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Please feel free to copy and use the play and songs.  I only ask that you let me know that you are and that you include the personal information at the top of the play. 
I'd love to see some photos from your performance - so please email me a few.

 

Esther-May & the Shushan Hillbillies

 

 Story & Song Lyrics by

Curtis & Carolyn
828-241-2233

with some comedic lines from the original TV Series

 

 
 

NARRATOR:  It’s sometimes called the Feast of Lots … often called the Feast of Esther … but is usually called the Feast of Purim.    Esther  9:28  These days should be remembered and observed in every generation by every family, and in every province, and in every city.  And these days of Purim should never cease to be celebrated by the Jews, nor should the memory of them die out among their descendants.

 

Play Song

 

The Shushan-Hillbillies
Tune: The Beverly Hillbillies Theme
Lyrics: Curtis


Come and listen to my story about a Jew named Mordechai,
Who worked really hard, barely kept his family fed,
Then one day after kicking out the Queen,
His cousin Esther-May was summoned to the King.

Well the first thing you know Esther-May was living there,
Everyone said, “Mordechai, move in with her”,
Said, “Shushan-Hills is the place you ought to be”
But Haman hated him - and all his family.

Spoken:
Jews, that is!  Hated them!  Really Bad!

Well, Esther knew fer sure to the palace she’d been sent,
She went before the King, even knowing what it meant,
Then the next day after she spoke to the King,
Haman  was hung –  that’s what he gets  for being mean.

 
 
NARRATOR:  I’m here tonight to tell you a story – a very old story.  It’s the story of a beautiful Jewish girl.    Let me tell you a little about the characters in our story tonight.
 

(Esther-May walks into to Mordechai Home) This is Esther-May Mordechai, a beautiful Jewish girl -with a destiny - but she doesn't know it. Without a mother, however, she’s become a bit of a tom-boy.  She can out run, out climb, and out fight any boy for miles around.  She's never thought much about getting married - but that's about to change.

 

 
 

 
 

Esther-May:  My family and friends call me Esther-May.  If I was a living in Eretz Israel (the land of Israel), I’d be called Hadassah, but in Persia-Media you have to be careful not to let just “anyone” know that you’re Jewish, so I’m just called Esther-May.  After the death of my parents, my uncle Jed, Jedediah Mordechai, and my Granny took me in and raised me, along with my cousin, Jethro.  Jed’s not really my uncle, he’s really my cousin, too, but because of his age, and my love and respect for him, I call him “Uncle Jed”.

 

 

NARRATOR:  (Mordechai walks into to Mordechai Home carrying a stuffed dog - and sits in a chair) This is Esther-May’s uncle, the Jew, Jedediah Mordechai.  He was exiled from Israel by King Nebuchadnezzar years ago.  Jed is a godly man and often sits by the gates of the city, talking with everyone he sees about Yahweh and the Torah.  He’s wise and well respected by all. 

 

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  (High Pitched) Well – doggies!  Hey there, folks! (Puts dog down beside of table)  Sit Duke!  (Speaking to audience)  Yes, I’m Jewish.  I’m Jedediah Mordechai, of the Tribe of Benjamin.  We Jews have never asked for trouble, but HaShem, Blessed be His Name, seems to continually bless us with an ample supply.  Life can be hard here in Persia-Media.  We’re up before sunrise eatin’ breakfast –  feedin’ the critters and in the fields by sun-up – home, supper and in bed just as soon as it turns dark.  Life is harsh – but with family – and the good Lord on our side – we always manage.

 

NARRATOR:  [Granny's Theme: "Long Long Ago"] (Granny walks into to Mordechai Home – goes up to the table and begins stirring a pot) This is Esther-May’s Granny, Daisy Mo’she.  As you’ll see, Granny is a feisty little Jewish grandmother – born Daisy Mo’she about 75 years ago – even able to trace her lineage all the way back to the original Mo’she (Moses).  She’s “proud” to be a Mo’she (Moses).  She's "proud" to be a Mo'she – and for such a little woman, she’s got an awful big heart.  [Fade Music]

 

Granny:  (Singing to Beverly Hillbillies tune & stirring pot)
    “I’m gonna cook me up a rabbit stew,
     Soon as Jethro fetches me a few,
     Then we all sit down at the table,
     & we’ll eat and eat until we ain’t able.

 

 

NARRATOR:  (Jethro walks into to Mordechai Home carrying a single log for the fire – places it on the floor under the table ) Jethro Bodine moved in with the family at the same time as Esther-May – helping out with chores in the field – chopping wood – whatever is needed.  He’s strong as an ox and twice as handsome.  He even graduated "5th" grade at the Yeshiva Hebrew School For Boys.

 

 

 

Granny:  ( Speaking to Jethro in a stern voice) You know, Jethro, you could get that fire wood in the cabin a lot quicker if you carried more than one log at a time!  Why don’t you try usein’ your head for thinkin’!

 
Jethro:  Ah, shucks, Granny!  I have tried! It hurts!
 
Jedediah Mordechai:  ( Speaking to Jethro) Leave the boy alone , Granny, he gets it done – it just takes a little longer sometimes.  Do a little ciphering for these nice folks, Jethro, so they can see how smart you are.
 

Jethro: 
    1 plus 1 is 2. (holding up 1 finger on each hand)
   
2 plus 2 is 4. (holding up 2 fingers on each hand)
   
4 plus 4 is 8. (holding up 4 fingers on each hand)

 
(PAUSE)
 
Jethro:  If I’m gonna cipher any higher, I’m gonna have to take off my shoes. (Starts to take off shoes)
 
Jedediah Mordechai:  That’s good enough, boy!  We believe you.  (High Pitched) Well – doggies!  It’s hard to believe he’s only had a 5th grade education. 
 

NARRATOR:  (King Dash-u-erus walks into the palace and sits on his throne) This is King Dash-u-erus!  You should recognize him even from afar … movie-star good looks ... and he knows it.  Notice the noble chin, deep set eyes and the beautiful “hair”.  He’s “REALLY” popular in Shushan-Hills - especially with the girls.  All the nobles love him, too!  But I’ll let you in on a little secret…he’s not really of “royal” blood.

 

 
(Whispering) He “bought” his position, so they say….he used to be in the theatre – an “actor”.  Can you believe it?
 
King Dash-u-erus has chosen Shushan-Hills as his capital because of the Jewish craftsmen who live there.  He wants a palace modeled after that of the Jewish King, Solomon. 
 

King Dash-u-erus: 

(King takes off his sunglasses as he enters) (As if speaking on stage to a large audience & lifting his hand toward the sky) “To be or not to be – that is the question!” 

(Regular voice) Yeah!  Yeah! So I had humble beginnings!  But look at me now! With a face like this, I ought to be king - the King of Shushan-Hills and all of Persia Media.

