La Befana's Table with Dina & Friends

In this episode of La Befana's Table, Dina returns for a heartfelt conversation honoring the Day of the Dead — Festa dei Morti in her Italian and Sicilian tradition. She reflects on losing both parents, the spiritual practice of memento mori, and how reconnecting to ancestral traditions can hold us through grief. She also shares two announcements: a call for storytellers for the 12 Days of Befana, and a new monthly gathering called the Circle of Gift Givers.Mentioned in this episode:Italian Folklore: Rituals, Celebrations, and Ancient Traditions by Gina Miehle12 Days of Befana — story submissions due December 1stCircle of Gift Givers — 2nd Monday of each month, 7 PM ESTIf you enjoyed this conversation, please consider leaving a rating or review — it helps more people find their way to the table.📖 For more information and to join the La Befana's Table community join us on substack https://labefanastable.substack.com/about This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

Francesco and Maria met in Rome in 2023—not by swiping right, not through a mutual friend, but by singing together in a traditional songs workshop before they even exchanged names.In this conversation, we explore their journey from theatre to how they came together to form Nìula—a duo that offers modern reinterpretations of the traditional oral music of Southern Italy and the wider Mediterranean basin.Drawing from a repertoire of polyvocal songs, they compose original music that bridges the ancient and the contemporary, and connect us across time, place, and language.They lead concerts and singing workshops across Italy & online for both amateurs and professionals, focusing on the connective power of sound, the awareness of breath, and the rediscovery of each person’s unique voice.🎧 Join us at La Befana’s Table and step into the mystery of Nìula’s music—and the story of two people finding each other through song.📬 Get in Touch / Learn More🌐 Website: niula-cantidalsud.com/online-workshops-niula📸 Instagram: @niula.trad✨ Special Discount for La Befana’s Table listeners: Maria & Francesco are offering a discount on their upcoming singing workshops.6 sessions1st April - 6th May 2026Wednesdays, 10:30 am - PDT / 1:30 pm - EDT / 7:30 pm - CESTDetails are linked below—step into the sound and your own voice! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode of La Befana’s Table, I welcome Chiara Durazzini — Florentine native, actor, director, educator, founder of Boston’s Pazzi Lazzi Troupe, and the beloved (and slightly mischievous) Befana di Boston.In celebration of Commedia dell’Arte Day (February 25th), Chiara brings us into the vibrant, irreverent, deeply human world of Commedia — a 16th-century Italian theatrical form that gave us archetypes still alive in today’s sitcoms, satire, and street performance.Together, we explore:* Why February 25, 1545 marks the birth of professional Western theatre* How Commedia introduced women performers to the stage* Archetypes like the Capitano and the clever servants that still show up in modern comedy* The political satire and improvisational spirit at the heart of Commedia* Why exaggeration, masks, and “being too much” can be deeply healing* The evolutionary joy of improvisation and play* And of course… how La Befana found her way to Boston (and YouTube)This conversation is about folklore, embodiment, creative courage, and the radical act of not taking ourselves too seriously — especially in absurd times.🎭 About Chiara DurazziniChiara Durazzini (she/her), a native of Florence, Italy, moved to Boston in 2000.She is the founder of:* Pazzi Lazzi Troupe — a Boston-based Commedia dell’Arte and Italian Renaissance music troupe for which she performs, teaches, and directs.* All’italiana – Boston Italian Theatre Company — staging works by Italian playwrights and offering acting labs in Italian for both native and non-native speakers.Chiara has written, acted in, and directed original works including:* Isabella Unmasked – The Legacy of an Italian Renaissance Woman (2017)* Pinocchio – A Commedia Adventure (2020)She has also staged celebrated plays including:* Oh These Ghosts by Eduardo De Filippo* La Giara – The Oil Jar by Luigi PirandelloHer performance credits include work with Company One Theatre and Apollinaire Theatre Company.She trained with actors of Odin Teatret and studied extensively Commedia dell’Arte with Master Claudia Contin Arlecchino in Pordenone, Italy.These days, she also dances with Salmadanse (directed by choreographer Joanie Block), works as an Italian voice-over artist and teacher — and, in secret (or not so secret anymore), she is the renowned Befana di Boston.She holds a Master’s degree in Art, Music and Theatre from the University of Bologna.