David Blanchard
creator/event organizer
A former movie trailer editor working in the film industry in Los Angeles, David has been a huge Ferris Bueller/John Hughes fan since the 1980s. As someone who enjoys exploring movie locations, and with a 2015-conceived plan of merely having a group of friends come together to share a small private bus tour of all FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF filming sites, David’s idea blossomed. Asking the curious question, “Why in 2016 isn’t anyone acknowledging FERRIS BUELLER with some kind of 30th anniversary event?”, an expansive concept took shape and became the immersive movie experience, FERRIS FEST.
Andy Jack
Chicago logistics coordinator
Born, raised, and educated in the Chicagoland area, this 80s kid resonated with John Hughes' portrait of the American adolescent. Andy has made a hobby out of tracking down John Hughes movie memorabilia and movie filming locations - right down to the exact seats where Ferris, Cameron, and Sloane sat for their Cubs game. Andy credits Hughes' compassionate portrayal of teens as an inspiration in his 18-year career working as a licensed professional counselor. Andy lives in Wheaton, IL with his wife and two daughters who support his passion to take a day off once in a while.
Not a major company, corporation, or City of Chicago planner, this small independent group of passionate Ferris Bueller/John Hughes fans have banded together to present a viral pop culture celebration in honor of a movie they adore while placing the City of Chicago on a pedestal of genuine appreciation.
Madeline Smith
social media director
Madeline's apt social skills combined with her love of John Hughes movies are reaching out to, interacting with, and bringing a whole new generation of Ferris Bueller fans together for Ferris Fest. Music is a huge part of her life, and being a singer has deepened her love and appreciation for all types of music genres. She is thrilled to be part of this event.
Page background photo by Ben Roffelsen
Cindy Smith
event director
Cindy is a true product of the 80s; a huge John Hughes fan who loves introducing new generations to his films. She happily admits to getting a tear in her eye every time she sees Jake Ryan waiting for Samantha at the end of SIXTEEN CANDLES. Cindy began her entertainment career working in the music business, in PR and then artist management, later moving into film. Her career took a turn towards event planning which is a true passion. Cindy says combining one of her favorite 80s movies with this cool fan event is a blast!
Lee Ann Marie
dance production director
Lee Ann had been a professional dancer for six years in the 80’s before being cast as a dancing Fräulein on the parade float during the ‘Twist and Shout’ sequence in FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF. She was also a pro cheerleader for both the Chicago Bears and Chicago Bulls, plus co-starred and danced in the band Survivor’s #1 MTV video, “I Can’t Hold Back”, as well as Survivor founder Jim Peterik’s new music video, “Cold Blooded”, just last year. Lee Ann now manages her own company, Lee Ann Marie Productions (www.leeannmarieproductions.com), and is very excited to be reinventing the choreography for the event’s ‘Twist and Shout’ parade re-creation.
Steve Czarnecki
video team producer
Steve (#beyondthemarquee) was 13 when FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF came out and is one of his favorite films from the 80’s. A huge fan of the National Lampoon movies, THE BREAKFAST CLUB, WEIRD SCIENCE and HOME ALONE, the films of John Hughes influenced his growing up and provided the soundtrack of his cherished teen years. A seasoned Creative Content Producer in Los Angeles for his 'Beyond the Marquee' web-series on YouTube, Steve is no stranger to documenting all things Hollywood, both in front of and behind the cameras. He is excited for the opportunity to capture the magic and energy of FERRIS FEST.
