Kansas City is gearing up for its first-ever Black Comedy Festival, promising a weekend filled with laughter, entertainment, and community engagement. The Black Comedy Fest KC takes place from April 25 to April 28 in the historic 18th and Vine Jazz District.
“This is a time for us to show representation in the comedy industry in Kansas City and provide a space for Black creatives to showcase their talents and network,” said Hilari Holt, founder and executive director of BCFKC. “We invite comedy lovers from all over to come laugh, relax, and be entertained by what these artists have to offer.”
The festival aims to spotlight Black comedic talent from across the nation, providing a platform for sketch artists, stand-up comedians, and improv performers to showcase their unique comedic styles.
The festival’s lineup includes an impressive array of headliners, including improv duo Nnamdi & Patrick from Los Angeles members of the acclaimed 3Peat group from Chicago. Local talents like Janell Banks from Kansas City and Vincent Bryant from St. Louis will also grace the stage during the festivities.
The festival features comedy showcases and workshops, offering aspiring comedians and enthusiasts the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and hone their comedic skills. Tickets and more information are available at bcfkansascity.com.
Schedule of Shows:
Thursday, April 25th
- BLK: A “mini” Showcase
- Doors 7 p.m. Show 7:30 p.m.
- The GEM Theater
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
Friday, April 26th
- BCFKC Standup Showcase
- Doors 6:30 p.m. Show 7 p.m.
- The GEM Theater
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
- BCFKC featuring Janell Banks
- Doors 8:15 p.m. Show 8:30 p.m.
- The GEM Theater
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
- BCFKC Late Night Showcase
- Doors 9:45 p.m. Show 10 p.m.
- The GEM Theater
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
Saturday, April 27th
- BCFKC Open Mic
- Show 1 – 3 p.m.
- The Bird Comedy Theater
- Free
- BCFKC Live – The Kimology Show
- Doors 4:30 p.m. Show 5 p.m.
- Black Archives of Mid-America
- Free community show, donations accepted
- BCFKC Digital Sketch Showcase
- Doors 6:30 p.m. Show 7 p.m.
- Black Archives of Mid-America
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
- BCFKC Early Night Showcase
- Doors 5 p.m. Show 5:30 p.m.
- The Mutual Musicians Foundation
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
- BCFKC featuring Nnamdi & Patrick
- Doors 8 p.m. Show 8:30 p.m.
- The Mutual Musicians Foundation
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
- Shots & Giggles featuring Vincent Bryant
- Doors 9:45 p.m. Show 10 p.m.
- The Mutual Musicians Foundation
- Tickets $15 bit.ly/BlackComedyKC
Workshops Schedule:
In addition to live performances, the Black Comedy Festival KC will offer enriching workshops aimed at fostering comedic talent and creativity.
Friday, April 26th
- “Sketch With Kat” – Sketch Writing with Katherene Garry
- 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- The Blue Room
- Cost: Free (8 cap) – All Skill Levels Welcome
- Registration: Sign Up Here
- “The Benefits of Laughter” with Janell Banks
- 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Incubator at the American Jazz Museum
- Cost: $35 (20 cap)
- Registration: Sign Up Here
Saturday, April 27th
- “Make A Move” Improv Workshop with Nnamdi Ngwe
- 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Mutual Musicians Foundation
- Cost: $45 (14 cap)
- Registration: Sign Up Here
- “Fast and Fun” Improv Workshop with Patrick Rowland
- 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Venue: Mutual Musicians Foundation
- Cost: $45 (14 cap)
- Registration: Sign Up Here
