The word “moisture” causes a visceral reaction in many, so why use it for the name of a comedy/varieté festival? “It just struck us as funny for some reason,” said Ron Bailey, one of the original organizers and current producers of the Moisture Festival. “Half the people hated it, and half the people loved it. If it causes that much of a stir, it must be a good name.” This year, it may as well be called a love fest, though (and no, not the—ick—moist variety). According to Bailey, the producers wanted to give all the performers who have supported the festival over the past five years—from aerialists, jugglers, and comedians to burlesque performers, can-can dancers, and musicians—the chance to be in it this year, and they’re also giving a big nod to their tireless volunteers who keep the festival’s wheels a-turnin’. And aside from the late-night shows, April 3-6 at ACT, it’s a family affair—so no need to bring a towel for all the moisture or to shield the kids’ eyes. Hale’s Palladium, 4301 Leary Way N.W., and ACT, Seventh Avenue and Union Street, www.moisturefestival.org. $5-$20. Thurs., March 27-Sun., April 12. JEN HARPER

Wednesdays-Sundays. Starts: March 27. Continues through April 12, 2008