 

NARRATOR:  This is King Dash-u-erus’ wife, Miss Vashti-Jane Hathaway Nebuchadnezzar.  She’s the one with royal blood -  from the family of King Nebuchadnezzar…she’s his granddaughter.  King Dash-u-erus’ only real claim to the throne stems from Vashti-Jane, and they both know this very well

 
(Whispering) She continually reminds him of it, too. 
 
He married her thinking she would add validity to his kingship. 
 

(Vashti-Jane walks into the palace and sits at her table)

 

Miss Vashti-Jane Hathaway:   (With a sophisticated “uppity” voice & attitude)  Having been raised in the palace, it’s unquestionable that I’m the more educated of the two of us.  The more sophisticated.  I am Vashti-Jane Hathaway Nebuchadnezzer.  I could have taken the King’s last name when we were married – but my Grandfather was King Nebuchadnezzar – and I want people to remember that I’m the “Queen” of Persia Media - and where I came from.  I'm a Nebuchadnezzar!  And incidentally – I’m the one with all the real power anyway. 

 

 

 
NARRATOR:  That's what she thinks!
 

NARRATOR:  (Haman Drysdale walks into the bank and picks up some money off of the table) This fellow is someone you’ll want to keep your eye on!  He’s not to be trusted.  His name - Haman Drysdale!   

 
(Pause for Boos & Hisses)  
 

  

 
 

 
 

Haman runs the Commerce Bank ofShushan-Hill - but I don’t think he’s honest.  His 401K keeps growing and growing – but everyone else seems to be losing money.  Hmmmm!

He’s from the nation of Amalek.  Maybe you remember when the Jews left Egypt and were crossing the wilderness…they had to fight against the people of Amalek.  As long as Moses hands were raised, the Children of Israel prevailed, so Aaron and Hur held up Moses’ arms and they defeated the people of Amalek. 

Later the Prophet Samuel told King Saul to smite Amalek and utterly destroy all the men, women, children, and cattle…everything.  (1Samuel 15:3)   Well… King Saul didn’t listen!   But that’s another story.

This Haman Drysdale is an Agagite, an Amalekite, of the descendants of Agag.  Does that tell you anything?  We’d be wise if we always listened to HaShem!!    Haman Drysdale has 10 schmuck sons, just as evil as himself! 

 

Haman Drysdale:  Money, money, money!  I just “love” money!  You can never have too much.  The problem here in Persia-Media is that those stingy Jews are so frugal and they hold on to their money.  They spend it wisely and I haven’t figured out a way of getting my hands on it.  But mind you, I will!  You’re not Jewish are you?  …I just can’t stand those Jews! 

 

NARRATOR:  (Zeresh Drysdale walks into the bank) Let’s move on…This is Haman’s wife, Zeresh Drysdale.   They say she’s much smarter than her husband…comes from a snooty eastern tribe.  She enjoys Haman’s ill-gotten gains and insists on being spoiled and petted and pampered!

 

 

Zeresh Drysdale:  Yes, I’m Zeresh Drysdale, the “young” wife of Haman and mother of his 10 wonderful and oh-so-handsome sons. I was “very” young when we got married – just a girl.

 

Haman Drysdale:  (Speaking to Zeresh) Do what?  You’re older than that, my dear!

 

Zeresh Drysdale:  I happen to be on the sunny side of 25.

 

Haman Drysdale:  Well, honey,  move into the shade – You’re drying up something awful!

 

 

 

 

NARRATOR:  (Sonny Drysdale enters the band) This is Sonny Drysdale - their youngest son.

 
Sonny Drysdale:  (In a snooty uppity voice)   Oh, mum-zie!  I can't find my jacket.  I've got a date and I want to look my best.  Have you seen it?
 

 
Zeresh Drysdale:  Here it is, my darling.  It's on mum-zie's table (Handing Sonny the jacket)
 
SonnyDrysdale:  Oh, mum-zie, do you mind if I borrow the family camel.  I really want to impress my date with the fact that we've got - MONEY!
 
Zeresh Drysdale:  Of course you can, snook-ems!  Anything else you need, you just ask mum-zie!  (Sonny leaves the bank and stands out of sight)
 

NARRATOR:   (Ravenswood enters the palace carrying a tray and stands beside the king’s throne)
We also have with us tonight one of the King’s personal servants, Ravenswood, the Butler. 

 

 

 

NARRATOR:  Now, let's get on with the rest of our story.  This is what happened in the days of King Dash-u-erus, who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Ethiopia. King Dash-u-erus gave a banquet for all his nobles and officials. The military leaders of Persia and Media, the princes, and the nobles of the provinces were all present. The king gave a 7-day banquet for all the people who lived in Shushan-Hills.

 
(Haman enters the palace and stands beside the throne)
 

Vashti-Jane also gave a banquet for the women in the royal palace.

 

King Dash-u-erus:  Ravenswood, bring Queen Vashti-Jane to the banquet wearing her royal crown, in order to display her beauty to the people and nobles.  Have her to bring one of those books she’s so fond of have her to read some poetry to my nobles and princes.

 

Ravenswood:  Yes sir! (Bows slightly and walks to Vashti-Jane)

 
NARRATOR: So Ravenswood went to Vashti-Jane Hathaway and said…
 

Ravenswood: The king desires that you attend his banquet.  He wants you to read poetry to his nobles and princes so that they can see your great intelligence – as well as your beauty.

 

Miss Vashti-Jane Hathaway:  He does – does he?  I’m not a common gutter-snipe that he can command!  I’m the granddaughter of the greatest King of all times.  King Dash-u-erus was a  common actor – tell him to read poetry to the nobles and princes himself.  He ought to be good for something!  I'm NOT coming!

 

Ravenswood:  Yes, ma'am, But he’ll not be happy!

 

Miss Vashti-Jane Hathaway:  Then, tell him I’m busy.  Tell him I’ve got to wash my hair.  Tell him I’m sick – that’s it!  Got the swine flu and he doesn’t want to be around me – that I’m contagious!  Who does he think he is, anyway? 

 

 
NARRATOR:  So, Queen Vashti-Jane Hathaway refused to go before the King as he had requested.
 
(Ravenswood returns to the King and bows slightly)
 
King Dash-u-erus:  She said what?  I might have been an actor – but I was anything but COMMON!  I was EXTRAORDINARY!  She's got the nerver!  What will the nobles think?  How will they respect me if my wife doesn’t? 
 

 
Haman Drysdale:   If I may be so bold, your manesty …  It seems to me that Queen Vashti-Jane has made a fool of the King.  Rumors are already spreading and there is much talk in the palace.  All the women are going to hear about the queen’s conduct, and they will soon be acting the same way with “their” husbands.  There will be no end of disrespect and discord in all of Shushan-Hills.  Therefore, if it pleases the king, let him issue a royal decree which cannot be repealed, that Vashti-Jane Hathaway is never again to enter the presence of King Dash-u-erus - a decree which cannot be repealed.  
 
