Category: Podcast

Storytime: The Runaway Beignet by Connie

The Chase is On!

If you’ve ever strolled by Jackson Square on a humid morning, you know that smell—the intoxicating, sugary scent of fresh fried dough and powdered sugar mixed wafting on the wind. But what happens when one of those delicious treats decides it’s not quite ready to be eaten?

Today on Confetti Park Storytime, we are sprinting through the streets of New Orleans alongside a very fast, very sugary character in “The Runaway Beignet,” written by the wonderful Connie Collins Morgan.

And –we are beyond thrilled to feature a very special narration of this tale. A huge Confetti Park thank you goes out to Connie for sharing her story and her voice to this episode.

A Louisiana Twist on a Classic Tale

We all know the story of the Gingerbread Man, but Connie has given this timeless fable a delicious Louisiana makeover. Instead of a gingerbread man running through a meadow, we have a feisty beignet darting past local landmarks, clever animals, and hungry onlookers.

It is a delightful romp that captures the rhythm and flavor of a street scene in the French Quarter. With its catchy “catch me if you can” singsong, a dash of bayou magic, and the charming illustrations (by Herb Leonhard) that bring the beignet to life, this is a story book you will read over and over again.

Thank You to Connie Collins Morgan

Hearing an author read their own work adds a layer of magic that you just can’t get anywhere else. Connie’s warmth and playful delivery make the Beignet’s escape feel more vivid than ever. We are so grateful she shared her time and her talent with our community of little dreamers and music lovers.

How to Listen

Ready to join the chase? You can catch Connie’s narration of The Runaway Beignet on our latest podcast episode!

Discover More: Check out Connie’s other work and grab a copy of the book at https://conniecollinsmorgan.com/

Listen Now:

Confetti Park Storytime is a family radio program and podcast out of New Orleans. We feature local authors and songs that celebrate the magic of childhood and the unique culture of the Gulf South.

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Storytime: Why He Carried the Turkey by James Baldwin

Hear ye! Hear ye! Good people are everywhere.

Happy Thanksgiving, friends! As we give thanks this week, let’s take a moment to celebrate the fact that kindness is all around us.

In every town, city, and corner of the world, there are good people spreading thoughtfulness, helpfulness, and a sprinkle of joy wherever they go. Isn’t that something to be thankful for?

This week on Confetti Park Storytime, we’re sharing an old Thanksgiving tale called “Why He Carried the Turkey.” It’s a charming story about John Marshall. John Marshall was the fourth Chief Justice of the United States and a pretty big deal in history. But this isn’t about courtrooms or gavels—it’s about a simple act of kindness that speaks volumes.

Written by James Baldwin, this story is a little gem that might make you think about humility, being a good neighbor, or just lending a helping hand. Or maybe it’s about all of those things wrapped up in one heartwarming package.

As Mr. Rogers so wisely said, “Look for the helpers.” They’re everywhere, and they remind us of two important things: who we should surround ourselves with (to feel one kind of joy) and how we can act to spread another kind of joy. True friends, true neighbors, and true kindness make the world a brighter, better place.

So, gather the family, cozy up, and let’s dive into this sweet story together. It’s a perfect reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave the biggest impressions.
Irma Thomas – A Childhood Music Memory

Irma Thomas, the “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” still remembers her first time singing on stage. It happened at New Star school in Greensburg, Louisiana, during a school play of Cinderella. Her teacher asked her to sing “Tennessee Waltz” for the audience.

Irma wasn’t nervous—she was excited. As she sang, she realized how much she loved performing. The applause she received made her feel proud and happy.

That first stage experience sparked Irma’s passion for musical performance. She may not recall every detail, but she’ll never forget how it felt to express herself through song! Her experience is a reminder that sometimes all it takes is one moment to discover something you love.

Thank you, dear Irma Thomas Jackson, for sharing this childhood music memory with Confetti Park.

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Louisiana artist Carole Gauthier Lancon – A Childhood Music Memory

Carole Gauthier Lancon is an artist, long-time arts educator and art therapist who lives in a small village called Parks, Louisiana on the banks of Bayou Teche. Originally from St. Martinville, Carole grew up in a family where art and art making were an everyday part of life.