🔗 Connect with Chiara🌐 www.pazzilazzitroupe.com📘 https://www.facebook.com/PazziLazzi📸 https://www.instagram.com/pazzilazzi/If you are in the Boston area, look out for upcoming workshops, Commedia labs, and performances💬 Table TalkWhere might exaggeration, play, or improvisation soften something in your life right now?Upcoming HappeningsFesta Della Donna is a Variety Show kicking off Women’s History Month celebrating Italian-American Female contributions to the Arts.It continues its 7th Year Tradition featuring the most talented Donne in Music, Dance, Comedy & Beyond. Don’t miss it!Doors at 2:30pm. Show at 3Approx Running Time: 75 MinutesGenre: Classic Music, Italian Heritage, StorytellingPlease Note: The venue has a 2-beverage minimum per person.#BeBefanaAlways be yourself. Unless you can be befana. Then #BeBefanaEpiphanies, don’t arrive all at once. They arrive gently over time. They whisper to us—if we are paying attention.The #BeBefana campaign was born from listening to that whisper.Inspired by the ancient Italian legend of La Befana and my real life experience animating a puppet of this folkloric figure through the streets of New York City during the pandemic, the #BeBefana campaign is a quiet signal to ourselves and to others that another way of being—and doing—is possible.To #BeBefana is to believe that small, faithful acts matter. To sweep the floor, light the fire, offer welcome, leave a gift—and trust that in the darkest of days love persists, that our stories are never fully written, and that there is always room for a whimsical & wondrous plot twist.10 percent of profits will be donated to the Young Center For Immigrant Children’s Rights.La Befana's Table is a reader/listener-supported publication. To receive new posts and support the work of La Befana’s Table consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Dina sits down with Dr. Derrick León Washington—cultural anthropologist, curator, dancer, and human-rights advocate—to explore how Dr. King’s dream for humanity can be felt on the dance floor.Dr. Washington is the curator of Urban Stomp: Dreams & Defiance on the Dance Floor at the Museum of the City of New York, a groundbreaking exhibition tracing more than 200 years of social dance history and expanding who—and what—belongs in museum spaces.Together, Dina and Derrick reflect on the transformative power of movement, the cultural stories held within social dance, and how dancing can connect communities, transcend barriers, and affirm human dignity.Pull up a chair at La Befana’s Table for a conversation about freedom, joy, and belonging—expressed through the body in motion. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

This week at La Befana’s Table, Dina is joined by Mario the Maker Magician—a world-touring performer celebrated for his one-of-a-kind family theater show bursting with handmade robotics, art, invention, and a big dose of hilarity. Mario has appeared on The Tonight Show, Sesame Street, and recently returned from a sold-out run at the Sydney Opera House. This month, his show lights up New York City’s New Victory Theater.In this episode:* Mario shares his journey as a first-generation Italian American, reflecting on family traditions, the importance of roots, and how his heritage shapes his work and life.* Heartfelt stories about growing up in New York, Sunday family meals, and the sacredness of food and togetherness.* The influence of Mario’s grandfather—a tailor in Italy—on his creative, “maker” identity, and the magic of using what you have to create something special.* Mario’s path from struggling student to artist, musician, and ultimately, magician, including the pivotal moments and mentors who inspired him.* The evolution of his family business with his wife, Katie, and the leap of faith that led them to build a unique, joyful show for kids and families.* Reflections on creativity, surrendering to the journey, and the importance of doing what you love, using what you have, and having fun.* Insights into the creative process, the value of storytelling, and the power of focusing on the good in a noisy world.Where to Catch Mario the Maker Magician* Catch Mario at the New Victory Theater on 42nd Street, NYC. November 15th-30th* London listeners: Mario will be performing at Underbelly Boulevard in December and January.Upcoming HappeningsDecember 26th -January 6thThe 12 Days of Befana is a series of personal stories from guest contributors exploring the themes of kindness, welcome, tradition, belonging, and the sacred in everyday life. Inspired by the legend of Italy’s legendary La Befana—and by my own experience bringing this folkloric character to life in the streets of New York during the pandemic—the 12 Days of Befana is a celebration of a living legend, woven from the true stories of our lives. The deadline to submit is December 10th. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