Sonny Drysdale:   You should also give her royal position to someone else.  Choose someone who is smarter, younger and better looking than she is - someone like my mum-zie!
 
Haman Drysdale:   Someone who knows how to listen to her husband's wishes, your majesty!
 

 
King Dash-u-erus: Well (pause), I suppose I do need to do something.  Haman, tell Queen Vashti-Jane Hathaway Nebuchadnezzar  that she’s no longer welcome in Shushan-Hills.   …and see to it that she gets out of the palace – immediately!
 
King Dash-u-erus:  Ravenswood…
 
Ravenswood:  Yes sire! (Bows slightly)
 
King Dash-u-erus: Have all the “young and beautiful” women brought before me! 
 
(Haman escorts Vashti-Jane out of the palace and drives her out of the kingdom)  (Haman & Sonny return to the bank)
 

Haman Drysdale & Vashti-Jane Hathaway

 
Play Song
 

Vashti's Lament

Tune:  The Beverly Hillbillies Them - Minor Key
Lyrics: Curtis & Carolyn

Now Vashti should have listened
When the King he summoned her
But now because of choices made
She's constantly in fear

Packing up her bags
And from the palace she must go
Living now in exile
For all the world to know.

 
 
(Ravenswood walks out of the palace – facing audience - holding sign Send Beautiful Girls)
 
Ravenswood:  All young, smart and beautiful girls living in Persia-Media are to report to the King’s harem in his Shushan-Hills palace. The girl who pleases the king will be queen instead of Vashti-Jane Hathaway. 
 
(Ravenswood bows slightly and returns to the palace and his place beside the king’s throne)
 
 

 
 

NARRATOR: Now the word went forth in all of Persia-Media about the de-throning of Queen Vashti-Jane Hathaway – and eventually the word even reached the ears of Jed Mordechai. 

 
(Granny & Esther-May exit & goes behind house - Ravenswood goes to the Mordechai home)
 

Ravenswood:  (Ravenswood bows slightly) Excuse me, sir!  I’m the King’s butler, Ravenswood.

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  Well doggies! (Extending right hand to shake hands with Ravenswood)  Nice to meet you Mr. Ravenswood!

 

Ravenswood:  (Not accepting Jed’s handshake)  I understand that there is a beautiful young woman living in your home.

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  Yep, she’s my cousin, Esther-May.  She calls me Uncle, but I suppose that's 'cause she's head Jethro call me Uncle.  What’s your interest in her?

 

Ravenswood:  (Showing the King’s decree)  She’ll need to pack her things and report to the palace of King Dash-u-erus. (Ravenswood bows slightly – hands Jed a golf ball and returns to the side of the King’s throne)

 

 
 

 
 

Granny:  (Granny enters Mordechai home & speaks to Jed) Who was that, Jed? 

 

Jedediah Mordechai:   That was King Dash-u-erus’ butler, Ravenswood.  The king is looking for a new queen and has decreed that all the single women in Persia-Media report to his palace in Shushan-Hills.  It seems that Esther-May’s gonna have to go, too.

 

Granny:  Well, she can’t go, Jed!  It ain’t proper for a single girl to go and live with him there in his palace.

 

 

Jedediah Mordechai:   Where is Esther-May?

 

Granny:  She’s out back with her critters.

 
(Esther-May enters the Mordechai house carrying an animal on her shoulders)
 

Jedediah Mordechai:  Esther-May, the king’s butler was here, and he says you need to report to the palace.  Seems the King is looking for a new wife.

 

Esther-May:  But I don't want to live in the palace, Uncle Jed … or be the new Queen.  I enjoy my life here with you, Uncle Jed, - and Granny & Jethro.

 

Jedediah Mordechai:   I’m sure you do, Esther-May … and I feel the same.  But Adonai seems to have other plans for your life. 

 

Esther-May:  Do ‘ya think I should really go?

 

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  How can you even ask, Esther-May?  We’re 8 miles from our nearest neighbor – overrun with skunks, coyotes & bobcats.  We use oil lamps for lights.  We cook on a woodstove summer and winter.  We drink homemade moonshine and wash with homemade lye soap.  And our bathroom is 50 ft from the house and you ask me should you go?

 

Esther-May:  Yeah, I reckon you’s right.  (Pause) A girl would have to be a fool to leave all of this!

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  No, No!  You misunderstood me, Esther-May.  I think ‘ya should go.  We don’t have a choice about ‘ya going to the palace – but I didn’t hear anyone say you had to come by yerself.  Granny and Jethro will go with you.  We’ve always knowed everybody back home - just who to trust - but we need to be kerful in Shushan-Hills.

 

Jethro:  (Standing Up)  Are we all gonna go and live with them, Uncle Jed?

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  Only Esther-May, Granny and you, Boy.  I’ll have to stay here – at least for now.

 

 
Granny:  I’m not going to Shushan-Hills, Jed!
 

Jedediah Mordechai:  Why Not?

 
Granny:  If the Lord had wanted me in Shushan-Hills, He’d have put me there.
 

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  Well, maybe He’s just now getting around to it.  People say the Lord moves in mysterious ways.

 

Granny:  Well, if He moves me, I’ll go – but you and Jethro ain’t a budging me.

 

Jedediah Mordechai:  You can run your still year round in Shushan-Hills.

 
Granny:  I run it year round now.
 
Jedediah Mordechai:  Yeah, but you know how miserable you are walking all the way to the still in the snow – and how it makes you feel so poorly.
 
Granny:  Well, I might feel miserable walking down to the still, but the way I feels coming back makes up for it. (a little mischievous giggle)
 

Jedediah Mordechai:  Shushan-Hills sounds like a place you’d like, Granny.  The King’s butler, Ravenswood, says they’ve got golfs out there. 

 
Granny:  (Pause)   Golfs?  What a golf?
 

Jedediah Mordechai:  I’m not sure.  He said practically everybody in Shushan-Hills shoots golf.  But as near as I can figure it, they must be some kind of small chicken.  Here’s one of their eggs.  (Holding up golf ball)

 
Granny:  (taking golf ball from Jed and banging it on the table) Why, land’s sake, this shell’s as hard as a rock!  (puts golf ball back in basket)
 
Jethro:  Do you reckon they’ll have grits and rabbit stew at the palace?  …maybe some mustard greens, salted-down goat belly, and pickled eggs?
 
Granny:  You got the biggest appetite, boy!  All you ever think about is food!
 
Jethro:  I can’t help it, Granny!  I’m hungry!
 
Granny:  You’re always hungry.  (Grabbing Jethro by the elbow) …and those pants!   Land-sakes, boy, you’ve almost outgrown ‘em!
 
Jedediah Mordechai:  Mr. Ravenswood told me that Jethro could go to the Potts School when he's out there.
 
