Sketch Comedy, Indie Music and Dance Come to Symphony Space in October

The acclaimed Upper West Side institution provides a reliable boredom-busting venue for eclectic, all-ages live experiences; the 2017-18 season launches on October 7.

Tickets to all upcoming Just Kidding performances are available now.

Using stories submitted by children, the Story Pirates create outlandishly funny sketches and mini-musicals that leave kids and their parents howling in the aisles. Whether it's following the adventures of a superhero baby, or reminiscing about disposable rain ponchos at a baseball game, the songs and stories explode with the creative energy that only a child could possess. Learn more about the Story Pirates at their website: http://storypirates.org/

The Moonlights are collaboration between two songwriters and family music luminaries, Rachel Loshak (who has performed and collaborated on projects with Norah Jones, Moby, and Natalie Merchant as well as Gustafer Yellowgold) and GRAMMY-winning producer and Dog on Fleas performer, Dean Jones. Their sophisticated and spare musical arrangements shine, with whimsical, evocative lyrics that convey the wonder and appreciation of our natural world. Layers of instrumentation and voicings enhance the messages of each of their songs. Find about more about The Moonlights at www.themoonlightsmusic.com.

A yearly favorite with Just Kidding audiences, NDI returns to present an afternoon of young people dancing for families. This year's performance includes selections from NDI's 2017 Event of the Year, "Harlem Night Song," directed by Bianca Johnson. Through dance and music, NDI will bring to life the work of Jacob Lawrence, Duke Ellington, Florence Mills, Fats Waller, and Hector LaVoe. NDI dancers will stomp at the Savoy, salute the Harlem Hellfighters, cheer for Joe Louis, and shuffle along at the Hoofers Club. Founded by ballet star Jacques d'Amboise, National Dance Institute (NDI), has transformed the lives of more than 2 million children through award-winning arts and learning programs, and through their spectacular and colorful public performances for more than 40 years. The Celebration Team dancers are youth ages 9 to 15, drawn from schools throughout the NYC metro area. Learn more at nationaldance.org.

A fan favorite at Symphony Space, Brooklynite Joanie Leeds' tuneful melodies and rich, funny and thoughtful child-respecting lyrics give depth and irresistible zip to ditties about the East River Ferry, subway rides, Yiddish catch phrases and the hilarious "Hipster in the Making." Joanie and harmony-driven trio plan to perform "Confusing Costume" and other hits, plus new songs from the latest album "Brooklyn Baby." Fans are invited to come in costume for a chance to win a copy of the CD. Learn more about Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights at www.joanieleeds.com.