This week at La Befana’s Table, we’re joined by the brilliant Steve Cerulli—PhD student at Fordham University and Italian American diaspora specialist, and myth-buster extraordinaire.In honor of Italian American Heritage Month, Steve takes us on a whirlwind tour through the history of Italian migration to the Americas, from the earliest explorers to the waves of Southern Italians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We talk about how “Italian-American” identity was forged abroad, the realities of assimilation (or lack thereof), and why so many of the stories we tell ourselves are, well, a little bit of fiction.Key Themes:* Who Counts as Italian-American?Steve explains how early migrants identified more with their regions (Sicilian, Neapolitan, etc.) than with a unified “Italy”—and how the diaspora itself helped create a new identity.* The “We Came Here Legally” Myth:Spoiler: It was basically open borders for much of Italian migration history. Steve breaks down why this narrative is both inaccurate and often weaponized against today’s immigrants.* Assimilation & Return Migration:Did Italian immigrants really “become American” overnight? Not so fast. Steve shares stats and stories about return migration, language barriers, and the complex reality of assimilation.* Organized Crime, Radicalism, and Respectability:From bootleggers to labor organizers, Steve unpacks the real (and sometimes uncomfortable) history of Italian-American communities—beyond the sanitized “good immigrant” myth.* Columbus Day & Its True Origins:Think Columbus Day was created to honor Italian-Americans after the New Orleans lynching? Think again. Steve traces the holiday’s roots* Education & Breaking Stereotypes:Steve shares his latest research on Italian-American educators, busting the myth that Italian-Americans don’t value education.Share this episode with anyone who loves history, heritage, and a good conversation over a strong espresso.Comment below: What’s a myth about your heritage you wish more people would question?Show Your Support: Become a monthly Gift Giver or buy us a virtual espresso to keep the conversations & stories flowing.❤️ Much love and many blessings from La Befana’s Table to yours! ❤️ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

Yesterday we celebrated Valentine’s Day and love in all of its beautiful manifestations whether it's romantic, platonic, or the love we hold for ourselves and the world around us. However you spent Valentines day, we have a special treat for you. An Enchanting Conversation with Mariana BarcellosIn this conversation, we are honored to be joined by Mariana Barcellos, a luminous presence in the world of Brazilian Bossanova. In our conversation, Mariana shares insights into her latest musical offering, a heartfelt duo that echoes the heartbeat of human and heavenly love, released just in time for Valentine's Day. These songs invite listeners to immerse themselves in the depth of emotion they evoke.Reflecting on Love's IntricaciesMariana and I delve deep into the complexities of love, unpacking its layers of passion, commitment, and transformation. Together, we contemplate the profound impact of self-love on our relationships, recognizing the ripple effect it creates in our interactions with others. We discuss the importance of self-awareness and the alignment of celestial forces in nurturing balanced partnerships, and the ongoing challenge of cultivating and sustaining passion and trust.In an Ocean of LoveWe also explore her album Contos do Mar where Mariana embraces the enigmatic allure of the ocean, finding solace and healing in its mysterious depths and the gifts of love the bring. Key insights include:- Exploring the Depths of Love: Mariana Barcellos unveils her latest pair of love songs, capturing the essence of human and heavenly love. Her work, inspired by her personal journey and experiences, offers a fresh, compelling perspective on the varied dimensions love encompasses.- The Ocean's Melody in Healing and Self-Discovery: Mariana reflects on her own album "Contos do Mar," which pays homage to the ocean as a source of healing and a path to finding oneself. She shares her journey through music and how it’s interlaced with her evolving understanding of love and her identity as a singer-songwriter.- The Soundtrack to Our Soul's Journey: The episode beautifully ties together music, love, self-reflection, and the larger love story of humanity. Mariana emphasizes the substantial role of contemplation and balance in love, mirroring the natural cycles of the sun and moon.A Table Set with LoveAs we conclude our conversation, we invite you to pull up a seat at the table of love. Here, amidst the melodies and musings, we celebrate the boundless capacity of the human heart to love and be loved. Connect with Mariana:Website: http://marianasong.com/#marianasongMusic: https://marianabarcellos.hearnow.com/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7uBDOyRnEtSb0GadfnzB7z?si=HBbyrlvvREmjd0WT8Ahf4w&fbclid=IwAR1cn_x_YYcD79GIC3PHkQOKWIAYWzeW5_XZlmTQJnP8cYZjNIqiPy3ytv8&nd=1&dlsi=63b81d15c29f4907If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend.Blessings,Dina and Team Befana This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