Granny:  Potts School?  Well, He'll be learning a good trade.  Everyone can always use another good pot.
 
Jedediah Mordechai:  I don't think it's that king of school.  (Pause)  Granny, Elly needs you there.
 
Granny:  OK – I’ll go. I'll just take this with me! (Picking up the Moonshine Jar)  Esther-May might need it.
 
Jedediah Mordechai:   I heard that those city-folk behave a bit different than we do, Jethro.  I’ll need you to keep an eye out for Esther-May and your Granny.
 
Granny:  Jed, Ester-May does a great job with churnin’, lye-makin’ & corn huskin’, but she's never been too good at cookin’. 
 
Jedediah Mordechai:   I don't think that King Dash-u-erus is gonna be interested in her cookin’ anyway.
 
Esther-May:  They say they don’t have no winter in Shushan-Hills – no snow and ice.  Remember last winter when Granny slipped on the ice and broke her hip?
 
Jedediah Mordechai:   Yeah, she was limpin’ around for 2 days.
 
Granny:  Jethro, How come there’s no ice in Shushan-Hills?
 
Jethro:  (Whining) I don’t know, Granny!  I didn’t take it!
 
Jethro:  Do you think King Dash-u-erus with have "flaming desire" for Esther-May when he sees her?
 
Esther-May:  What’s flaming desire, Uncle Jed?
 
Jedediah Mordechai:   Ah-h-h!  (Pause) Granny will explain that to you when you get out there.
 
Granny:  You’re sure expectin’ a lot from my memory!  (slight chuckle; puts on hat and grabs jug)
 
Jethro:  Granny, Can your rheumatiz medicine cure rheumatiz?
 
Granny:  I can't say it would cure it, but it sure does make having it a pure pleasure!
 
Jedediah Mordechai:   Esther-May, go pack yer best courtin’ clothes.  You’re headin’ for Shushan-Hills!
 
(Esther-May hugs Jed & grabs suitcase.  She, Jethro & Granny get in car and Jethro drives to palace)
 

 

 
 

 
 

Play Song

 

Moving To Shushan-Hills
Tune:  The Beverly Hillbillies Them - 1 Verse
Lyrics: Curtis

So they loaded up the truck
And they moved to Shushan-Hills

The city and the palace
Were full of fancy frills

But Esther had a secret
That the palace didn't know

Her heart belonged to Adonai
In His presence she'd often go.

 
 
 

NARRATOR:  After the king’s edict had been proclaimed, many girls were brought to Shushan, including Esther-May.  Esther-May had not revealed her nationality and family background, because Jed Mordechai had forbidden her to do so. (Jethro parks truck)

 

(Esther-May, Granny & Jethro to Esther’s Room - Jethro takes off coat, Granny takes off her hat)

 

Before a girl’s turn came to go in to King Dash-u-erus, she had to complete 12 months of beauty treatments, and then she would be invited to the King’s chambers.  In the evening she would go there and in the morning return to another part of the King’s harem for the concubines. She would not return to the king unless he was pleased with her and summoned her by name.  (Esther puts on alternate "fancy" clothing over jeans & shirt)

 

King Dash-u-erus:  (Looking around the corner at Esther-May and speaking to Ravenswood)  WOW, Ravenswood!  Who is that Babe?

 

 

Ravenswood:  Oh!  Very good choice, Sir!  That’s Esther-May Mordechai.  We don’t know very much about her, but she is pleasant to the eyes, isn’t she, sire?

 
King Dash-u-erus:  Pleasant indeed! Very pleasant!  She’s as good looking as I am!
 

NARRATOR:  (Esther goes to the throne room and stands beside of the throne) The King was attracted to Esther-May more than to any of the other women, and so she won his favor. He set a royal crown on her head, making her queen instead of Vashti-Jane. (King Dash-u-erus places throne on Esther-May)

 
Jethro:  (Still in Esther-May’s room but looking at her in the throne room)

Granny, Esther-May is turning into quite a city-lady and I think she’s really fallen for that city-fella!

 

Granny:  Yep!  They’ve  hit it off like two barn owls on a branch.  I’m happier for her than a gopher in soft dirt.  Let me add a little prayer - just to make sure it works out.  "Darkin', Dalin', Esther-s trud love, Keep a swoopin' like a dove. Amen!"  (Granny sits in rocker)

 

 

NARRATOR:  One day while Jedediah Mordechai was browsing at the Persia-Media Shouk, he overheard two of the king’s cooks who were conspiring to assassinate King Dash-u-erus. When Jedediah Mordechai found out about the plot, he told Queen Esther-May, who reported it to the king, giving credit to Jed Mordechai.  When the report was investigated and found to be true, the two officials were hanged on a gallows.

 

NARRATOR:  It was sometime after that when King Dash-u-erus decided to honor Haman Drysdale, elevating him and giving him a seat of honor higher than all the other nobles and princes.  He even made him President of the Commerce Bank of Shushan Hills

 

Sonny Drysdale:  Oh, Mum-zie!  Guess who has been elevated to the number one seat of power in all the entire kingdom – just under the king, of course?

 
Haman Drysdale:  I can speak for myself, boy.  Don't go and spoil all my surprises.
 

Zeresh Drysdale:  Really?  You finally did it!  You convinced that fool of a king to make you his number one nobleman - and bank president!  How wonderful!  Oh, I see the good life just around the corner for me – I mean “us”.  There’s nothing we can’t have!  There’s nothing we can’t do!  You just wait till I see my mother!  She said you’d never amount to anything!  … and now you can get your hands on “all” of his money!

 

 

 
Haman Drysdale:  Yes, my sweets, it’s time we got the respect and honor we deserve.  Let me go.  I’m heading back to the palace – and I’ll bask in my new-found power on the way!  This is gonna be great!
 
(Haman walks by the Kings palace and Ravenswood bows down then returns to the side of the throne.  Haman continues walking to Mordechai’s home and pauses there)
 

NARRATOR:  All the royal officials at the king’s gate knelt down and paid honor to Haman Drysdale, as the king had commanded. But Jedediah Mordechai would not kneel down or pay him honor.  When Haman saw that Mordechai would not kneel down or pay him honor, he was enraged.

 
Haman Drysdale:  (Speaking to Mordechai)  Why aren’t you bowing to me?  Don’t you know who I am?
 
Jedediah Mordechai:   Yep!  I know who you are.  Your reputation and greed are well known in these here parts.
 
Haman Drysdale:  Then stop being insolent and bow down before me!
 
Jedediah Mordechai:   I don’t think that’s gonna happen!
 

Haman Drysdale:  (Getting Louder) King Dash-u-erus has commanded it!  I’m the President of the Commerce Bank of Shushan Hills.

 

Jedediah Mordechai:   I do not want to be disrespectful to the King, but I won’t bow before anyone except Adonai.  God should strike me dead first, should I EVER bow to you!  Yes, I know who you are, but I’m Jedediah Mordechai, the Jew, and I bow before no one but Adonai.

