Purim Play
Esther-Ann
Here On
Shushan Isle
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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-Ann, Here on Shushan Isle
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.
Here On Shushan Isle
Tune: "Gilligan’s Island"
Lyrics: Curtis & CarolynJust sit right back and you’ll hear a tale,
A tale about Purim,
That started in Persia Media,
To an island called Shushan.
There lived a King, a good old guy,
Who tried to do his best,
To make the others happy,
But it put him to the test,
It put him to the test.
A plan was made to rid the place,
Of every single Jew,
An awful predicament,
Whatever will they do,
Whatever will they do.
The story is an old, old tale,
Told Long ago but true…
…about Esther-Ann, Vashti, too,
Ahashuerus, and Mordechai,
There’s Haman Howell, and there’s Zeresh, too,
Here on Shushan Isle.
NARRATOR: Shalom Castaways! (Spoken rhythmically - like the TV Song) Just sit right back, and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip, that started from a tropic port, aboard a tiny ship, The mate was a mighty sailin' man, the Skipper brave and sure, five passengers set sail that day, on a three- hour tour, a three-hour tour. The weather started getting rough, the tiny ship was tossed. If not for the courage of the fearless crew, the ship would have been lost, the ship would have been lost. Eventually the ship set ground on the shore of this uncharted dessert isle ...
(Skipper Mordechai walks out - gets into the boat - looks around with hand up to eyes) It all started when Skipper Benjamin Mordechai agreed to take a group of passengers on a three-hour tour of the beautiful Gulf of Oman aboard his boat, the S. S. Minnow. He usually took folks out on fishing trips, but this time the Minnow was chartered for a relaxing three-hour-cruise of the beautiful turquoise-blue waters. But you know how sea skies can change and an unforeseen storm left Skipper Mordechai and all of his passengers stranded on a deserted island that they eventually came to call "Shushan Isle". (Skipper gets out of boat and walks into the Mordechai Hut)
SKIPPER MORDECHAI HUT
Gilligan's Chair & Skipper's Chair
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Yes, it was a fearful storm. Had it not been for the saving hand of Adonai, we'd surely have all been lost. I’m Jewish, from the Tribe of Benjamin, and we Jews have long known how to navigate the seas - but I didn't foresee this severe storm coming. We Jews have never asked for trouble, but HaShem, Blessed be His Name, seems to continually bless us with an ample supply. Frequently the trouble is from those who don't understand our ways, but this time it was trouble from a fierce trial on the stormy seas. (Skipper sits down in his chair)
(Gilligan walks out carrying fishing pole - gets into the boat - looks around with hand up to eyes)
NARRATOR: Skipper Mordechai seldom sailed without his First Mate and friend, "Gilligan-ski". He is really good natured and always willing to help the Skipper - but he's also a little "clumsy" and "accident-prone". Like Mordechai, Gillian-Ski is Jewish. (Gilligan gets out of boat and walks into the Mordechai Hut - ALMOST STUMBLING - props fishing pole next to wall - and stands beside of Mordechai)
GILLIGAN: My name is actually Gilligan-ski, but you can just call me Gilligan - for short.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: (Smiling & sniggering) Tell 'em what your WHOLE name is, Little Buddy.
GILLIGAN: (A little frustrated) Oh, Skipper, I don't want to.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: It's alright, Gilligan. Go ahead and tell 'em.
GILLIGAN: OK, Skipper - if you insist. My full name is Gilbert Gilman Gilligan-ski. Now you can see why I prefer to be called Gilligan.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: You know, Gilligan. The sole purpose of a child's middle name is so he can tell when he's really in trouble.
GILLIGAN: And you should have heard my Bubbe calling me when I was in trouble! (Speaking loudly and in a stern voice) Gilbert Gilman Gilligan-ski!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: I imagine you heard that a lot when you were growing up!
GILLIGAN: A lot of times, for sure. (Speaking to Skipper) Skipper, I'm hungry. Let's have breakfast.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Gilligan, we've already had breakfast.
GILLIGAN: Let's have lunch.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: We've already had lunch.
GILLIGAN: Let's have dinner.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: (Pause - annoyed at Gilligan) We've already had dinner, too, Gilligan. By the way, where are those tropical leis that the girls made for us?
GILLIGAN: (Taking them from the table - Hold up the half-eaten lei) I had a snack! (Gilligan smiles)
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Gilligan, would you stop talking about food.
GILLIGAN: Skipper, I think we should try writing a note, putting it in a bottle & tossing it out into the sea. Look, I already have the bottle. (Holding up bottle) Maybe someone will find it and we'll be rescued. I really want to go back home to Persia-Media, and eventually make aliyah to our homeland - Israel.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Go for it, Little Buddy!
GILLIGAN: Have you got paper and a pen, Skipper?
SKIPPER MORDECHA: Here you go, Gilligan. (Handing Gilligan paper & pen from table)
GILLIGAN: (Pretending to write note and reading out loud while writing) S - O - S! We--'ve be-en ship--wrecked and are stran--ded on Is--land. Plea--se come res--cue us. The S.S. Min--now. (Rolling up note and stuffing it in the bottle - puts top back on bottle - walks to ocean & throws bottle into ocean - walks back to Skipper's Hut)
BOAT NEAR OCEAN SCENE
GILLIGAN: I sure hope someone finds that bottle. Skipper, Look! (pointing toward ocean) There's a shark!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Where's that shark repellent that the Professor made for us?
GILLIGAN: (Embarrassed) I was hungry - and I had another snack!
(Esther-Ann walks out - gets into the boat - looks around with hand up to eyes)
NARRATOR: This is Esther-Ann Mordechai, a beautiful Jewish girl - with a destiny – but she doesn’t know it. She’s never thought much about getting married - but that’s about to change.
(Esther- Ann gets out of boat and walks into the Mordechai Hut - and stands on the other side of Mordechai)
ESTHER-ANN: Shalom, folks! I'm Esther-Ann Mordechai. If I were living in Eretz Israel, the land of Israel, I’d be called Hadassah, but when we had to move to Persia-Media I quickly discovered that you have to be careful not to let just “anyone” know that you’re Jewish - so I chose the name Esther-Ann. Esther-Ann Mordechai. After the death of my parents, my Cousin, Skipper Mordechai, took me in and raised me. From the time I first moved in with him, he's treated me like a daughter. I wasn't even supposed to go on this "three-hour cruise" - but when I begged him, he agreed to let me go along with him.
