Mini-Festival of Storytelling and Music

September 30, 2023 from 11AM - 1PM

Cancelled Due to Flooding in Central Park.
Watch for possible New Date

The Hans Christian Andersen Story Telling Center is pleased to be back in Central Park for storytelling for all ages. This is our 65th year at the Andersen Statue, and on September 30 we will celebrate the birthday of the Duckling, an annual event for all ages, featuring some of the best storytellers from New York and around the world.

Linda Humes will tell African Tales
accompanied by drummer Sanga of the Valley
• Laura Simms will tell Andersen’s iconic story of The Ugly Duckling,
accompanied by Met violinist Shem Guiborny
• Therese Plair will tell a version of Andersen’s tale The Flying Trunk
• Philadelphia-based mime and storyteller Ed Stivender
will tell Andersen’s There is a Difference
• And there will be many other storytellers on hand for a village storytelling event, including
Usha Venkatraman from India,
Valentina Ortiz from Mexico and
Robin Bady from Brooklyn.

On summer Saturdays since 1956, New York children have gathered around Hans Christian Andersen's statue at the Conservatory Pond in Central Park to hear his tales told by a fine ensemble of storytellers.
Fairy and Folk Tales From Around The World!
For Audiences of All Ages

JUNE 2023

DATE

STORYTELLERS

STORIES

STORIES ORIGIN

JULY 2023

AUGUST 2023

SEPTEMBER 30, 2023

11AM - 1PM

DUCKLING'S BIRTHDAY PARTY

The annual celebration of the DUCKLING'S BIRTHDAY PARTY.
Hear Andersen tales, and global stories, with music, in honor of beauty and kindness.

Storytelling at the Hans Christian Andersen Statue in Central Park has been an iconic New York City tradition since 1956. Children and adults of all ages are transported into worlds within worlds as they listen to a talented ensemble of storytellers presenting fairytales, folk stories, and true-life stories that showcase the richness and diversity of cultures from around the world. This return of live storytelling at the Hans Christian Andersen statue symbolizes hope, joy and resilience. It also is a renewed commitment to fostering imagination, community, and love of New York, while celebrating diversity and kindness. This beautiful outdoor setting offers a unique opportunity for families and individuals to spend quality time engaged in narratives away from electronic devices. Attendees can immerse themselves in the art of story telling while enjoying the beauty of the open air in Central Park, making meaningful connections, and creating lasting memories. Our mini-festival on September 30 marks the conclusion of our Summer 2023 season in the Park.
Our programs are offered free of charge!
Join us! Let your imagination soar!.

The history of Hans Christian Andersen's Statue

More than sixty summers in New York City's Central Park

Support

If you and the children in your life enjoy our free storytelling sessions in Central Park, please consider making a donation to ensure the continued survival of the program. Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling Center is a not for profit corporation with 501(c)(3) status. Donations of $25 or above will receive a formal receipt.