 

 
(Enraged Haman stomps off and returns to the palace)
 
NARRATOR:  Haman Drysdale was furious!  He looked for a way to destroy Jedediah Mordechai and all of his people, the Jews.
 

Haman Drysdale:  King Dash-u-erus.  There is a group of people scattered among the peoples in your kingdom whose customs are different from those of our people and who do not obey the king’s laws.  These “hill” folk are vermin – many of them are “Jews” – and the very cause of every woe that has come upon us all!  They're stingy and won't use the Royal Bank either.  If it pleases the king, let a decree be issued to destroy them. They’re worthless people … and they have UGLY daughters!

 
King Dash-u-erus:  Ugly daughters?  Really?  But that doesn’t sound like enough of a reason to destroy them all.  …even if they do have ugly daughters.  Not everyone can be as handsome as me!
 

Haman Drysdale:  Trust me – if you don’t put an end to this group of people, they’re gonna put a strain on the bank – and the kingdom – and you’ll regret it in the long run.

 

King Dash-u-erus:  OK!  I’ll go along with your plan, Haman.  I’ll give you the signet ring from my finger.  Do with these people as you please…especially the UGLY ones.  (King hands Haman the signet ring)

 

Haman Drysdale:  We will send out dispatches with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews—young and old, women and little children—on a single day.  I’ve just cast the “pur”, and the 13th day of the 12th month, the month of Adar, is the chosen day to kill the Jews and to plunder their goods. I should have thought of this sooner.  (Haman returns to the Bank)

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(Ravenswood carries sign around audience, Kill the Jews )
 

Play Song

 

Mordechai's Lament
Tune:  The Beverly Hillbillies Them - Minor Key
Lyrics: Curtis & Carolyn

Mordechai had saved the King
Yet several months had past,

Now sending word to Esther-May
The time had come to fast,

If she would heed the voice of God
Her people could be saved,

Keeping all Jews living there
From going to the grave.

 
 

NARRATOR:  When Jedediah Mordechai learned of what Haman had done, he sat down – started thinking and whittling. (Jethro goes back to Jed Mordechai’s house)   Esther-May heard what Jedediah Mordechai was doing, and she sent Jethro to find out why.

 

Jedediah Mordechai:   Jethro, that evil Haman Drysdale  has made plans to have all the Jews killed on the 13th day of Adar.  I been studying on it and think I’ve got it figured out.  Tell Esther-May that she must go into the King’s presence to beg for mercy.  She must plead for her people. 

 

Jethro:  Won’t that be dangerous for her, Uncle Jed,  – to approach King Dash-u-erus without his requesting her to come into his presence?  She could be put to death if he doesn't extend his scepter to her.

 

Jedediah Mordechai:   It might be dangerous, boy, – but there’s no doubt that Adonai has placed her in the palace for a reason.

 
Jethro:  I’ll tell her, Uncle Jed.  I'll be sure she receives your message.
 

 
(Jethro goes back to Esther-May’s room)   
 

Jethro: Esther-May, Haman Drysdale is plannin’ to have all the Jews killed and Uncle Jed says that ya’ gotta go into the King’s presence to beg for mercy and plead for our people. 

 

Granny:  (Speaking to Jethro)  Pid-e-ful, Pid-e-ful!  I’ve seen Haman at the Shouk.  He’s got a temper that goes off like that (Snaps fingers) and turns real nasty.  Haman is as orn'ry as a mud-wasp in a dry gourd.  The first time he looks down on me, I’m gonna chuck him into the cement pond! 

 

I knows a little bit about Haman’s wife, too.  When it comes to society, Zeresh was the first hog at the trough.  That’s not the way she was raised, though.  Her family was too poor to paint and to proud to white-wash.

 

Esther May: You know that any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned will be put to death, Granny. The only exception is for the king to extend the gold scepter to him, or her,  and spare their life.  Thirty days have passed since I was last called to go to King Dash-u-erus.  I don't know what to do, Granny.  What if Ha-Shem doesn't speak to me about how to approach the King? 

 

 

 
Granny:  (Granny sits in her rocker, Esther-May and Jethro stand beside her)  Adonai always speaks, child.  The question is, are you listenin'?  Do not think, Esther-May, that because we’re in the king’s house that we will escape. We’s about as helpless as a lamb in an alligator filled swamp.   If you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will come to the Jews from another place, but our family will perish. And who knows but that the good Lord put ya here in this royal position for this here time? 
 
Jethro: Can’t we just tell Haman that we’s Jewish and ask him not to do this evil thing he’s got planned?
 
Granny:  Boy, you’re like a big ole skyscraper - with an unfinished penthouse. It appears to me that you’re 2 bricks shy of a full load.
 
Esther May: We shorely need a heap-big miracle, Granny!  Gather together all the Jews who are in Shushan-Hills, and fast for me. When this is done, I will go to the king - even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.  May Ha'Shem give me favor.
 
Granny:  God’s greatest pleasure is making miracles from the dust of our despair; I will pray for a miracle, child.
 
(Esther-May gets on her knees and put s hands together as if praying - Granny & Jethro stand beside her)
 

 
 

Esther-May Mordechai

 
 

 

Play Song

 

The Shushan Hillbillies, Pt. 2
Tune: Beverly Hillbillies Theme - 1 Verse
Lyrics: Myrl Peeler

Here' more of the story
About the Jewess Esther-May

When Haman sought to kill the Jews
She really saved the day.

She approached the King
Though it could have meant her death

She perhaps became a queen
For such a time as this.

(SPOKEN)
Mordechai said so ...
And he wouldn't steer her wrong.

 
 
 

 
 

NARRATOR:  So Jedediah Mordechai, Granny & Jethro carried out all of Esther-May’s instructions. All the Jews in Shushan-Hills fasted and prayed for her.

 
(Esther-May puts on best clothes and goes into the palace)
 

On the third day, Esther-May put on her finest royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king’s hall. When the king saw Queen Esther-May standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther-May approached and touched the tip of the scepter.

 
(Esther-May bows - then stands up straight)
 

 

King Dash-u-erus:  Esther-May, why are you here?   What do you want?  I’ll give you anything - up to half of the kingdom!

 

Esther May: Your Majesty, my husband, if you’re pleased with me, if you truly love me, come today to a banquet I have prepared for you … and bring Haman Drysdale, too.

 

King Dash-u-erus:  A banquet, really?  I’d love to come.  I’ll contact Haman at the bank – I know he’ll want to come, too.

 

(Esther-May, King Dash-u-erus & Haman go to Esther’s room.)

 

NARRATOR:  So the king and Haman Drysdale went to the banquet Esther-May had prepared.

 
Granny:  (Speaking to herself & Looking at Haman as he walks past her)  Pid-e-ful, Pid-e-ful!
 