NARRATOR: Besides Skipper, Gilligan and Esther-Ann, there were also four passengers who were on the S. S. Minnow on the "three-hour cruise" that left them all stranded on Shushan Isle.
(Professor Ahashuerus walks out - gets into the boat - looks around with hand up to eyes)
NARRATOR: This is Professor Gideon Ahashuerus. He's known over the entire region for his intelligence. But it's really all "book-learning". In spite of everything he knows, he frequently overlooks the most obvious hypotheses to many questions he's trying to answer. In spite of that, he still speaks at conferences all over the region.
BEACH UMBRELLA - Professor's Place
Esther-Ann's seat & Professor's seat
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: (Frustrated) When we left Persia Media on this ill-fated cruise, I had planned to investigate marine-life in this area - including the seaweed and kelp that are growing here. Who would have thought that we'd all have ended up living here. But, we'll just have to make the best of it. There are some fine-looking ladies here - and no one could doubt that I'm the best looking dude on the island!
NARRATOR: Everyone does seem to really like him - especially the girls. ... and like he said, he's not bad looking, either.
(Professor sits down)
(Vashti Grant walks out - gets into the boat - looks around with hand up to eyes)
LADIES' HUT
NARRATOR: Also among the passengers on the cruise is the "lovely" Vashti Grant. Vashti was a famous theatre performer all over Persia-Media before being marooned on Shushan Isle, but her royal lineage was the thing she was best known for. We'll talk more about that later. She had even been a member of the Royal Shakespearian Theater Company.
(Vashti gets out of boat and walks to the Ladies' Hut)
VASHTI: (Taking off her sunglasses and speaking in a Marilyn Monroe/ "dumb blonde" style or sultry style voice) Hey there. I'm Vashti - Vashti Grant. Perhaps you've seen me on stage at the Tehran Amphitheatre? You might even remember my most notable scene there. Listen to this... (Singing) "Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Mr. President, Happy Birthday to you". Oh, I just love acting. (Looking at audience) I've been thinking about getting married. What kind of husband would you advise a young lady to get?
NARRATOR: A "single" one!!!
(Vashti sits down in her chair in the ladies hut)
(Haman & Zeresh walk out - get into the boat - look around with hand up to eyes.)
NARRATOR: Every story has a villain. In this one, it’s this guy…Haman Howell III.
(Pause for Boos & Hisses)
NARRATOR: It’s customary to show your distaste for him with a “Boo”, or a “Hiss” or by stomping your feet whenever his name is spoken.
NARRATOR:
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 when his arms became tired, Aaron and Hur held them up, resulting in the defeat of the people of Amalek.
Later the Prophet Samuel told King Saul to smite Amalek and totally 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 Howell III is an Agagite, an Amalekite, of the descendants of Agag. He's also a banker - with a lot of money - and not all of it is his! Does that tell you anything? We’d be wise if we always listened to Adonai!! Haman Howell III is a man who should definitely be avoided!
(Haman & Zeresh get out of boat - Haman walks into the water retrieving the bottle. He and Zeresh stand beside of the boat)
Haman: (Handing bottle to Zeresh) Oh, Lovie! Look at what I just found.
ZERESH: It's just like in one of those old Hollywood movies. Someone has written a note, put it in a bottle, and thrown it out to sea.
Haman: Hand it back to me and let me see what it says. (Zeresh hands Haman the bottle. He opens it - takes the note out) (Reading to Zeresh) "S - O - S! We've been shipwrecked and are stranded on Island. Please come rescue us. The S.S. Minnow. " By, jove, Lovie - that's us! I wonder how someone knew that we were marooned on this island.
ZERESH: Maybe the Captain or Gilligan wrote the note.
(Skipper walks over and takes the bottle from Haman and kisses Mrs. Howell's hand)
HAMAN: See here, my good man. This was a private conversation.
ZERESH: You'll have to excuse him, Captain. He's just a little bit jealous.
HAMAN: I'm not jealous. I just don't want him slobbering over those expensive gloves.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: You were right, Mrs. Howell. It was Gilligan & I who wrote the note and tossed it into the ocean. We're hoping the Israeli Navy would find it. After all, there's no one more reliable than the Israeli Navy!
HAMAN: Yes there is! The Persia-Media Yacht Club! My outfit!
(Skipper puts the note back into the bottle and tosses bottle back into the ocean)
ZERESH: Well, there's no one who wants to be rescued more than Haman and I. Before we left on the three-hour cruise, he told the chauffeur to keep the motor running. I'm afraid he'll run out of gas.
HAMAN: Come along, Lovie! (Skipper returns to Skipper's Hut - Haman & Zeresh go half-way to the Howell Hut) You know, Lovie, I just don't trust that man! The Israeli Navy - indeed! It was his carelessness that caused us to be marooned here on this island in the first place.
ZERESH: Maybe we ought to report him to someone, Haman.
HAMAN: Well, he will definitely bear watching!
Haman: You know, I personally doubt if the Captain or Gilligan, either one, would be smart enough to think of doing something like putting that note in a bottle and tossing it out in the ocean. Now, the Professor - he might have come up with the idea.
(Haman & Zeresh go to the Howell Hut. Zeresh sits down and Haman stands beside of her)
HOWELL HUT
NARRATOR: You've probably already guessed it, but if you haven't, that's Haman Howell's wife, Zeresh. She comes from a snooty eastern tribe of Agagites. Some say that they're actually cousins, but you didn't hear it from me. They say she’s much smarter than her husband…even able to speak several languages. She does enjoy the life-style his money provides - so she doesn't complain too much.
(Gilligan goes to the Howell Hut)
GILLIGAN: Mr. Howell, Do you have an aspirin?
HAMAN: Of course, I do, Gilligan.
GILLIGAN: Can I borrow one, please? It's very important. The Skipper has a headache.
HAMAN: Yes, of course. They're in my pill case.