After a period of reflection and rest, we are excited to bring you another soul-nourishing conversation, this time with the incredible Chef JJ @chefjjskitchenLove for cookingChef JJ's culinary journey began as therapy for his mind. In the kitchen he found solace in chopping away his worries. His open-mindedness led him to embrace new recipes and unfamiliar ingredients, seeing them as gateways to understanding different cultures. Influence and cultural rootsIn this episode, Chef JJ talks about his mother's influence on his culinary journey and her traditional Palestinian recipes. He also shares his family background, living in Oman, and his Palestinian roots, expressing his connection to his culture through food.The Therapeutic and Connective Power of CookingWe delve into the healing power of cooking and how it helps him stay connected to his roots and the role of food as a form of education & resilience.Together, we explore the ingredients for a future where there is room for all of us at the table.🌟 Cultivating Humanity: Chef JJ emphasizes the essential ingredient of humanity in fostering understanding and empathy towards one another. Understanding different perspectives lies at the core of creating a truly inclusive future.🌟 Open-mindedness and Forgiveness: Through Chef JJ's own experiences and insights, he highlights the transformative power of being open-minded and the importance of forgiveness in paving the way for meaningful conversations and understanding.🌟 Love and Connection: Chef JJ reminds us that love is an essential ingredient for a harmonious future. Embracing love and nurturing connections with others is vital for building a world that encompasses and uplifts everyone.Exciting announcement Chef JJ is now hosting a series of interactive Middle Eastern cooking classes, where you can learn to prepare delicious and traditional dishes from the comfort of your own kitchen.Here are the details:- Chef JJ will guide you through six authentic recipes, including Palestinian and other Middle Eastern cuisines.- The sessions will be interactive, allowing you to cook alongside Chef JJ or simply watch and learn.- Prepare to engage in discussions about the history, ingredients, and cultural significance of each dish.If you're interested in reserving your spot for these special cooking classes, sign up here!! https://bio.site/chefJJConnect with Chef JJ:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjjskitchen/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRhi2YOJXtYoXuO6dhRhYAThank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of La Befana’s Table!Stay tuned for more soul-nourishing conversations.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend.Blessings,Dina and Team Befana This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

Greetings from La Befana’s Table! In today’s episode I’m joined by Mattie Clark, a luminary in the realms of Family Constellations and Convergence, who guides souls toward their true essence. Mattie takes us on a heartfelt exploration of the concept of "courting convergence," where the integration of our parts leads to surrender and allowing the life force to work its magic, in bringing all aspects of our lives together.If you remember, we also touched on the topic of convergence with Rebecca GinaMarie in our last episode, where we imagined a Great Convergence Zone in the United States, where individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives unite to address common challenges, through mutual care. Today, we delve deeper into these ideas, exploring how acknowledging and understanding family dynamics play a pivotal role in in personal and societal change. So how does acknowledging and understanding family dynamics impact our personal growth?In this episode, our guest explores this profound question, delving deep into the ways in which our family histories shape our beliefs, behaviors, and relationships. By recognizing the ancestral patterns, beliefs, and behaviors passed down through generations, we gain the power to break free from limiting cycles and chart our own destinies. Key takeaways:* Surrender and Integration: Explore the art of surrender and how integrating different aspects of ourselves can lead to transformative experiences.* Breaking Limiting Cycles: Understand the power of recognizing and breaking free from generational patterns, beliefs, and behaviors.* Emotional Alchemy: Discover the transformative potential of emotional alchemy, turning challenging emotions into sources of personal growth.