(Granny & Jethro move to the back part of Esther-May's room) (Granny sits in her rocker)
 

King Dash-u-erus:  OK, Esther-May, we’re here.  Now, how can I please you? I will give you anything you desire. What do you want? Even up to half the kingdom.  Just name it and it’s yours.

 
Esther May: That's not what I want.  If you really love me …  if I have your favor, come again tomorrow, along with Haman, to another banquet I will prepare for you. Then I will answer your question.
 

 

 
(Haman goes to the bank – the King returns to the palace)
 

NARRATOR:  Haman Drysdale went out that day happy and in high spirits. He returned to the bank where Zeresh was waiting for him – along with a number of his friends and his 10 sons.   Haman boasted to them about his vast wealth, his many sons -- he had 10 of them -- and all the ways the king had honored him & how he had elevated him above the other nobles and princes in Persia-Media. Finally, he turned to Zeresh and said…

 

Haman Drysdale:  OK, my little lamb-chop, it you’re gonna keep up with me as I move further and further into the King’s good graces, you’re gonna have to spruce up a little bit.  You’re getting a little old, my dear.

 
Zeresh Drysdale:   Old?  I told you I'm on the sunny side of 25!
 

Sonny Drysdale:  I think you look beautiful, mum-xie!

 
Zeresh Drysdale:   I happen to think I still look pretty good, too.  I’ve got the figure of a young girl.
 

Haman Drysdale:  Well, you’d better give it back before you stretch it out any more.

 
Zeresh Drysdale:   Haman, You took me for better or worse when we got married!
 

Haman Drysdale:  Yeah, I keep reminding myself about that.  (Speaking to himself) I just didn’t know that “worse” could get this bad!

 
Zeresh Drysdale:   So, tell me exactly what happened today, Haman!
 
Haman Drysdale:  I’m not sure what’s up with that servant of Queen Esther-May’s.
 
Zeresh Drysdale:   Which one?
 

Haman Drysdale:  That feisty old woman – you know the one named Daisy Mo’she.  Eveyone calls her Granny.

 
Zeresh Drysdale:   Why do you say that?
 
Haman Drysdale:  Well, Granny shot at me as I was leaving the banquet.  Look at this hole in my hat!
 

(Haman takes off hat and shows her the hole in it)

 

 

Sonny Drysdale:   No, She shot at your hat. I know which one she is.  If she’s shot at you, there’d be a who in "you" instead of the hat.

 

Zeresh Drysdale:   Forget about Granny.  I don’t want to hear about her.  I want to hear about King Dash-u-erus and Queen Esther-May.  Was it a fancy party?  Was the food really good?

 

Haman Drysdale:  It was wonderful!  Absolutely wonderful!  The food was magnificent.  And the wine was to die for!  I was the only person Queen Esther-May invited to accompany the king to the banquet she gave, and she has invited me along with the king again tomorrow. (Annoyed voice)  All this gives me no satisfaction, however, as long as I see that Jew, Jedediah Mordechai, refusing to bow to me.

 

Zeresh Drysdale:   Then just get rid of him!  Have a gallows built and in the morning ask the king to have Jedediah Mordechai hanged on it. Then go with the king to the dinner at Queen Esther-May's - and be happy.

 

 

 

NARRATOR:  This suggestion delighted Haman Drysdale, and he had the gallows built…right outside of his own house.

 

NARRATOR: Some people never learn!

 
(Gallows is constructed)
 

 

NARRATOR:  That night the king could not sleep; so he ordered the book of the chronicles of his reign to be brought to him.   (King is sitting on his throne)

 

Ravenswood: (Ravenswood gets the book off of the table then bows slightly to the king) Here it is sir. (Hands King the Book of the Chronicles)

 

NARRATOR:  The King found recorded how Jedediah Mordechai had exposed the two cooks who had conspired to assassinate him.

 

King Dash-u-erus:    I forgot all about that, Ravenswood.  What honor and recognition has Jedediah Mordechai received for saving my life and bringing this matter to my attention?

 

Ravenswood: Nothing has been done for him, sire.

 
NARRATOR:  Shortly after that Haman Drysdale entered the room.  (Haman enters palace)
 

King Dash-u-erus:   Haman, What should be done for the man the king delights to honor?

 

Haman Drysdale:  (Speaking to himself) Surely he must be talking about me.  Who else could it be?

 

 

(Speaking to the King)    Oh, King, if there is someone you desire to honor, then you should bring a royal robe the king has worn and a horse the king has ridden, one with a royal crest placed on its head.   Then let Ravenswood robe the man that you desire to honor, and lead him on the horse through the city streets, proclaiming what this man has done and how the king delights to honor him.

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Great idea, Haman!  But not on a horse.  We need to use the truck that Queen Esther-May rode in when she came to Shushan-Hills.  What an honor that will be.  Go at once, Haman,  get the truck and do just as you have suggested … for Jedediah Mordechai.  And here, - take this robe. (Removed robe and hands it to Haman)

 
(Mordechai goes to palace.  Haman robes Mordechai and drives him in the truck through the streets)
 

NARRATOR:  So Haman Drysdale robed Jedediah Mordechai, and drove him on horseback through the city streets, proclaiming …

 

Haman Drysdale:  This is what is done for the man the king desires to honor!  Oh, the pain, the pain!

 
Sonny Drysdale:  (Speaking to Zeresh) Oh, Mum-zie, I don't think that's what Dad had in mind!
 

 

 

 

 

Play Song
 

Haman's Lament
Tune: Beverly Hillbillies Theme - Minor Key (Autoharp music)
Lyrics: Curtis

Well, Haman thought the time had come
He'd waited for since birth,

The world and all of Shushan-Hills
Would finally see his worth.

Invited to a party
Fort the King and Esther-May,

What Haman didn't realize
It was his judgment day!

 
 
                    

 

 
 

(The King, Esther & Haman go to palace.  Esther & King sit on the throne.  Haman stands beside her)

 

(Mordechai gives the robe back to King Dash-u-erus and returns to his home)

 

NARRATOR:  The next day the King and Haman went to dine with Queen Esther-May - this time in the King's chambers.

 

King Dash-u-erus:   We're here, Esther-May.  I so value and appreciate you - your kindness - and your gentle nature.  Now, what is your petition?  I will give you anything.  What is your request?

 

Esther-May:  If I have found favor with you, my husband, and if it pleases your majesty, spare my life and the lives of my people — this is my request.

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Spare your life, Esther-May?  Why?  There’s not a man in all of Persia-Media that would harm you.  Who would be so foolish?  Give me the name of any man that would dare to do such a thing?  Who is he?