ZERESH: You stay there and relax, dear. I'll go get them. (Zeresh moves to the back of the room with her back to Gilligan & Haman)
PILL BOX
[Pill box is made from an old shoe box that has been spray painted black. A plactic handle has been added. On the inside, a divider has been added to display two rows of bottles. Old medicine and vitamin bottles were used. Play money came from Party City.]
HAMAN: There goes a lovely lady. Gilligan, let me tell you something. Look behind every successful man and you'll find a woman. (Pause) Mine was my mother!
ZERESH: (Zeresh comes back carrying Haman's pill case - hands it to him and sits down) Here you go, Haman, dear.
HAMAN: Thank you, Lovie. (Opening pill case so audience can see) Oh, how did this get in here? (Takes out money and puts it in his pocket) (Taking out bottle of Aspirin) Here it is - aspirin for my arthritis. Lovie, do you remember which one of my shoulders was hurting?
ZERESH: No dear, you asked me to get them for Gilligan.
HAMAN: Gilligan? Well, he seems much too young for arthritis.
ZERESH: No dear, Gilligan came for an aspirin for Skipper.
HAMAN: Aspirin, of course! Here they are.
GILLIGAN: Thank you. (Takes pill bottle and goes back to Skipper's Hut. Skipper pretends to open bottle, and take a pill)
HAMAN: Lovie, that's the younger generation for you. Medication for anything and everything.
(Haman takes another bottle out of pill case)
HAMAN: What is this? (Reading label on bottle) "Kills pain - fast - fast - fast!" (Throws bottle over shoulder) Fast indeed! Nobody rushes a Howell! (Zeresh closes pill case and puts it on the table)
(Everyone moves to the Meal Table - pictured below - All sit except Gilligan)
MEAL TABLE
[Everyone seated on 3 sides of table facing audience]
Skipper - Gilligan (standing) Haman Zeresh Professor Vashti - Esther Ann
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Gilligan, you forgot to put away the radio equipment after you had it out this morning. Go back to the hut and store it properly before joining us here for lunch, Little Buddy.
GILLIGAN: OK, Skipper.
HAMAN: (Standing & taking Gilligan by the arm) You don't have to do anything for the captain, Gilligan. Stand your ground.
GILLIGAN: If I do, I'll be buried in it.
ZERESH: Let the boy go, dear.
HAMAN: He's no longer a boy, Lovie. He's a man.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: (Speaking forcefully) Gilligan!
GILLIGAN: OK, I'm a boy! I'm a boy..
HAMAN: Captain, I was talking to Gilligan - and you're interrupting a business conversation.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Gilligan, get back to the hut and put the radio equipment away. You know it's bad for the batteries when it's left out in the open like that.
GILLIGAN: Aye, Aye, Sir! (Starting to leave for the Skipper's Hut)
HAMAN: (Speaking forcefully) Come back here, Gilligan! (Gilligan turns around and starts back)
(Conversation between Skipper & Haman gets progressively louder and louder)
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Get going, Gilligan, if you know what's good for you.
HAMAN: Don't threaten the boy! Come back here, Gilligan!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: I can threaten him if I want to. He's part of my crew. (Speaking forcefully) Get going, Gilligan.
HAMAN: Come back here, Gilligan!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: I gave him an order!
HAMAN: And I want to give him a job. Gilligan, how would you like to be Secretary of the Navy in Persia-Media?
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Gilligan, don't talk to him.
HAMAN: Pay no attention to him, Gilligan. He'll eventually be working for you.
VASHTI: Maybe you should just toss a coin.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: I'm having enough troubles running this island without a mutiny on my hands.
HAMAN: And who told you that you were running this island?
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Well, I am the Skipper, after all. I'm the logical choice.
HAMAN: And I am "Chairman" of the Board!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Professor, will you tell these people who is in charge on this island?
PROFESSOR: Well, Actually, no one is, Skipper.
HAMAN: Good heavens, this is anarchy.
VASHTI: I've got an idea. Why don't we vote, like in an election.
HAMAN: Great idea! I'll spend millions on my campaign. Everyone here knows that I should be King. And just to prove it, I'm willing to buy all of your votes.
ZERESH: Maybe we should hold a debate to see who is the most qualified.
NARRATOR: Well, they eventually did hold the debate - and the election. And as it turns out, Vashti's great-great-great-great-great-grandfather was King Nebuchadnezzar & with that pedigree, and the fact that she was part of the Royal Shakespearian Theater Company, she was quickly elected Queen-Bee of Shushan Isle.
ZERESH: I just love a tiara! (Gilligan places crown on Vashti's head)
NARRATOR: But they felt they needed someone else - a man - to be the "real" ruler. With his superior intelligence, popularity and good looks, it didn't take long for the group to realize that Professor Ahashuerus was the one destined to be in charge of things. So Professor Ahashuerus was chosen King of Shushan Island. As a youth he had been a lowly stable keeper, but with hard work, he had indeed earned degrees from seven major universities - and even taught at several of them.
PROFESSOR: (Smiling slightly) Thank you all for this honor. I agree that I'm the logical choice to be in charge. Have I told you all about my educational experience? I hold 2 degrees from Goshin Tech, a masters from Tehran U, and not meaning to brag, but a doctorate from the Bagdad Institute of Science - and four other degrees besides those. (Ahashuerus moves to the chair under Beach Umbrella)
(Skipper, Gillian & Esther-Ann move to the Skipper's Hut - Vashti moves to the Ladies' Hut and sits)
(Haman & Zeresh move to the Howell Hut)
Haman: Personally, I don't know how Professor Ahashuerus became the King of this island. He may be smart - but he has NO money. It must have been a crooked election if "I" didn't win. I've always said, any time a Howell can't buy an election, it has to be crooked! I don't know, but I suspect Professor Ahashuerus is Jewish. I never could stand those Jews. My granddaddy, Haman Howell the 1st, hated them - my daddy, Haman Howell II, hated then - and I hate them, too. They're the scum of the earth.
ZerESh: Haman, darling, if I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times, "Don't talk about earth scum in public!". It's degrading!
