

Circle Round
WBUR
Created and produced by parents of young children, WBUR's Circle Round adapts carefully-selected folktales from around the world into sound- and music-rich radio plays for kids ages 3-103. Each 15 to 25-minute episode explores important issues like kindness, persistence and generosity. And each episode ends with an activity that inspires a deeper conversation between children and grown-ups.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 31, 2024 • 20min
Encore: Three Clever Brothers
Alexandra Billings (Transparent, Paddleton) stars in a North African, Middle Eastern and central and north-central Asian folktale about the power of a keen eye and a quick mind.

Dec 24, 2024 • 19min
Encore: Getting Skunked
Terrence Terrell (B Positive, Giants) stars in this Abenaki tale about a gentle giant who brings night and day to the world, and gives a certain striped critter its telltale scent.

Dec 17, 2024 • 27min
The Peach of Life
A devoted queen searches for a legendary wizard to save her ailing daughter, exploring profound themes of maternal love and hope. The tale follows siblings Summer, Autumn, and Winter on a humorous and adventurous quest for the magical 'peach of life.' As they face challenges, the importance of teamwork and the strength of family bonds shine through. Listeners also hear delightful recounts of favorite stories from young fans, celebrating the power of narratives and their emotional connections.

Dec 10, 2024 • 27min
The Wild Goose Chase
Recorded live at Symphony Space with a star-studded cast, this magical tale inspired by Ukrainian and Russian lore follows a kindly tailor as he embarks on an unforgettable chase.

Dec 3, 2024 • 25min
Encore: The Most Fabulous Fur of All
Q'orianka Kilcher, known for her roles in Yellowstone and Dora and the Lost City of Gold, lends her talent to a whimsical Cherokee tale featuring a jealous rabbit and an otter with a fabulous fur coat. The story unravels a playful rivalry as animals compete for attention, leading Rabbit to hatch a clever yet sneaky plan. An adventurous night on the mountainside spirals into chaos, especially when Rabbit dons a disguise for a fur contest. Listeners are treated to humor, rivalry, and important lessons about envy and identity!

Nov 26, 2024 • 23min
Dancing to a Different Tune
In a heartwarming tale, Luciana, a young girl, sells her family farm to pursue her passion for the violin after the loss of her father. Her enchanting melodies not only bring joy to animals but also uplift a sad princess, earning the king's support. As Luciana inspires others to chase their artistic dreams, listeners are encouraged to engage in their creative pursuits. The episode wraps up with fan favorites and exciting perks for those who join a special club, enhancing the community spirit.

Nov 19, 2024 • 25min
The Caged Bird
Dive into a mesmerizing tale of a young prince and a colorful parrot, exploring deep themes of freedom and captivity. As the prince learns about the joys and complexities of attachment, the parrot's yearning for liberation unfolds. A gripping conversation between a king and a parrot reveals surprising connections and emotional truths. The narrative heats up when a seemingly lifeless parrot awakens, highlighting the power of freedom over luxury. Ultimately, listeners are invited to reflect on the essence of freedom through imaginative dialogue.

Nov 12, 2024 • 20min
A World of Music
Jon Huertas, known for his roles in This Is Us and Castle, leads a captivating Aztec legend about the birth of music. The tale opens in a world devoid of sound, emphasizing music's essential role in human connection. Huertas narrates the Wind God's quest to liberate imprisoned musicians from the Sun God, culminating in a powerful clash between joy and authority. The story highlights the transformative power of creativity, inspiring listeners to celebrate music’s freedom and its unifying force in our lives.

Nov 5, 2024 • 17min
In the Wolf’s Mouth
Jennifer Hale, a prolific voice actress famous for her roles in X-Men '97 and Star Wars, lends her talent to a captivating Portuguese folktale. The story dives into the encounter between a cunning owl and a dominating wolf, exploring themes of courage and cleverness. Hale highlights the importance of wit over mere strength as the owl outsmarts the proud predator. The podcast also engages listeners by sharing their favorite stories, creating a vibrant community around the art of storytelling.

Oct 29, 2024 • 28min
The All-Wish Stick
In this captivating narrative, Amy Tsang, known for her roles in Star Wars: The Acolyte and Kung Fu, brings to life Faye's enchanting journey. The story revolves around a magical flute granting wishes to those with honest hearts. Listeners are treated to Faye's underwater adventure after meeting a giant crab summons her to the Dragon King’s palace. As she explores her newfound powers, the significance of sincerity in wishes is hilariously highlighted. Faye’s transformation showcases the delightful chaos that ensues when desires collide with reality.