Scene 1
Narrator
The setting is the palace of King Ahasuerus. The king is surrounded by his wise men and Haman as he sits on the throne.
Haman
My king, your decision to do away with your disobedient wife Vashti was very wise. This kingdom offers many beautiful who desire to prove their worthiness to you and who will submit to your will.
Ahasuerus
Organize a beauty pageant at once so I may choose the fairest woman for my new bride, Ah … it’s good to be King!
Scene 2
Narrator
Meanwhile in a nearby village …
Mordecai
My dear niece Ester, your position next to King Ahasuerus as his queen would help our people be aware of the evil plans towards the Jews. Please sign up for that training course on “How to marry a Persian King.” You can use me as one of your “lifelines”.
Esther
I’ll agree to enter the contest. I will do what is necessary for the safety of my people. But, I won’t wear a bikini. I won’t tell anyone that I am Jewish.
Scene 3
Narrator
The parade of beauties is held in front of the King. Esther wins hands down! She and the King are married and Esther is crowned Queen [put crown on Esther ] Later that same day …
Haman
Your majesty, there are people among us who refuse to bow down to us and are trying to cause the collapse of your kingdom. They are very dangerous. I feel we must do away with them.
Ahasuerus
[While taking off his ring and giving it to Haman ] You have my permission to kill whoever these people are.
Haman
[playing dice surrounded by his friends] Ok, a one will stand for Monday and a six for Saturday. [Haman throws the dice] All right, three – Let the killing of the Jews commence Wednesday. Let’s see … that falls on Purim, the 14th of Adar.
Scene 4
Narrator
Unknown to the King and Haman, Mordecai overhears this conversation and runs to tell Queen Esther. [Setting is a side room away from the throne]
Mordecai
You must convince the King to stop the war against the Jews. Take him some of those hamantaschen you baked for last weeks Hadassah luncheon.
Esther
It is a very dangerous task you ask of me. I shall pray and fast for three days. [whispers] I hope your plan works.
Scene 5
Narrator
Following the dinner party, the queen asks for admittance to King Ahasuerus’ throne. When he sees his beautiful Esther, he lowers his scepter to allow her to enter.
Esther
My generous king, I beg of you — Don’t kill the Jews. You would have to kill me as well … for you see I am also a Jew. Besides, if you check your Book of Records you will find that my uncle Mordecai saved your life.
Scene 6
Narrator
The next day the king receives Haman in his Royal Chamber.
Ahasuerus
You know Haman I was reading in the Book of Records last night and I saw I never properly thanked the person who saved my life. What should be done for such a hero?
Haman
Why, I believe he should be allowed to ride your beloved horse throughout Shushan for all to see.
Ahasuerus
Fine. Go fetch a saddle large enough for Mordecai the Jew.
Haman
But … but … Surely you jest sire !
Ahasuerus
Do as I say … and don’t call me Shirley!
Scene 7
Narrator
The battle takes place on Purim day. Under the fearless direction of Mordecai, the Jews are victorious. Following the victory the King walks over to his men. [Setting is on the outside grounds of the palace]
Ahasuerus
Take Haman to the gallows that he prepared for Mordecai. Haman and his sons are the ones that will hang from these gallows! Have Esther make some hamentashen for the celebration to follow.
Ahasuerus, Esther & Mordecai
YES !!!
Narrator
And the Jews were respected throughout Persia after the whole Megillah was over.