Haman: You know, Lovie dear, people have always been jealous of me because I'm so successful. Even as a child I knew what I wanted. Once I almost asked God for a camel, but I know God doesn't work that way - so I stole a camel and then asked for forgiveness - just in case there really was a God. And besides, I've always thought, if God is watching us, the least we can do is be entertaining!
ZerESh: Oh, Haman, you're so brilliant!
(The men - except for Skipper - go to the main food table and sit down, Gilligan stands between the Professor & Haman)
(The ladies all go to the Ladies' Hut - Vashti & Zeresh seated; Esther-Ann standing)
NARRATOR: To solidify his position of authority on the Island, and make it even stronger, the Professor even married Vashti Grant. With Skipper Mordechai officiating the marriage, everyone on the island turned out for the "Royal Wedding".
One day several months later, as the sun was beginning to set on Shushan Isle, Professor Ahashuerus gave a banquet for the men on the island. Everyone came - except for Skipper Mordechai. Skipper had started to notice just how Haman acted when he was around and wanted nothing to do with him.
As it turns out, Vashti also gave a banquet for the women in her hut. As the men were dining, Professor stood up and said...
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Gilligan, Bring Queen Vashti to my banquet wearing her royal crown, in order to display her beauty to all my great friends here. What’s the point of having a Queen of noble birth, one who was a famous theatre actress, if you can’t show her off every now and then?
(Gilligan goes to the ladies hut, knocks on the door, then walks in)
NARRATOR: So Gilligan went to Vashti and said…
GILLIGAN: Hey, Vashti, The Professor needs you to come to this party he's throwing for the men on the island. He said he wanted to show you off.
VASHTI: Oh, Gilligan! He always wants something. If we had to get marooned on an island, why couldn't it be Manhattan or Long Island. Hand me my compact, Esther-Ann. (Esther hands her the sea-shell-compact off of table) Cute, huh? I had to have something to put my makeup in.
Sea-Shell Compact
[Shell compact made from shell - blue, red and black colors printed on printer and cut out]
ESTHER-ANN: But, there's nothing in here but berries.
VASHTI: That's right. The red berries are lipstick - the blueberries are eye shadow - and the black berries are mascara.
VASHTI: Oh, Gilligan, can't you see I’m busy.
GILLIGAN: Well, I can see that, Vashti, but I really think he wants you to come - right now!
VASHTI: Tell him I can't - that I'm having a party of my own. Who does he think he is? Just because he’s been elected leader on Shushan Isle doesn’t give him any right to tell me what to do. Maybe I’ll go…and then…maybe I just won’t!
GILLIGAN: OK, Vashti! I'll tell him, but he's not gonna be happy! Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit - wisdom in not putting it in a fruit salad. You might not have made the wisest choice, Vashti!
(Gilligan returns to the main food table and stands beside the Professor)
NARRATOR: So, Vashti Grant refused to go before the Professor as he had requested.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Well, that is certainly awkward! It didn't go the way I had planned. Who does she think she is? She knows I'm the leader here on Shushan Isle. How can I lead if no one follows?
HAMAN: You're absolutely right, old boy! She has to be taught a lesson. Vashti Grant has done you wrong and everybody knows it. The other women are going to hear about her conduct, and they might get ideas themselves. They'll stop cooking for us - and think they can just get by with it. There will be no end of disrespect and discord. Why don't you simply get rid of her and get you another queen? Send her to Exile Island or somewhere like that to teach her a lesson. Then simply issue a royal decree and let it be written in the laws of Shushan Island, which cannot be repealed, that Vashti Grant is never to return. Then give her royal position to someone else who is younger and better looking than she is. …someone who knows how to listen to her husband’s wishes!
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Well (pause), I guess I could. I wouldn't mind having someone a little younger, but the supply of females on the island is really a little limited - if you hadn't noticed.
HAMAN: (sarcastically) Have you got a better idea?
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: No, not really. I've used my education and what I learned in the process of earning numerous degrees many times, but nothing I learned taught me how to deal with women! OK, let's do it. Gilligan, Bring all the beautiful, young women out for me to see.
(Gilligan goes to the Ladies Hut)
GILLIGAN: Hear-ye, Hear ye!
VASHTI: What's going on, Gilligan?
GILLIGAN: The Professor is VERY upset that you didn't come to his party, Vashti.
VASHTI: He'll get over it. I'm a famous actress, and also descended from royalty. I can't be expected to "jump" every time he calls my name.
GILLIGAN: Well, this is one time maybe you should have "jumped", Vashti. He's ordered that you be sent to Exile Island and has declared himself totally, completely, and irrevocably divorced from you!
VASHTI: Just because I didn't come to his silly party.
GILLIGAN: Exactly! I'm afraid you'll have to pack all your belongings and get ready to go.
In the meanwhile, he's looking for a new Queen and has ordered all of the young and beautiful women to report to his presence. From that group of women he'll choose a new Queen.
(Professor goes to the beach umbrella and sits down. Haman stands beside him. Gilligan goes to the beach umbrella and stands there, too.)
(Zeresh Howell & Esther Ann report to the Professor's Beach Umbrella area - standing in front of the empty chair)
ZERESH: You-Who! Oh, Professor! We're here, just like you requested.
(Haman walks over and stands beside of Zeresh)
HAMAN: Lovie, dear, He said he wanted someone "younger".
ZERESH: I am young, Haman. Just look at this complexion. It's flawless.
HAMAN: Maybe for a prune!
ZERESH: The Professor said I looked 38 ...
HAMAN: What? Is he mentally challenged?
(Professor gets up and walks over to examine Esther-Ann and Zeresh)
PROFESSOR: Mrs. Howell, you're a fine specimen of a woman, but I'm not sure it would be exactly legal for me to marry you - when you're already married to Mr. Howell.
ZERESH: Oh, well! You can't blame a girl for trying.
(Haman & Zeresh return to their hut; Gilligan goes and gets crown from Vashti's head & puts it on Esther)
Narrator: So, Professor Ahashuerus, the King of Shushan Isle, chose Esther-Ann Mordechai to be his new queen, replacing Vashti Grant, the renowned actress from the Royal Shakespearian Theatre Company - and descendant of King Nebuchadnezzar. He set a royal crown on Esther-Ann's head, making her queen instead of Vashti.
