Circle Round: The Zodiac Twelve

Release Date: January 28, 2025
Host: Rebecca Shear
Produced by: WBUR

Introduction

In the January 28, 2025 episode of Circle Round, titled "The Zodiac Twelve", host Rebecca Shear delves into the origins of the Chinese Zodiac through a captivating folktale adapted by Tai Ma and Jimmy Wang. Aimed at children ages 3-103, the story unfolds with rich soundscapes and engaging performances by a star-studded cast, including veteran actors like Tai Ma and Jimmy Wong.

The Jade Emperor's Challenge

The story begins with the Jade Emperor, the supreme ruler of Heaven and Earth, seeking a method to keep track of time beyond natural observations. At [00:38], Rebecca narrates:

"According to the Chinese calendar, this week marks the start of a new year, the Year of the Snake... if you're born in the year of the snake, for instance, you're said to be especially intelligent and mysterious."

Faced with the challenge of selecting twelve animals and determining their order, the Jade Emperor devises a solution:

"I shall hold a race. I shall invite all of the animals to compete. The first 12 to reach the finish line will earn their own place in the Zodiac." ([03:51])

The Great Zodiac Race Begins

On the morning of the race, animals of all kinds gather at the Jade Emperor's palace. The racecourse is set to traverse a deep rolling valley, climb grassy hills, and culminate at a wide, fast-flowing river. The Emperor announces the rules and signals the start:

"On your mark, get set, go." ([05:43])

A vibrant mix of feathers, fur, and scales dash towards the valley, but Rat, Cat, and Ox quickly take the lead.

Rat, Ox, and Cat: A Tale of Friendship and Betrayal

As the trio approaches the river, Rat and Cat, realizing their limitations in swimming compared to Ox's strength, hatch a plan:

Cat: "We'll ride on your back as you swim across the river... we'll let you know to put on some speed." ([06:36])

Ox, ever agreeable, agrees to assist them. However, as they near the shore, Rat betrays Cat:

Rat: "Where is it? I don't see it." ([08:18])

He abruptly disembarks, racing to the finish line and securing the first position. The Jade Emperor congratulates him:

"Congratulations, Rat. You are the first animal to reach the finish line." ([09:19])

Ox arrives second, earning his place despite feeling slighted by Rat's deceit. Cat, left in the water, realizes her betrayal as Rat takes the lead, setting the stage for the enduring enmity between cats and rats.

Other Notable Racers: Tiger and Rabbit

Tiger arrives third, overcoming a dangerous whirlpool:

"I used every ounce of strength I had to break free from the spinning water and make it to safety." ([11:12])

Rabbit secures fourth place by ingeniously hopping across slippery rocks and eventually floating to shore on a log after a mishap:

"As I was thrashing and splashing around, what should I spy drifting my way but this log... it floated me all the way to the finish line." ([13:21])

The Fifth to Twelfth Positions: Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig

After a brief sponsor break, the race resumes with additional animals crossing the finish line:

• Dragon arrives fifth, demonstrating generosity by diverting to help a drought-stricken village and assisting Rabbit:

  Dragon: "I conjured a breeze and blew a big, sturdy log your way." ([18:15])

• Snake slithers in sixth, maintaining his mysterious reputation:

  "I have always been known as a mysterious soul." ([19:05])

• Horse gallops in seventh, favoring speed over swimming:

  "I figured out a nice shallow spot to cross and ran the rest of the way." ([19:40])

• Goat, Monkey, and Rooster secure eighth, ninth, and tenth places by collaborating to build a raft:

  Rooster: "We didn't build this raft, but we formed a team to navigate it." ([21:19])

• Dog arrives eleventh, playfully delaying his finish due to enjoying the water:

  "The water was so cool and refreshing... I lost track of time." ([23:09])

• Pig crosses twelfth, embodying generosity and care:

  Pig: "Did I win? And who wants to join me for dinner?" ([24:07])

Conclusion: Rat's Betrayal and Lasting Rivalry

As the race concludes, Cat confronts Rat over his deceit:

Cat: "You betrayed me. And now you're gonna pay." ([25:55])

Rat narrowly escapes, solidifying the age-old rivalry between cats and rats. The Jade Emperor finalizes the Zodiac cycle, honoring all twelve animals for their unique traits and contributions.

Activity and Listener Engagement

At the episode's end, Rebecca encourages listeners to engage with the story through creative activities:

"Ask a grown up to help you find your Animal of the Zodiac... draw a picture of your zodiac animal." ([25:55])

Listeners are invited to share their artwork via email, with the possibility of being featured in the Lion's Roar newsletter.

Final Thoughts

"The Zodiac Twelve" episode of Circle Round not only narrates the enchanting origin of the Chinese Zodiac but also imparts valuable lessons on friendship, perseverance, and integrity. Through immersive storytelling and memorable characters, Rebecca Shear and her talented cast bring the timeless folktale to life, making it accessible and enjoyable for audiences of all ages.

Credits:
Adapted by Rebecca Shear
Edited by Dean Russell
Original Music and Sound Design by Eric Shimalonis
Artwork by Sabina Hahn
Featuring Actors: Evan Casey, Paul Date, Alyssa Keane, James Konicek, Shelley Lee, Erica Rose, Chris Tucci, Dawn Ursula, Ty Ma, Jimmy Wong

Listen to more episodes and explore additional resources at: WBUR.org/CircleRound