Circle Round Podcast Episode Summary: "Dancing to a Different Tune"

Podcast Information

• Title: Circle Round
• Host/Author: WBUR
• Episode: Dancing to a Different Tune
• Release Date: November 26, 2024
• Description: Circle Round adapts folktales from around the world into engaging radio plays for children and families, exploring themes like kindness, persistence, and generosity. Each episode concludes with an activity to inspire deeper conversations between children and adults.

Introduction to "Dancing to a Different Tune"

In the November 26, 2024 episode titled "Dancing to a Different Tune," host Rebecca Shear narrates a heartfelt folktale inspired by Brazilian storytelling traditions. The story delves into themes of passion, loss, and the transformative power of music. Accompanied by the talented three-time Grammy Award-winning violinist Hilary Hahn, who both voices the main character and performs on the violin, the episode weaves a rich tapestry of sound and emotion to captivate listeners of all ages.

Story Overview

Luciana's Life and Passion for Music

The tale begins with Luciana, a young girl living with her father, Lucio, on a modest farm. Their home is a peaceful countryside setting with crops, an orchard, and a flock of sheep. Among her various chores, Luciana delights most in herding the sheep, as evidenced by her cheerful commands:

• Luciana (03:21): "Come along Tulip and Petunia. You too Magnolia and Bluebell. There are some yummy dandelions just over this hill. Your fluff balls are going to love them."

Despite her content life, Luciana harbors a deep passion for music, especially the violin. Her dreams of owning and playing the violin remain unfulfilled due to financial constraints:

• Luciana (04:03): "Are you serious? You want me to buy a violin?"

Her father, Lucio, acknowledges her passion and imparts a heartfelt wish before his passing:

• Lucio (04:24): "Luciana, you are the apple of my eye, the light of my life. But I believe I'm drawing closer to the end of that life."
• Lucio (05:21): "Having a violin has always been your dream, has it not? And to be honest, buying one for you has always been my dream."

Luciana's Journey with the Violin

After Lucio's death, Luciana honors his final request by selling part of the farm to purchase a violin. Her initial attempts at playing are fraught with uncertainty, but her dedication transforms her into a skilled musician. Her music, though beautiful, carries a melancholic undertone reflecting her grief:

• Luciana (08:15): "I need to find some work and bring in some cash. In my wildest dreams, I would become a professional musician and earn money doing something I love. But let's face it, there aren't exactly a ton of opportunities for a violinist out here in the country."

Seeking solace, Luciana plays her violin outdoors, inadvertently enchanting her flock of sheep:

• Luciana (09:11): "Well, if you fluffballs really want to cut a rug, this melancholy music will never do. I think it's finally time to try something different."

Her shift to joyful melodies transforms the sheep into dancing companions, triggering a magical parade that extends beyond the farm:

• Luciana (13:01): "Oh, so we're going to have a little parade, are we? Or a big parade, more like. Either way, follow me."

Encounter with the Royal Palace

The musical procession catches the attention of the royal palace, where a weary king seeks a remedy for his sorrowful daughter, the princess. Impressed by Luciana's ability to evoke joy through music, the king invites her to perform, leading to a pivotal moment:

• King (14:06): "Welcome to the palace, my friends. You must be the most entertaining visitors we have ever received."
• King (15:01): "Haven't you heard? It's been years since the princess left. Ever since her mother died, my daughter has been melancholy, full of sorrow."

Luciana's performance brings genuine laughter and happiness to the princess, fulfilling the king's long-standing wish. In gratitude, the king offers Luciana patronage, enabling her to pursue her musical dreams:

• King (17:29): "You've done it. You've made my daughter laugh. Tell me, O talented one, what reward do you wish to have?"
• Luciana (17:47): "Honestly, your Majesty, the one thing my heart desires is music. I long to make music my livelihood, earning my daily bread by playing and performing and sharing my music with the world."

Key Quotes and Moments

• Lucio's Blessing:
  "Having a violin has always been your dream, has it not? And to be honest, buying one for you has always been my dream." (05:21)
  Lucio's loving encouragement sets the stage for Luciana's transformative journey.

• Luciana's Determination:
  "I need to find some work and bring in some cash. In my wildest dreams, I would become a professional musician and earn money doing something I love." (08:15)
  This quote highlights Luciana's resolve to follow her passion despite challenges.

• Magic of Music:
  "Well, if you fluffballs really want to cut a rug, this melancholy music will never do. I think it's finally time to try something different." (09:11)
  Luciana's decision to change her music leads to a cascade of magical events.

• King's Desperate Plea:
  "Haven't you heard? It's been years since the princess left. Ever since her mother died, my daughter has been melancholy, full of sorrow." (15:01)
  The king's words reveal the depth of the princess's sadness and the kingdom's need for joy.

• Luciana's Wish:
  "Honestly, your Majesty, the one thing my heart desires is music. I long to make music my livelihood, earning my daily bread by playing and performing and sharing my music with the world." (17:47)
  Luciana's heartfelt request underscores the episode's theme of following one's passion.

Insights and Themes

"Dancing to a Different Tune" explores several poignant themes:

• Passion and Perseverance: Luciana's unwavering dedication to her dream of playing the violin, despite financial hardships and personal loss, exemplifies the importance of pursuing one's passions.

• Healing Power of Music: The story vividly illustrates how music can heal emotional wounds and bring joy not only to the musician but also to those around them, including animals and royalty.

• Transformation through Creativity: Luciana's musical evolution from melancholic strains to lively melodies symbolizes personal growth and the ability to transform sorrow into happiness through creativity.

• Community and Connection: The magical parade of animals and the princess's restored joy highlight the significance of community and the connections forged through shared experiences.

Activity: Share Your Passion

Following the story, Rebecca Shear invites listeners to engage in a creative activity:

"Find some paper and draw a picture of you and your passion. When you're finished, share it with someone you have fun with."

This activity encourages children to reflect on their interests and fosters meaningful conversations with adults, reinforcing the episode's themes of passion and expression.

Behind the Scenes

• Adaptation and Production:
  The episode was adapted by Rebecca Shear with contributions from composer and sound designer Eric Shimalonis. Dean Russell served as the editor, while Sabina Hahn provided the episode's artwork, including a downloadable coloring page available on the Circle Round website.

• Featured Talent:
  Hilary Hahn not only voiced Luciana but also performed the violin pieces that brought the story to life, enhancing the immersive experience for listeners.

Listener Engagement

The episode concludes with heartfelt messages from young listeners sharing their favorite "Circle Round" stories, demonstrating the podcast's impact and fostering a sense of community among its audience.

Conclusion

"Dancing to a Different Tune" is a beautifully crafted episode of "Circle Round" that seamlessly blends storytelling, music, and life lessons. It underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the universal language of music in overcoming grief and inspiring joy. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this episode offers a moving narrative that resonates across ages, encouraging everyone to follow their passions and share their gifts with the world.

Join the Circle Round Community

If you enjoyed this episode, consider joining the Circle Round Club for exclusive content, early access to live events, and more. Share your passions and creations with the community, and continue to be inspired by stories from around the globe.