VASHTI: It's too bad that Charlton Heston isn't here. I could use an old fashioned miracle! (Looking at Professor) May all of your teeth fall out - except one - so you can have a toothache!
(Vashti picks up her luggage and walks to the ocean - sets her luggage down - picks up the bottle from the water - opening it and taking the note out) What's this? (Pretending to read) S - O - S! We've been ship-wrecked and are stranded on Island. Please come rescue us. The S.S. Minnow. (Pretending to read) I think I'll keep this for myself! (Vashti puts note in bottle and tucks bottle under her arm, picks up luggage again)
(Vashti heads to Exile Island - looking back over her shoulder several times as she walks away. She sits down in the Exile Island chairs.)
Vashti, You Should Have Listened
Tune: Take Me Out to the Ballgame
Lyrics: Curtis & CarolynNow Vashti should have listened
When the Professor called you
He wanted to show off his beautiful Queen,
How could you have done such a horrible thing?
Now, you're off to Exile Island,
Looking for something to do,
For it's 1, 2, 3 strikes you're out,
On Shushan Isle.
Vashti, What will the girls think?
And what will they do?"
If he lets you slide without punishing you,
What in the world will the other girls do?
Now you're off, you're off of the Island,
Looking for something to do,
For it's 1, 2, 3 strikes you're out,
On Shushan Isle.(Professor returns to his chair and sits down. Esther-Ann and Gilligan go to the Skipper's Hut.)
ESTHER-ANN: (Esther-Ann walks over and hugs Skipper) Cousin Mordechai, did you hear the news? The Professor has ousted Vashti to Exile Island and has chosen me for his new queen. I didn't really want to be queen - much less his wife.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Yes, I have heard, my dear. News like that travels fast - even here on Shushan Isle. I understand what you're saying about not wanting to be the new queen, too, Esther-Ann, and I feel the same, but Adonai seems to have other plans for your life.
(Esther-Ann returns to the Ladies' Hut) (Two Headhunters walk to boat and look toward the Professor)
NARRATOR: One day while Skipper Mordechai was walking past the lagoon, he saw two head-hunter natives from a nearby island, preparing to capture Professor Ahashuerus and take him back to their island - for breakfast - if you know what I mean! (Skipper stands & looks at Headhunters) The Skipper jumped in, rescued the Professor, and sent the head-hunters fleeing from Shushan Isle - back to Exile Island. (Headhunters look at Skipper - jump - then run back to Exile Island; They stir pot)
(Gilligan walks to the Beach Umbrella. The Professor is writing in the Book of the Chronicles)
GILLIGAN: Hey, Professor. What are you doing?
PROFESSOR: I'm writing a book about the Chronicles of our adventures and experiences since we landed here on the Island.
GILLIGAN: No kidding?
PROFESSOR: I think it's a book that people will buy when we're rescued, don't you?
GILLIGAN: Sure! I'd buy one! I'm dying to find out what happens to us.
PROFESSOR: (Annoyed) Oh, Gilligan!
(Gilligan walks back to the Skipper's Hut)
(Haman & Zerish report to the Professor's Umbrella.)
NARRATOR: It was sometime after that when Professor Ahashuerus decided to honor Haman Howell III.
HAMAN: I'm willing to serve in whatever HIGHER office you are willing to designate.
PROFESSOR: Well, there's Secretary of Labor, Secretary of Defense, and Secretary of State.
HAMAN: A Howell would never be the "Secretary" of ANYTHING! With my background, I think the ideal job for me would be Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
PROFESSOR: That's a very important position. Have you had any legal experience?
HAMAN: The government has investigated me six time in Anti-trust suits - and I've been investigated every year for income tax evasion.
PROFESSOR: Well, that's good enough for me. Any man that can stay out of jail with a record like that has got to know something about the law.
NARRATOR: So the Professor elevated Haman - giving him a seat of honor higher than all others on the island. As he walked with Zerish around the island, everyone would bow slightly, showing them great respect and honor. Everyone that is except for Skipper Mordechai who would not bow or pay him honor.
(Haman & Zerish walk over to the Skipper's Hut. Gilligan bows his head and bows slightly.)
HAMAN: Why aren’t you bowing to me, Captain? Don’t you know who I am?
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Yes, I know who you are. You were on my cruise, remember!
HAMAN: Yes, and look where that got us. Regardless of that, the Professor has made me, Haman Howell III, his second in command. Who said money couldn't buy you happiness?
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Are you saying you bought your position with the Professor?
HAMAN: Of course not, Captain! But I might have promised him a few grants and endowments if we ever get off of this island and return to Persia-Media.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: God should strike me dead first, Haman, should I EVER bow to you! Yes, I know who you are - there's only six of us on Shushan Isle now that Vashti has been exiled. I also know who I am. I’m Skipper Benjamin Mordechai. I'm a Jew, and I bow before no one but Adonai.
HAMAN: (Whining) But I OWN several banks in Persia-Media!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: I know that - and I'm still not impressed. You know what they say about banks, don't you? A bank is a place that will lend you money, if you can prove that you don't need it. I've never had much use for banks, either!
(Haman and Zeresh "huff & puff" off and return to their hut.)
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Some people bring happiness wherever they go - others WHENEVER they go.
(Zeresh sits, Haman stands beside of her.)
NARRATOR: Haman was furious! He looked for a way to destroy Skipper Mordechai and any other Jews living on Shushan Isle.
HAMAN: Lovie, I've got to do something about that Captain. He makes me so mad. If I could just contact those head-hunters on the other island, maybe they'd be interested in taking him off of our hands. They wouldn't even have to fatten him up before they cook him!
ZERESH: Oh, Haman! That's your worst idea, ever!
HAMAN: Then I think I'll go to the Professor and see if I can get rid of the Captain and any other Jews on the Island. There's bound to be some lie I can tell that will cause him to side with me.
(Haman goes to the Professor's Beach Umbrella.)
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Well, hello there, Haman. How are you this find evening.
