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Mike Lebovitz |
The lineup:
Mike Lebovitz hosted the whole damn thing, more than earning his drink tickets.
Followed by Ever Mainard, Jeff Garlin, Dave Stinton, Mike Stanley, Kyle Kinane, Dan Telfer, Eddie Pepitone, James Fritz, Junior Stopka, and Adam Burke
Then Short Films by:
Paul Thomas, Elizabeth McQuern, Daniel Kibblesmith and C.J. Sullivan/Sean Flannery/Chad Briggs.
Topped off with Special Guests Pete Holmes and Hannibal Burress.
Keep in mind this was the opening night. I hope the festival organizers take notice. The smaller venues are just as capable of putting on a great show. This was proof to me that JFL Chicago thing could turn into Montreal or Aspen or some other festival that I haven’t heard of or been to.
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Ever Mainard |
The intermingling of national acts with our local talent was the most exciting part of this year’s fest. Watching James Fritz and Junior Stopka follow Eddie Pepitone. Seeing Dan Telfer appear alongside Patton Oswalt and Aziz Ansari at the 826 Benefit at The Hideout. And that’s what will shape the outside perspective of the Chicago comedy scene. Being on the same stage as the big hitters and making them appear mortal. I can’t wait till next year.
Contributing Writer
Cole Moser