She also had a musical childhood, and shares some wonderful and vivid memories of her piano teacher, Mrs. Evelyn.

Evelyn was an interesting woman and quite a character—she was a performer with an all-girls orchestra in the 1940s and was known as “Evelyn and her magic violin.”

Carole says, “She was just one awesome little bitty old lady who helped me out during a time when I was pre-teen. I’d walk down the street to her house every Thursday afternoon, sit down at the piano and she would accompany me on her cello. She always made me feel very special.

“I remember one particular afternoon…. Little girls love to be bullies….On the way down the street to her house, all of my friends were playing in the front yard with another classmate, and when they saw me coming down the street, they ran and hid in the backyard. So, I had to pass in front of the house, knowing they were back there.

When I got to Miss Evelyn’s I broke down and started crying, and she comforted me. She was more than a piano teacher. She was a really fine lady.”

Thank you, Carole, for sharing your sweet memory and for introducing us to “Evelyn and her magic violin!” What a terrific story.

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Chris Sheard – A Childhood Music Memory

Chris Sheard recalls going on car rides with the family and only having one cassette tape to listen to, over and over again!

In this childhood music memory, New Orleans musician Chris Sheard (Mr. Chris!) recalls going on car rides with the family and only having one cassette tape to listen to, over and over again. One side featured Marvin Gaye, and the other featured Sam Cooke.

The family would flip the tape over and over, and Chris learned every single word to every song by heart.

Chris ponders how children today have infinite options of music to listen to on demand, via Spotify and other internet apps. While there is amazing access to music for today, has something been lost in the overwhelming options?

Chris doesn’t comment on which time he thinks is better — then or now? But he is grateful for his own experiences. He will always recall those long road trips and deeply listening to Marvin and Sam singing.

Thank you, Mr. Chris, for sharing your memory with Confetti Park.

Christopher Sheard is a New Orleans-based musician and teacher with years in the field of early childhood music. He is the founder of Blue House Music, a direct-to-family early learning music program that serves children under five and their caregivers. He currently serves as the lower school music teacher at The McGehee School for Girls and Little Gate in uptown New Orleans.

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Clarinetist Doreen Ketchens – a Childhood Music Memory

In this episode of Confetti Park, Doreen Ketchens, one of New Orleans’ most beloved street buskers, shares a childhood memory… one about how music changed her life one unforgettable day at school.

Walking down Royal Street on a sunny afternoon, you are very likely to find Doreen Ketchens wailing on her clarinet, leading an enthusiastic band and delighting passersby with her vibrant personality and bold, joyful sound.

Doreen has been called “Queen Clarinet,” “the female Louis Armstrong,” and “Lady Louie.” She has a quick smile, an easygoing laugh and is always ready to entertain. She also has a dedication to promoting New Orleans culture and music.

Doreen and her family (including husband Lawrence, a tuba, trombone and piano player) have traveled the world and performed for numerous U.S. presidents. Their daughter Dorian is already a world-traveled jazz drummer.

“The teacher would ask one question. If you knew it, you passed, if you didn’t you failed…. I was destined for failure. I looked to the sky and said, ‘Oh God, if you get me out of this, I will do anything.’

About two minutes later the principal came on the loudspeaker and she said, ‘Anyone interested in joining the band, report to the band room immediately! And there I went!”

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Interview with The Chickadees, young songbirds from Shreveport

Meet the Chickadees, a trio of young musicians from Shreveport, Louisiana! These sensational ten-year-olds – Posy Harper, Evie Desobry and Ellie Spero – are a breath of fresh air to the local music scene with their infectious energy and impressive talent. Guided by their dedicated teacher, Miss Sandra Odom, the Chickadees are singing and strumming their way into the hearts of audiences.

[Katy: I first met the Chickadees at the gravesite of Huddie Ledbetter at our annual Lead Belly Graveside Jam in October 2024, and I’ve been following their band since then. Watch their performance of “Cottonfields” here!)]