HAMAN: I've been better, Professor. There are some people on this island who have been complaining about you being the king and I've discovered that they do not obey your laws. These “Jews” are vermin and I'm almost positive they were the ones who attempted to turn you over to the head hunters on the nearby island. They're the reason for every problem that has come upon us all since we started this cruise! If it pleases you, Professor, let a decree be issued to destroy them.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Well, since we banished Queen Vashti Grant, there's not too many of us left to do the work that needs to be done, Haman. But if they really were in a conspiracy with the head-hunters as you have said, we have no choice but to get rid of them. We're all in danger if I don't do it. I’ll give you the signet ring from my finger. Do with these people as you please.
(The Professor takes his signet ring off of his finger and places it on Haman's finger)
HAMAN: 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.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: But we don't have any children on this island!
HAMAN: (Walking out and looking at the small kids in the audience)
True, True! Anyway, I’ve 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.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Plunder their goods? We're not exactly pirates here, Haman.
HAMAN: How do you think I acquired half of my fortune? Acquisitions and bankruptcies - plundering the goods of the less fortunate. (Yelling toward Skipper and Gilligan's Hut) Gillian, Gilligan, come over here, quickly.
(Haman & Gilligan go to Professor's Umbrella) (Haman gets "Kill the Jews" sign off of table)
HAMAN: (Handing Gilligan the "Kill the Jews" Sign) Gillian, my boy! It's been discovered that there are Jews living here on Shushan Isle who conspired with the dreaded head-hunters on the nearby island to have the Professor captured - and eaten! The Professor has given the order that they be killed and utterly destroyed.
GILLIGAN: (Turning away from Haman and talking to himself) Does he know that the Skipper, Esther-Ann and I are all Jews? (Talking to Haman Howell) OK, Mr. Howell, I'll do it if you say so, but I'm not so sure that it's a good idea.
(Gilligan carries the "KILL THE JEWS" Sign for all the audience to see - then returns to Skipper's Hut & lays it down)
NARRATOR: So Gilligan carried the decree all over Shushan Island. When Skipper Mordechai learned of all that had been done by Haman Howell, III, he tore his clothes, and put on sackcloth and ashes. Esther-Ann heard what Skipper was doing, and she went to see him.
(Esther-Ann goes to the Skipper's Hut)
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Esther-Ann, that evil Haman Howell III, has made plans to have all the Jews on Shushan Isle killed on the 13th day of Adar. You know what that means, don't you? You, Gilligan and I are in BIG trouble.
GILLIGAN: (In a frantic voice) Maybe we can just hide on the other side of the island!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Now's no time to panic, Gilligan.
GILLIGAN: It's as good a time as any!
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: No! I've got a better plan. Esther-Ann, you must go before Professor Ahashuerus to beg for mercy and plead for yourself and us.
ESTHER-ANN: But, Skipper, You know, any man or woman who approaches the Professor while he's working on his scientific research without being summoned could also be exiled from Shushan Isle, or even put to death if he's really angry. Thirty days have passed since even I was last called to go to the Professor.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Do not think that because you are the Professor's new queen that you will escape. If you remain silent at this time, Adonai will send relief and deliverance from another source, but you will perish. And who knows but that you have come to this position for such a time as this?
ESTHER-ANN: We need a miracle, Cousin Mordechai. You and Gilligan fast and pray for me. When this is done, I will go to the Professor, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.
SKIPPER MORDECHAI: Yes, my dear. We will fast and pray for you.
(Esther-Ann returns to the Ladies' Hut and puts on her royal robes. Skipper and Gilligan get down on their knees, fold their hands, and start to pray).
ESTHER-ANN
Tune: "Matchmaker"
Lyrics: Curtis & Carolyn
Esther-Ann, Esther-Ann, you smell so sweet,
From the top of your head,
To the soles of your feet,
Esther-Ann, Esther-Ann, I think you will be,
The one chosen by the King.
Esther-Ann, Esther-Ann, you are the one,
God has placed here, even better than a son,
Esther-Ann, Esther-Ann, go to his side,
Who you are, you cannot hide.
Oh, Cousin, I'll go before him,.
I'll do - what - you want me to do,
But, Cousin, I just can't tell him,
His brand new queen, was born a Jew!
Esther-Ann, Esther-Ann, you have to choose,
God has a plan, who He wants to use,
You have been chosen for such a time as this,
His will you don't want to miss!(Skipper returns to his seat and Gilligan stands beside him. Esther-Ann approaches the Professor)
NARRATOR: So Skipper Mordechai carried out all of Esther-Ann's instructions. On the third day, Esther-Ann put on her finest royal robes and approached the Professor at his beach umbrella. When the Professor saw Queen Esther-Ann standing in the court, he was pleased with her and motioned for her to approach. (Professor motions with his hand)
(The Professor stands)
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Welcome, my dear, Esther-Ann! It's an unexpected pleasure to see you, my dear. Why have you come?
ESTHER-ANN: If it pleases you, dear Professor, come to a banquet I have prepared for you … and bring Haman Howell, III, too.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: I'd love to come, my dear, and I know Haman will, too.
(The Professor, Esther-Ann & Haman go to the Ladies' Hut. Esther-Ann & the Professor sit, while Haman stands behind the Professor)
NARRATOR: So the Professor and Haman went to the banquet Esther-Ann had prepared.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: OK, my dear, we’re here. We've had a fine meal, now what do you want from me? I will give you anything you desire. What is your request? Anything you desire will be yours.
ESTHER-ANN: If you really are pleased with me, Professor, and if it pleases you to grant my petition, then come again tomorrow, along with Haman Howell, III, to another banquet I will prepare for you at the Beach Umbrella. Then I will answer your question.
(The Professor returns to the Beach Umbrella & sits and Haman returns to his hut)
NARRATOR: Haman left Esther-Ann's hut happy and in high spirits. He boasted to Zeresh about having won both the Professor and Esther-Ann's favor - he boasted about his vast wealth, and all the ways the Professor had honored him & how he had elevated him above all others on Shushan Isle.
HAMAN: And that’s not all. I’m the only person Esther-Ann invited to accompany the Professor to the banquet she gave today, and now she has invited me along with him again tomorrow to a banquet at the Beach Umbrella. (In an angry voice) All this gives me no satisfaction, however, as long as I see that Jew, Skipper Mordechai, refusing to bow to me.