 

Esther-May:  I’m JEWISH, my king, and the adversary - and villain - is this vile man, Haman Drysdale …

 

(Haman’s mouth drops open)

 

 

 

 
 

 
 

NARRATOR:  Haman was terrified.  He began to tremble and fell to his knees. The king was so angry, that he left the room in a rage.  (King goes to Esther’s room - Haman falls to his knees and grabs Esther by the shoe)  Haman, realizing that the king had already decided his fate, stayed behind to beg Queen Esther-May for his life.  (King returns)  Just as the king returned to the banquet hall, he saw Haman with his hand on Esther’s foot, attempting to persuade her to change her mind concerning him.

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Will you even molest the queen in my house?  What am I to do with you, Haman?

 

Ravenswood:  (Ravenswood bows slightly) Sir, Coincidentally there is a gallows by Haman’s house. He had it built for Jedediah Mordechai, who spoke up and saved the King’s life.

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Then, Hang him on it!  …and good riddance!

 

(Ravenswood takes Haman out to the gallows.  Haman is hanged.  Ravenswood takes ring and returns it to the King)

 

NARRATOR:  So they hanged Haman Drysdale on the gallows he had prepared for Jedediah Mordechai.  

 
 
 

 

Play Song
 

Haman's Lament # 2
Tune: Beverly Hillibillies Theme - Minor Key - Autoharp Music
Lyrics: Curtis

Well, Haman's time had finally come,
Twas time to pay the bill,
He never should have cast the "Pur",
With plans the Jews to kill.

Now going to the gallows,
All the world will know his name,
If you come against the ones God loves,
You just might get the same.

 

 

 
 

NARRATOR:  It had been a difficult time for the Jews living in Persia Media during the Babylonia captivity, but God never left them or forgot about them.  They had always been, and will always be the Apple of His Eye. Monarchs will come and go, empires will rise and fall, but Ha-Shem, Blessed be He, will always be in everlasting covenant with the seed of Israel.

 

NARRATOR:  That same day King Dash-u-erus gave Queen Esther-May the estate of Haman Drysdale. He found out that Jedediah Mordechai was Esther-May’s guardian, and had him brought into the palace – as well as Granny & Jethro. (Mordechai, Granny & Jethro come to the palace)

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Mordechai, here is my signet ring.  You shall be second in rank only to the King.

 

NARRATOR:  The king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordechai.

 

(Esther-May stands to her feet then falls on her knees before King Dash-u-erus, who is till on his throne)

 

 

 
 
 
 
 

NARRATOR:   Esther-May again pleaded with the king, falling at his feet and weeping. She begged him to put an end to the evil plan of Haman Drysdale, which he had devised against the Jews.

 

Esther-May:   Isn’t there something that you can do, my King and husband?

 

King Dash-u-erus:   You know a law cannot be revoked once it has been written. (Pause)   But, you may write another law in my name - on behalf of the Jews - and seal it with my signet ring.

 
Esther-May:  (Taking Defend Yourselves from the table)  Then this is the law I give to the Jews!
 
(Esther-May hands it to Ravensbrook; Ravensbrook carries decree: Defend Yourselves and displays it to the audience)
 

 

 

NARRATOR:  The king’s new law granted the Jews the right to assemble and protect themselves; to destroy, kill and annihilate any armed force of any nationality that might attack them and their women and children; and to plunder the property of their enemies. 

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Jedediah Mordechai!  I’d like to personally reward you for saving my life.  I’d also like to honor you – just for being Esther-May’s guardian, and raising her to be the woman of integrity that she is.  With the death of Haman, I’ll need someone else to oversee the Commerce Bank of Shushan Hills – and also be my royal advisor.  Would those two positions be agreeable with you?

 

Granny:   Speak up, Jed!  Go ahead and tell him what ya thinkin’!

 

Jedediah Mordechai:   Yes, King Dash-u-erus.  Thank you for the honor.

 

 

Granny:   You know, honorable King – I am Esther-May’s Granny!  I’ve looked after that girl ever since she was a wee babe.

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Yes, so I just found out!  And I almost forgot that I had a favor to ask of you.  Will you be Queen Esther-May’s confidant and advisor – continuing to live with her here in the palace?

 

Granny:   (sheepishly)  Well, I’m kind of busy, King Dash-u-erus, – but, if it means that much to you – I guess I can find the time to do it.

 

 

 

King Dash-u-erus:   How about you, Jethro?  Is there something I can do for you?

 

Jethro:   Well, I always wanted to be a Double-Naught Spy – you know – like Double-O-7 (007).  But I think with my ciphering skills, I’d be of a great help to Uncle Jed in the bank.

 
Granny:   Go ahead and cipher some for him, Jethro.
 

Jethro:  I just learned my twelve-times.  Esther-May, hold up two fingers.   (Jethro walks over beside of Esther-May and holds up all 10 fingers & Esther-May holds up 2 fingers)  Let me see, 12 times 1 is 12  …

 

 

NARRATOR:  So, the Jew, Jedediah Mordechai  was given royal garments of blue & white (talit) made from the finest of fine linen.

 

NARRATOR:  On the 13th day of Adar the Jews struck down their enemies with the sword, killing and destroying them.  They killed 500 men in an attempt to protect their families and property, but they refused to plunder those who intended them harm.

 

King Dash-u-erus:   Now, Queen Esther-May, what is your petition? It will be given you. What is your request? It will also be granted.

 

Esther-May:   If it pleases the king, give the Jews in Shushan permission to carry out this same edict again tomorrow, and let Haman’s ten sons be hanged on gallows.

 

NARRATOR:  The king commanded that this be done. An edict was issued in Shushan-Hills, that the ten sons of Haman Drysdale be hanged.

 

Sonny Drysdale:  Oh, Mum-zie!  I think we'd better skedaddle before they catch us with us, too.   (Zeresh & Sonny leave the bank)

 
NARRATOR:  And so Zeresh & Sonny Drysdale left Shushan-Hills as quickly as they could - never to be heard from again. 
 

 

 

 

 

(King on his throne, Esther on her throne; Granny, Jed & Jethro stand behind them)
 

NARRATOR:  The Jews in Shushan-Hills came together on the 14th day of the month of Adar, and they put to death 300 men in Shushan, but they did not take the plunder.  Meanwhile, the remainder of the Jews who were in the king's provinces also assembled to protect themselves and get relief from their enemies.  They killed 75,000 of them but did not take the plunder.

 

NARRATOR:  The city of Shushan-Hills held a joyous celebration.  For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.  Many people of other nationalities became Jews because of the favor they had found with King Dash-u-erus and Queen Esther-May. All the nobles of the provinces helped the Jews. Jedediah Mordechai was prominent in the bank and the palace and his reputation spread throughout the provinces, and he became more and more powerful.

 
 

NARRATOR:  Haman Drysdale had plotted against the Jews to destroy them and had cast the “pur” (that is, the lot) for their destruction. But when the king found out, he issued written orders that the evil scheme Haman had devised against the Jews should come back onto his own head, and that he and his sons should be hanged on the gallows. Therefore these days were called Purim, from the word “pur”.

