Circle Round

Join Duchess Sarah Ferguson, known for her captivating storytelling, and actress Suzie McGrath, famed for her animated roles, as they bring to life a heartwarming folktale about leadership and empathy. They discuss the themes of wisdom versus authority, following a princess on her quest to prove her worthiness. Notable moments include the princess's clever rescue of a bee and her resourceful solutions to daunting royal challenges. It's a delightful blend of adventure and invaluable lessons on kindness and cleverness.

Jonica Booth (Rap Stuff, Bad Girls Club) and Jay Pharoah (Out of Office, Saturday Night Live) co-star in this West African tale about a clothing-obsessed goddess and a crafty, colorful chameleon. Sign up for our monthly newsletter, "The Lion's Roar", here.

Dive into a captivating Haitian and Creole tale featuring farmers Jean and Claude, who face financial woes after their horse disappears. They humorously negotiate a horse rental with their wealthy neighbor, Pierre, but help arrives in the form of a clever carpenter named Marie. A series of comical hijinks ensues as they navigate a horse's carrying capacity and market day debates. Ultimately, unexpected friendships bloom, sparking listener imagination through imaginative storytelling and shared favorite moments.

A live performance features a queen and her whimsical price maker, blending laughter with lessons on fairness. The price master crafts ridiculous valuations, creating a humorous atmosphere as greed takes the stage. Clever disguises and surprising twists unfold when two gentlemen attempt to trick the queen over a cup of rice. As the tale concludes, themes of deception are unmasked, leading to valuable insights about worth. Listeners even share their favorite stories, fostering a community of shared adventures.

A farmer's quest to find his missing magical cow, Bukotla, leads him into a dark cave filled with tension and heartache. As he faces comedic ogres in pursuit, laughter ensues alongside the thrill of adventure. Bukotla’s enchanting abilities turn danger into creativity, showcasing how love and resilience can guide one through challenges. Children joyfully share their favorite tales from the series, reminding us all of the deep connections stories can nurture. It's a lively blend of humor, magic, and heartfelt storytelling.

Recorded live at The Athenaeum Center in Chicago, IL, this tale with East Asian and Egyptian roots pits a proud king against a sharp-witted schoolteacher who proves she's nobody's fool. Sign up for our monthly newsletter, "The Lion's Roar", here.

Explore a whimsical tale rooted in Iraqi Jewish tradition, where a woodcutter hilariously navigates the challenges of finding his lost goat in a giant's domain. Encounter a playful giantess who champions a vegetarian lifestyle, sparking comedic banter. As the plot thickens, the characters devise a clever escape plan and delve into the quest for magical shoes, learning valuable lessons about kindness and cooperation. Join in creative activities and hear heartfelt reflections from listeners about their favorite vibrant stories.

Dive into a captivating tale rooted in Lebanese and Palestinian folklore, where a queen disguises herself to discover her kingdom's true beauty. Amidst heartwarming encounters, themes of agency and emotional fulfillment emerge. Jealousy brews in the royal court as a new minister faces the plotting chief minister. A thrilling betrayal unfolds in the treasury, revealing deep loyalties. Ultimately, the queen fosters community and gratitude, leaving listeners inspired to cherish their loved ones.

Join siblings Olga and Boris as they navigate their quirky personalities on a family farm and their clash over chores. Discover the contrasting views on winter's gifts, revealing its surprising agricultural benefits. When Olga tumbles into a mysterious well, she finds herself in Granny Snowstorm's magical garden, leading to a delightful transformation in her village. Boris’s yearning for treasure results in an unexpected lesson in compassion. Listeners also share their favorite enchanting stories, celebrating the magic of storytelling.

Experience a lively retelling of a heartwarming Japanese tale about a young boy trying to buy a ceramic dog for his mother. Encounter his struggles and determination, aided by a wise judge against a greedy shopkeeper. Enjoy whimsical courtroom negotiations filled with clever dialogue that highlight justice and kindness. The finale celebrates community spirit, inviting listeners to share their own favorite stories, creating a heartwarming connection between the audience and the performers.