Esther’s ‘80s Prom:
The Megillah According to John Hughes

Spiel Summary

Number of Roles: 9 speaking roles
Run time: 90 minutes
Script Sample: Click here
Package Includes: Script, poster, director’s notes, and Spotify playlist link.
Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for a unique Purim experience for your community? Esther's '80s Prom is an immersive, interactive Purim experience that puts your guests in the heart of the story!

Esther's '80s Prom tells the famous Bible story in the style of a John Hughes film like "Sixteen Candles" and "The Breakfast Club." Esther is captain of the soccer team, Rosh is Prom King, and Mordechai is president of the Jewish Student Union, and your guests are all students attending the prom with them. The drama begins when Rosh decides that Vashti isn't prom queen material and takes matters into his own hands.

What makes Esther's '80s Prom different than a regular spiel?

Instead of sitting and watching the spiel in theater-style seating, your congregants attend the 1986 Shushan High School Prom along with Esther, Mo, Rosh, Haman, and Vashti! 

You'll dance to your favorite '80s hits and watch the drama unfold in between songs. Esther's '80s Prom is a faithful retelling of the Book of Esther, translated into the world of a classic John Hughes film. 

Wait, where are the parody songs?

Esther's '80s Prom is an interactive play instead of the typical parody spiel. If you're looking for a hilarious, family-friendly '80s-themed Purim spiel with parodies of your favorite '80s songs, you'll want to buy The Totally Rad '80s Spiel for your community. 

Is this a family-friendly show?

Esther's '80s Prom is primarily intended for teens and adults. The story addresses modern anti-Semitism and Jewish stereotypes in a way that may be challenging for younger guests. The language, content, and humor are absolutely appropriate for a synagogue setting. If you have any questions, please send me an email

Can I put on this spiel in my sanctuary/social hall/multi-purpose room/basement closet/shoe box?

Yes! The space needs to be big enough for however many guests you're expecting, but you can stage the acted scenes in the middle of the room, on a stage, in a corner, or on a bima! 

Can we talk about how it might work in my community?

Absolutely. Email me with your questions or to set up a time to talk on the phone.