ZERESH: Then just get rid of him! Have a gallows built and in the morning ask the Professor to have Skipper Mordechai hanged on it. Then go with the Professor to the banquet and be happy.
NARRATOR: This suggestion delighted Haman and he had the gallows built on Exile Island.
(Gallows built on Exile Island - 2 head-hunters approach and look around - standing guard)
NARRATOR: Some people never learn!
Mordechai's His Name
Tune: "Secret Agent Man"
Lyrics: Curtis & Carolyn
There's a man we know by name of Haman,
Who had a plan for the Jews,
He planned to hang 'em!
Mordechai was Haman's thorn,
He cursed the day he was born,
Odd are he won't live to see tomorrow.
Mordechai's his name,
Serving God's His game,
Haman tossed a dice to see,
The day you're gonna die...
Mordechai's his name,
Saving Jews His game.
Haman tossed a dice to see,
The day you're gonna die...
Mordechai's his name ...
Haman's men constructed a large gallows,
With plans to get rid of all those Jewish fellows,
He got Professor's decree,
Cause the Jews won't bow their knee,
Odd are they won't live to see tomorrow.
Mordechai's his name,
Serving God's his game,
Haman tossed a dice to see,
The day you're gonna die...
Mordechai's his name,
Saving Jes his game.
Haman tossed a dice to see,
The day you're gonna die...
Mordechai's his name...NARRATOR: That night the Professor couldn't sleep; so he ordered the Book Of The Chronicles of his reign to be read to him. Professor Ahashuerus found recorded how Skipper Benjamin Mordechai had exposed the two head-hunters who had attempted to capture him and take him back to their island.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: (The Professor yells to Gilligan) Gilligan, get up and come over here, immediately! (Gilligan goes to the Beach Umbrella) I totally forgot all about this situation. What honor and recognition has the Skipper received for saving my life from those vicious head-hunters?
GILLIGAN: Nothing has been done for him, Professor.
NARRATOR: Shortly after that Haman Howell, III, who had heard the commotion, entered the room.
(Haman goes to the Beach Umbrella)
GILLIGAN: What's all the noise? What's going on, Professor?
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Haman, What should be done for the man I wish to honor?
NARRATOR: Haman thought to himself …
HAMAN: (Haman turns his head and speaks to the audience) Who is there that the Professor would honor other than me? (Talking to the Professor) Well, my dear, dear, dear, dear, dear friend! If there is someone you desire to honor, then you should bring a royal robe that you have worn and give it to him to wear. Then let Gilligan robe the man that you desire to honor, and row him around the island, proclaiming what this man has done and how you delight to honor him.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Great idea, Haman! Go at once, take this robe and the boat and do just as you have suggested … for Skipper Mordechai. (Professor hands Haman the robe)
(Haman takes the robe, goes to the Skipper's hut, robes him, then leads him to the boat. They both get into the boat - pretending to sit - Haman pretends to row.)
NARRATOR: So Haman robed Skipper Mordechai, and rowed him around the island in the small boat, proclaiming...
HAMAN: This is what is done for the man the Professor desires to honor!
(Esther-Ann also goes to the Beach Umbrella and sits down; Haman goes to the Beach Umbrella and stands beside of Esther; Skipper returns to his hut)
NARRATOR: The next day the Professor and Haman went to dine with Esther-Ann.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Esther-Ann, now that we have completed our meal, what is your petition? I will give you anything that you desire.
ESTHER-ANN: If I have indeed found favor with you, dear Professor, and if it pleases you, spare my life—and spare my people.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Spare your life? Why? Would any man on this island dare to do any kind of harm to you? Who is he? Tell me who he is!
ESTHER-ANN: I'm Jewish, Professor. The one I'm speaking about is this man, Haman Howell, III.
(An angered Professor stands, and walks over to the boat)
NARRATOR: Haman was terrified and began to tremble. The king got up in a rage and walked down to the beach. Haman, realizing that the Professor had already decided his fate, stayed behind to beg Queen Esther-Ann for his life.
(Haman falls to his knees beside of Esther-Ann and grabs her by the foot; The Professor returns to the Beach Umbrella)
NARRATOR: Just as the Professor returned from the beach to the Beach Umbrella, Haman Howell, III, was falling on his knees beside where Esther-Ann was sitting, attempting to persuade her to change her mind concerning his fate.
(Gilligan, the Skipper and Mrs. Howell come to the Beach Umbrella)
NARRATOR: The noise had aroused everyone on the island. Gilligan, the Skipper and Zeresh Howell rushed to the Beach Umbrella.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Will you even molest Queen Esther-Ann in my presence? I know Esther-Ann is a beautiful girl, but she’s also my wife! And you're a married man, Mr. Howell!
ZERESH: Oh, Haman, How could you?
HAMAN: (Looking at Zeresh) Lovie, I've been framed! Framed, I tell you. If anything happens to me, I want to thank you for 15 of the happiest years a man ever had.
ZERES: But Haman, We've been married 20 years!
HAMAN: Oh! (Pause) Oh, Yes! That's right!
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: What am I to do with you, Haman?
GILLIGAN: There is a gallows built by Haman on Exile Island. He had it built for Shipper Mordechai, who spoke up and saved your life. Haman's also the one that encouraged you to have Vashti Grant banished to Exile Island.
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Then, Hang him on it! …and good riddance! And Mrs. Howell, I don't think you should remain on Shushan Island either. Perhaps you need to join Vashti Grant. You should have never married THAT man!
ZERESH: That's what mama always told me, too!
(Zeresh goes to Exile Island
Gilligan takes Haman to Exile Island. When Gilligan sees the 2 headhunters. He takes the signet ring)
GILLIGAN: You're on your own, Haman! I'm out of here!
HEADHUNTER 1: Yum-Yum! Eat 'em up!
(Gilligan runs back to the Beach Umbrella. The Headhunters take Haman by the arm and put him in Pot)
NARRATOR: So that was the end of Haman Howell III.
It had been a difficult time for the Jews living in Persia-Media during the Babylonian captivity, but even harder for those who were marooned on Shushan Isle with the evil Haman Howell, III living there, too. God never left them or forgot about them. They had always been, and will always be the Apple of His Eye.
