It's the time of year when it's getting colder, it's winter, it's the holidays &hellp; time to gather round the fire for some storytelling and shared experiences. MPR News Arts Reporter Marianne Combs joins Steve Seel and Jill Riley on The Current's Morning Show to talk about some heartwarming productions.

It's the time of year when it's getting colder, it's winter, it's the holidays … time to gather round the fire for some storytelling and shared experiences. MPR News Arts Reporter Marianne Combs joins Steve Seel and Jill Riley on The Current's Morning Show to talk about some heartwarming productions, perhaps some new holiday traditions. As Jill says, "It sounds like holiday hygge."

Kevin Kling's Tales from the Charred Underbelly of the Yule Log — For one night only (next Monday, Dec. 15, at the Guthrie Theater, to be precise), Kevin Kling regales with another show of seasonal tales. Kling's storytelling style is hilarious and bittersweet as he combines recollections of youth and of dysfunctional families, creating something relatable and entertaining.

Bradley Greenwald's The Longest Night — Presented at the Open Eye Figure Theatre in Minneapolis, Greenwald's work is a meditation on the winter solstice, the darkness and the traditions around it. The show comprises music, the holiday blues, excess, and the contemplation of winter as a metaphor for death and rebirth. This show had a limited run last year, but resonated with audiences and thus has been brought back for another year. The show opens tonight and runs through Sunday, Dec. 21.

Africans in the Snow — Presented by the Cottman family, this one-night show of storytelling, fellowship and culture celebrates African culture and includes a dance group, drumming, and a jazz combo. Benefits from the proceeds to this show are donated to Doctors Without Borders in their fight against Ebola in Africa, and to help youth-activist groups in Ferguson, Mo. This show happens Sunday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 p.m. at Patrick's Cabaret in Minneapolis.

Marianne Combs joins The Current's Morning Show for the Weekend Arts Roundup every Thursday at 8:30 a.m. Read all the latest arts news from MPR News.