Parables are the language of the soul. Every tradition understands the unique capacity for stories to convey feelings and virtues , in a way that is non-didactic, non-confronting, and yet marvellously effective, somehow bypassing the mind, and heading straight for the heart.

Donna Jacobs Sife is one of Australia’s leading storytellers, a published writer and social activist, who has been telling stories in schools around Australia and the world for over two decades. Increasingly, the theme of her multi-cultural performances has been that of non-violence, conflict resolution, overcoming fear of difference, welcoming the stranger, developing the qualities that make for a noble character. She has been featured on ABC Radio National many times, on the Spirit of Things, Encounter, and Radio Eye, and in 1997 she received the National Storytelling Award at the one and only time such an award was offered at the Australian Storytelling Festival.

These are some of her best stories, developed over the years, for children from 8 to adult, held together by one story The Blind Man and the Bird. This story gives context to the stories it holds within it, through the conversation between one wise, blind man, and his younger brother-in-law. Their relationship develops as the stories unfold, and the listener is able to witness the process of understanding that occurs between them, whilst being entranced by stories from different traditions, that have taught us all the secrets of humanity since the beginning of time.

Donna and multi-Aria winner Llew Kiek have collaborated to produce a uniquely entertaining and yet profound response to the growing tensions in our culture.