Symphony Space Announces 2015-2016 Just Kidding Lineup

Symphony Space, the multi-arts performance center on the Upper West Side, presents the fall and winter 2015-16 season of its family entertainment series Just Kidding. The programming takes everything the organization does for adults—music, literature, theater, and dance—and tailors it for its younger audiences.

The season runs every year from October through March, with new performances every weekend, including sketch comedy, puppetry, music, and dance performances. “This is what differentiates us from other programs,” says Darren Critz, director of performing arts programs, is that “our dedicated audiences can come every weekend and see something totally new.”

Just Kidding is geared toward children ages 2 and older, but engages the whole family. Its “not commercial stuff, and parents would love to come and see the shows. People trust that they’re going to see good things here,” Critz says.

Upcoming highlights include Justin Roberts Unplugged on Saturday, Nov. 14, and Rennie Harris RHAW on Saturday, Dec. 12, both at 11am. Plan your visit to Just Kidding, and purchase tickets advance because shows do sell out, Critz advises. Tickets range from $13-$18.    

This season at Symphony Space also offers Thalia Kids’ Book Club, an interactive series for older kids and tweens, which connects well-known children and young-adult authors with their fans, inspiring a new generation of avid readers. This season features New York Times bestselling authors Rick Riordan and Brian Selznick, as well as Jon Scieszka, R.J. Palacio, and Rebecca Stead. There is also a celebratory event in tribute to Beverly Cleary on April 3. Tickets are $15 each, $12 for Symphony Space members. 

Main photo: Young fans enjoying a Just Kidding concert at Symphony Space last season
Main photo by Saskia Kahn