* Authentic Activism: Learn the importance of engaging in activism from a place of authenticity and personal connection.By the end of this episode, you'll gain profound insights into the art of surrender, emotional alchemy, and finding your authentic self within the complexities of the world. You'll learn the importance of acknowledging your place in societal structures and discover the power of engaging in activism from a place of authenticity and personal connection.Learn More About Our Guest:To learn more about our insightful guest, Mattie Clark, and explore her transformative work, visit her website here!Interested in courting convergence with Mattie? 7 Thursdays 6-7:30pm ESTOctober 12th, 19th and 26th - November 2nd, 9th, 16th and 30thLearn More HereThank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of La Befana’s Table! Stay tuned for more soul-nourishing conversations.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider recommending La Befana’s Table to a friend. Blessings,Dina and Team Befana This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to another episode of La Befana’s Table! Today, I have our good friend here Rebecca GinaMarie with me. In this episode, we dive into the concept of "border stalking" and its significance in promoting empathy, communication, and reconciliation in a divided world. We also discuss the idea of convergence, inclusivity, and the value of beauty and creativity in our lives.The Great Convergence ZoneWe explore the notion of a Great Convergence Zone in the United States, where individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives unite to address common challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of caring for one another, regardless of our differences, and the potential for positive change when we approach collective issues as a unified community.Overcoming Tribalism and Finding Common GroundWe also delve into the obstacles of overcoming tribalism and stress the necessity of finding common ground with those who hold different beliefs. We highlight the need to envision an inclusive and welcoming future for all and underscore the power of shared positive experiences in building resilience and unity.The Transformative Power of UnityThroughout the episode, personal experiences and insights are shared, touching on topics like political polarization, the role of artists in promoting empathy, and the significance of creating spaces for meaningful conversations.Key Questions for Reflection* How can we bridge the gap between opposing beliefs and foster understanding?* What role do artists play in promoting empathy and unity?* Why is it important to envision a future that is inclusive and welcoming to all?* How can shared positive experiences build resilience and unity in our society?* What if we could find common ground and work together to address our collective problems?* How can we foster understanding, empathy, and cooperation in times of division and polarization?* What role can each of us play in building a better future for ourselves and future generations?A Call to UnityIn today's world, where divisions seem to grow deeper, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how we can come together and make a difference. We understand the challenges of navigating a world divided by differing beliefs and ideologies. Join us as we share personal experiences and insights to help you find common ground and foster unity in your own life. It reminds us that, despite our differences, we all share a common humanity and the potential to create a more harmonious society.Meet Our Lovely GuestRebecca Ginamarie is an Italian-Slavic American writer living in Florida. She also works as a communications strategist for human-centered organizations that align their success with the common good. She spends her free time over good books, good jokes, and good games with her neighbors and loved ones. She’s also the writer behind a substack series, “Letters of UltraAzuli”About Letters of UltraAzuli“Letters of UltraAzuli”, a forthcoming series of slightly-magical fictional stories.Through culturally-rooted storytelling, the series explores historical and potential future models that illustrate cooperative, democratic societies and tackle potential hurdles to coming together.You can subscribe to have her free public letters delivered right to your inbox, follow the letters directly on Substack or join her for discussion on Instagram.Sign-up for Email Delivery: https://ultraazuli.substack.com/Follow on Substack: https://ultraazuli.substack.com/Thank you for joining us on this episode of "La Befana's Table." We hope you found inspiration and insights into building bridges and finding common ground in our diverse world. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media using the hashtag #LaBefanasTable. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit labefanastable.substack.com/subscribe