Monarchs, kings, presidents and rulers will come and go, empires will rise and fall, but Adonai, Blessed be He, will always be in everlasting covenant with the seed of Israel.
NARRATOR: That same day the Professor found out that Skipper Mordechai was Esther-Ann's cousin and guardian.
(Professor, Esther-Ann, Gilligan & Skipper are all at the Beach Umbrella)
PROFESSOR AHASHUERUS: Skipper, so you're Esther's cousin and guardian? ... and a Jew, too? How could I have been so foolish to have believed Haman. (Gets ring from Gilligan) Here is my signet ring. You shall be my new 2nd in Command. On Shushan Isle, only I will be higher in authority.
(Professor gives Skipper his signet ring)
NARRATOR: The Professor took off his signet ring, and presented it to Skipper Mordechai.
NARRATOR: The Professor wrote a new law that granted the Jews the right to assemble and protect themselves.
NARRATOR: Everyone on Shushan Isle held a joyous celebration. For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor. The Skipper was prominent in island leadership and his reputation spread throughout the neighboring islands, and he became more and more powerful. Even the head-hunters knew his name and feared him - they chose never to return to Shushan Isle.
NARRATOR: Haman had plotted against the Jews to destroy them and had cast the “pur” (that is, the lot) for their destruction. But when the Professor Ahashuerus found out, he issued written orders that the evil scheme Haman had devised against the Jews should come back onto his own head, and he definitely reaped what he had sown all of his life. 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 Skipper 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.
Skipper Mordechai, the Jew, was second in rank to Professor Ahashuerus, and was held in high esteem 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.
SHUSHAN ISLE - CLOSING
Tune: Gilligan's Island
So this is the tale of our castaways,
They're here for a long, long time.
They'll have to make the best of things,
It's an uphill climb.
The first made and his Skipper, too,
Will do their very best,
To make the others comfortable,
In their tropic island nest.
(Pause)
No phone, no lights, no motor car,
Not a single luxury,
Like Robinson Crusoe,
It's privative as can be>
So join us here each year my friends,
You're sure to get a smile,
From seven stranded castaways,
Here on Shushan Isle!FINAL BEACH UMBRELLA SCENE
Skipper (standing), Esther-Ann (seated), Professor (seated), Gilligan (standing)
Want to take a look at our impromptu performance of "Shushan Isle'
Check out the Video Links below: (Available at the end of March 2012)
Purim Play "Shushan Isle" Videos
Part 1, CLICK HERE Part 5, CLICK HERE Introduction of Characters:
Esther-Ann Mordechai, Skipper Benjamin Mordechai, Gilbert Gilman Gilligan-ski, Professor Ahashuerus,
Vashti Grant, Haman Howell III, Zeresh "Lovie" Howell, Head Hunter 1, Head Hunter 2Part 2, CLICK HERE Part 6, CLICK HERE Part 3, CLICK HERE Part 7, CLICK HERE Part 4, CLICK HERE Part 8, CLICK HERE "Shushan Isle" Characters:
Narrator
Esther-Ann Mordechai
Skipper Benjamin Mordechai
Gilbert Gilman Gilligan-ski
Professor Ahashuerus
Vashti Grant
Haman Howell III
Zeresh "Lovie" Howell
Head Hunter 1
Head Hunter 2Shushan Isle 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-Ann: Blue Jeans (rolled up), white sneakers, short-sleeved shirt (tied in front), pig-tails, fancy dress for when she becomes Queen
Skipper Benjamin Mordechai: Skipper Hat, Khaki pants, Blue polo shirt or T-Shirt [We got the Skipper Hat on the Internet]
Gilbert Gilman Gilligan-ski: Blue Jeans, Red long-sleeved Polo shirt (with white collar if possible) [We used a long sleeved red T-shirt], Gilligan hat (Bucket hat) [We got the Bucket Hat on the Internet]
Professor Ahashuerus: Khaki pants, long-sleeve light-blue shirt with sleeves rolled up.
Vashti Grant: Ball Gown, High Heels, Sunglasses, Long white gloves, Red Wig [We used a long white skirt we found at a thrift store and a white short-sleeved blouse; we got the white gloves and red wig from PARTY CITY]
Haman Howell III: Straw Fedora Hat (from Wal-Mart), Hawaiian Shirt (or coat and shirt), Ascot
Zeresh Howell: Nice dress or quit, Hat, short gloves, umbrella, necklace
Headhunters: Grass skirt [From PARTY CITY] over khaki shorts, barefooted, Adult Muscle Shirt [$20 from PARTY CITY - or make your own with a T-shirt and some paints], Bone Necklace, Face paint, spear, Headhunter hat from artificial greenery and feathers [made on top of a cheap hat from DOLLAR TREE]Stage Layout Scenes & Props
(6 Scenes) Mordechai & Gilligan's Hut Lawn Chairs
Small table
Hammock
Trunk
Boat WheelPalace - Professor's Beach Umbrella Beach Umbrella & stand
Small table
2 Wicker Chairs
Vashti/Esther's Room Metal Patio Furniture (Wicker if possible)
Trunk or Chest
Lanterns
Plants
Howell's Hut
Wicker love-seat
Small table
Trunk or chest
Life preserver
Plants
Beach Scene
Beach Scene order from STUMPS on the Internet
Cardboard "USS MINNOW" or Small boat
Artificial trees and plants
Blue tarp to extend the ocean from photo onto floor
Table Scene
Rectangular Table
Grass skirt around sides (from PARTY CITY)
7 folding chairs
Purim Play Notes
Our congregation started fairly small. Since the group was small, parts were not memorized beforehand, but instead wereassigned 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. We now have about 100 in attendance for Purim, but we've chosen to still keep the parts spontaneous and impromptu. 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 midis can be downloaded if you Right-Click with your mouse, then click "Save Target As".
1. Gilligan's Isle - Intro 2. Vashti, You Should Have Listened [Take Me Out to the Ballgame] 3. Esther-Ann [Matchmaker] 4. Mordechai's His Name [Secret Agent Man]