The kids met at school (A.C. Steere) and were all music students studying under Sandra, and the band came together naturally. All play ukulele, but each member brings a unique flair to the project. Posy also plays bass, while Evie plays banjolini, which she likes for its distinct twang. Ellie has delightful stage presence and brings a yodeling twist to the group. Her rendition of “Lovesick Blues” is a showstopper!

The Chickadees’ set list is a sweet mix of timeless classics and contemporary hits. They perform a lot of Louisiana crowd pleasers (“Jambalaya,” “Louisiana Saturday Night”) as well as new songs by artists such as Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves. In the interview, each singer talks about why she picks a certain song to take lead on.

Watch Evie Desobry performing her solo, Emmylou

Watch Posy Harper performing her solo, Best Day

Despite their young age, these songbirds are seasoned performers, enchanting audiences at various venues and events around north Louisiana.

The Chickadees are enjoying their friendship through music — practice sessions double as fun playdates and sometimes even roll into sleepovers!

For other young aspiring musicians, the Chickadees have some advice: pick an instrument you love, find a supportive teacher, and practice, practice, practice until you hit those high notes!

Thank you, Miss Sandra and The Chickadees for sharing your talent with Confetti Park.

The Chickadees of Shreveport, La. feature (L-R) Ellie Spero, Posy Harper, and Evie Desobry. Their music teacher is Sandra Odom.

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Louis Michot – A Childhood Music Memory

The Cajun fiddler and singer for Lost Bayou Ramblers recalls learning to dance with his cousins while the family band played

Louis Michot, a talented fiddler and singer with the Grammy award winning Cajun band Lost Bayou Ramblers, shared a sweet childhood music memory with Confetti Park.

Growing up, Louis would often join his father and uncles’ band, Les Frères Michot, in the vibrant dance halls and restaurants of Lafayette. (Randalls, Mulates, Prejeans, etc.) It was there, amidst joyous community gatherings, that Louis learned to dance. He was only six or seven!

“I remember taking my cousins’ arms, Effie and Rebecca, and we’d switch off…..It was kind of magic. We’d stay on the dance floor all night.”

The spontaneous magic of dancing lively two-steps, waltzes and jitterbugs to the family band’s music left a lasting impression on Louis. It remains a fond memory that continues to inspire his love for music and performance today.

Thank you, Louis, for sharing this childhood music memory!

You can hear Les Frères Michot perform one of the songs Louis recalls from that time, “Two Step De Pilette,” in this interview.

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Interview with hrilina ♡ : Water Wonderful World

A new reading and coloring book about New Orleans’ relationship with water will entertain and educate!

Katy recently interviewed hrilina ♡, a rising leader among young New Orleanians, who is proud to announce the release of a unique educational coloring book titled “Water Wonderful World.”

Published by Trinity City Arts, the book explores the relationship we in South Louisiana have with water, particularly in and around New Orleans.

hrilina ♡’s vision for this book was to create an engaging and fun experience for kids (and grownups) that teaches about the role of water in New Orleans—from providing livelihoods to being an essential part of our recreation. The book also faces the challenges of coastal erosion and rising waters. In fact, it was funded through Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund and supported by Mayor Latoya Cantrell’s office and the City of New Orleans.

“One of my favorite New Orleans Easter eggs in the book is on page six, where everything in the garden bed is a Louisiana export,” says hrilina ♡. “It’s Water Wonderful World, and it’s about the unique relationship that we New Orleanians have with water. But it’s also about how our waters matter to the world, and why people should care about our waters and issues relating to our waters.”

“Water Wonderful World” stands out not only for its content but also for its collaborative creation process. The artwork in “Water Wonderful World” was created by three talented teenaged illustrators from New Orleans: Lauren Landers, Zion Mercadel, and London Salvant. Each brings their distinct style to the pages. (They represent local arts programs such as New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), YAYA, and Morris Jeff.)

“Water Wonderful World” is now available for download as a PDF from the Trinity City Comics website. Printed copies are also available for sale. Dive into the wonder of water and explore New Orleans through this coloring adventure!

Thank you, hrilina ♡, for sharing your talent with Confetti Park in so many ways! hrilina ♡ is a veteran member of the Confetti Park Players and has long contributed her thoughtful creativity to this radio show and podcast. Here she is sharing poems as a little girl. One is “Teacher’s Prayer” and one is “The Coast of Louisiana.”