 

NARRATOR:  The Jews established the custom that they and their descendants and all who join them should observe these 2 days every year, in the way and time prescribed by Mordechai. The 14th and 15th of Adar should be remembered and observed in every generation by every family, and in every province and in every city. And these days of Purim should never cease to be celebrated by the Jews.

 

Mordechai the Jew was second in rank to King Dash-u-erus, and was held in high esteem by his many fellow Jews, because he worked for the good of his people and spoke up for the welfare of all his people.

 

NARRATOR:  Esther 9:28  These days should be remembered and observed in every generation by every family, and in every province, and in every city.  And these days of Purim should never cease to be celebrated by the Jews, nor should the memory of them die out among their descendants.

 
 

 
 
Play Song
 

The Shushan-Hillbillies
Tune: The Beverly Hillbillies Theme
Lyrics: Curtis & Carolyn
i

Come and listen to my story about a Jew named Mordechai,
Who worked really hard, but barely kept his family fed,
His cousin Esther-May was summoned to the King,
A couple of days after he kicked out the Queen.

Well the first thing you know Esther-May was living there,
Everyone said, “Mordechai, move in with her”,
Said, “Shushan-Hills is the place you ought to be”,
But Haman hated him - and all his family.

Spoken: Jews, that is!  Hated them!  Really Bad!

Well, Esther knew fer sure to the palace she’d been sent,
She went before the King, even knowing what it meant,
Then the next day after she spoke to the King,
Haman  was hung –  that’s what he gets  for being mean.

 
(King, Esther-May, Jedediah Mordechai, Granny & Jethro wave to audience through last chorus)
 

Well now it’s time to say good-bye to Esther & her kin,
And we would like to thank you folks fer kindly droppin in,
You’re all invited back next year to this locality,
To hear a brand new tellin’ of this Purim history.

 
 

 

 
 
 
Want to take a look at our impromptu performance of "The Shushan Hillbillies'
Check out the Video Links below:
 

Purim Play "The Shushan Hillbillies" Videos

Part 1, CLICK HERE Part 5, CLICK HERE
Introduction of Characters:
Esther-May Mordechai, Jedediah Mordechai, Daisy "Granny" Mo'she, Jethro Bodine Mordechai, King Dash-u-erus, Queen Vashti Jane Hathaway
["Kill the Jews"; Jed tells Esther-May to go to the King]
Part 2, CLICK HERE Part 6, CLICK HERE
Introduction of Characters:
Haman Drysdale, Zeresh Drysdale, Sonny Drysdale, Ravenswood the Butler
[Vashti Jane refuses the King's invitation; Vashti exiled]
[Esther-May's first banquet; Haman tells Zeresh & Sonny; Book of the Chronicles of the King; King wants to honor someone]
Part 3, CLICK HERE Part 7, CLICK HERE
[Send Beautiful Girls"; Ravensbrook goes to Jed, All go to the palace] [Esther-May's 2nd banquet; Haman begs for his life; Duke hangs Haman; Mordechai promoted; "Defend Yourselves"; Zeresh & Sonny flee]
Part 4, CLICK HERE Part 8, CLICK HERE
[Esther-May in the palace, Haman becomes the # 1 noble, Haman with Jed Mordechai] [The Mordechai Family with the King in the palace; Final song with waving; Introduction of cast]
 
 
 
 
 

Shushan-Hills Play Cast

 

Narrator
Esther-May Mordechai

Jedediah Mordechai
Granny Daidy Mo'she
Jethro Bodine Mordechai
King Dash-u-erus
Queen Vashti-Jane Hathaway
Haman Drysdale
Zeresh Drysdale
Sonny Drysdale
Ravenswood

 
 

 

 

 
 

Purim Play Costuming

 
Many of the costumes for this particular play were acquired at the local Good-Will store - but can be provided by actors with pre-planning.

Esther-May:
Blue Jeans (rolled up), barefoot, hair in pig-tails, appropriate shirt, rope belt, crown

Jed Mordechai:
White T-shirt, Old hat, Old Jacket, work boots, Jeans (over-alls can be used)

Granny:
Long skirt, long-sleeved shirt, apron, work boots, hair in "bun" (I made a hair "bun" out of braided gray yarn & hot glue), shawl

Jethro (Joel):
  Jeans (rolled), barefoot, white  t-shirt, old coat (a little too small), old hat

King Dash-u-erus:
Fancy clothes cause he used to be a "Movie Star", sunglasses, robe, scepter, signet rings

Vashti-Jane Hathaway:
  Jumper & long-sleeved white shirt or turtle neck shirt, book-work style glassed, book, crown

Haman:
  Black pants, black shirt, black jacket, black shoes, black Derby-style hat (from Party City)

Zeresh:
Fancy dress and BIG hat

Sonny Drysdale:  Khaki pants or shorts, plaid shirt, dark jacket, a "beanie-hat"

Ravenswood the Butler:
  Dress pants & shoes, white shirt & bow-tie, coat, serving tray

 
 

Stage Layout Scenes & Props

(4 Scenes)
 
Mordechai Country Home  
Food Table with Bench & 1 wooden chair
Large Family Truck painted on card-board & cut out
Toy or stuffed-animal type Dog
Stuffed-animal critter for Esther-May to carry (I found a racoon)
Log, Pot & Spoon
Pocket knife & whittling stick
Oil Lamp, Rocking Chair, Baskets
Checkered Table cloth for table
 
 
 
 
 
Palace Room
2 nice chairs as thrones
Table
Table & Lamb
Chronicles of the King - Book
Area rug
Light-weight painting for wall
 

 
 
 
 
Vashti/Esther's Room
Nice chair (Wicker if possible)
Table & Lamp
 
 
 
 

                 

Commerce Bank   

Sign for wall "Commerce Bank of Beverly Hills"
Table, Play Money
2 Chairs behind table
Cash Register if possible

 

 
 
 

Purim Play Notes

 

Our congregation is fairly small.  Since the group is small, parts are not memorized beforehand, but instead are frequently assigned on the evening of the play as the Narrator reads his/her part.  Everyone is always willing to take a part and it's always interesting to see who will be portraying the character each year.  With this particular play, parts were assigned confidentially before the night of the play, but actors still didn't see the play until the evening of the Purim Celebration.  Actors were costumed just before the play began in order to save time.

 

Purim Songs

 

The music for all of the songs I used in the Purim play can be found on the internet, usually in midi form, sometimes in MP3 form.  The following MP3s can be downloaded if you Right-Click with your mouse, then click "Save Target As"

 
1. Beverly Hillbillies - Intro
2. Beverly Hillbillies Short - 1 verse
3. Beverly Hillbillies - Minor Key
4. Beverly Hillbillies - Coda
 
 
 

 

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