Circle Round

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.

A live recording at The Aladdin Theater in Portland features a creation story from Filipino legends, showcasing a friendship between the sea and the sky disrupted by a trickster. Follow Kite, the sea eagle, on a journey to find rest in a world without land, leading to a mischievous plan. Deception and chaos unfold as Sky, Sea, and Kite become entangled in lies, culminating in a turbulent confrontation. The sea and sky reconcile, promising honesty and support, with listeners invited to share their favorite stories and artwork.

A live recording at The Parkway Theater in Minneapolis tells a Cambodian folktale about a merchant's clever solution to a shady dilemma involving a water buffalo's shadow. The story emphasizes lessons of kindness, generosity, and resolving conflicts with wit.

A clever rabbit persuades a hungry leopard to build a house together using natural materials. Their unlikely partnership faces tension when the leopard considers eating the rabbit's noisy baby bunnies. The rabbit outsmarts the leopard by pretending to be fierce hunters, showcasing strategy and wit.

Samin Nosrat, Hrishikesh Hirway, and Josh Malina star in a tale about Misery coming to life. Olexandra faces challenges and outsmarts Misery, finding fortune. Listeners share their favorite Circle Round stories, showcasing diverse characters and lessons.

Carra Patterson stars in a Japanese folktale about generosity and greed. The story focuses on a woman named Raina and her mother, a talking tree, and a ship-building plan. Children share their favorite Circle Round stories and moments, highlighting memorable details and cherished aspects of the tales.

Broadway performers Bret Shuford and Stephen Hanna act out a tale of farmers facing financial struggles and the temptations of a magic blue pebble. The story explores themes of honesty, transformation, and the consequences of deceitful acts. Listeners are also teased with exciting news about live performances and invited to join the Circle Round Club for exclusive perks.