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Interview with New Orleans musician Arlo McCracken Allen

At 12 years old, this musician and composer is already active on the local music scene in New Orleans. Katy Hobgood Ray interviews Arlo for Confetti Park

In a recent interview, New Orleans based music prodigy Arlo McCracken Allen shared insights into his musical journey that began at the young age of four when he first sat at a piano. Arlo quickly progressed from playing at home to performing with his dad’s band (Luke Allen, Happy Talk Band) and other notable musicians.

Arlo plays piano and cello, but he loves electronic music. Influenced by video game music creator Toby Fox, Arlo aspires to compose soundtracks for games and films. He enjoys creating electronic music using tools like Logic Pro X and making animations. Arlo even created a piece displayed on a large projection for an audience at Luna Fete, working with artist Courtney Egan.

Currently at Homer Plessy middle school, Arlo is preparing to attend NOCCA, a school for creative arts. He is actively involved in collaborative projects, including the development of a video game with friends for which he composed the main menu theme.

In this interview with Confetti Park, Arlo offers advice to other young musicians — on how to get started playing music, and on finding confidence to perform. Despite having stage fright, playing music liberates him, allowing him to connect deeply with his audience.

Arlo’s vision is to continue building his portfolio and expand his reach through platforms like YouTube. Whether flying solo or collaborating with others, Arlo McCracken Allen’s passion for music is undeniable. We’re excited to watch his journey!

Thanks for sharing your talent with Confetti Park, Arlo!

Arlo McCracken Allen is a New Orleans musician

Sign in front of Bywater Bakery advertises 12-year-old Arlo’s performance

Arlo McCracken Allen performing on piano in the street, Bywater (New Orleans)

Confetti Park is supported by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation and Music Rising at Tulane University.
Imagination Mover Scott Durbin – A Childhood Music Memory

Music can carry powerful memories and emotions through generations, as Scott Durbin of the Imagination Movers shares with us.

Scott, whose grandmother was Native American, recalls participating in powwows at a very young age. His family’s tribe would come together to honor their cultural traditions, and music with drumming and dancing was a central component.

“I remember being very young, dressed in garb and doing a powwow, and as much as a six year old can intuit a spiritual elevation because of the music and the beat, I knew this was amazing.”

Through experiencing the resonating drum circles and participating in the spirituality of his ancestral heritage alongside his grandmother and family, he came to know the power of music early. Scott believes this may be his first clear memory of music unlocking a moment of revelation.

Thank you for sharing this special memory with Confetti Park, Scott!
Storytime: The Mardi Gras Tree by Melinda Taliancich Falgoust
Happy Mardi Gras, everybody!

Wherever you’re watching the parades– whether it’s out in the parishes, Slidell, Metairie or along beautiful St. Charles Avenue–chances are you will need some shade and respite after a long day of truck floats. Find a tree, have a rest, look around, and enjoy the show. And keep your eyes peeled for the Mardi Gras trees! You know the ones… they glitter like rainbows, dedicated as bead catchers by the people passing by.

In this episode of Confetti park, we hear the whimsical tale of The Mardi Gras Tree by Melinda Taliancich Falgoust.
“Laissez bon temps rouler! – let the good times roll! It’s Mardi Gras in New Orleans and everyone’s excited – including the little acorn who just can’t WAIT to grow into a great live oak and watch high over the parades. But as the Great Oak says, it’s not always about being the biggest or the best. “Whatever tree you grow to be, just be the best that you can be.” An endearing tale of growth and self-worth set against the colorful backdrop of one of New Orleans’ biggest celebrations.

You can order the book at https://www.waggingtalespress.com/picture-books
Melinda, thanks for sharing your story and your wonderful talent with Confetti Park!

A Mardi Gras Tree on the campus of Tulane University. Photo by Mary Cross

Category: Podcast

The Chase is On!

A Louisiana Twist on a Classic Tale

How to Listen

A new reading and coloring book about New Orleans’ relationship with water will entertain and educate!