Many students would say that an iconic part of CESJDS Purim tradition is the annual Purim spiel. Teachers collaborate to form their take on the classic Purim story while incorporating elements of pop culture and humor to produce a 40-minute show that has resonated with students since its creation.
High School Jewish Life Chair Robbie Shorr has acted in the spiel for years. Shorr believes that the spiel is an important part of the school’s Purim traditions, as it provides teachers with an opportunity to poke fun at each other and their students, and adds to the cheer and celebration of the day.
“[JDS] has all of these programs that reflect what’s going on in the Jewish calendar,” Shorr said. “It makes me reflect on how special it is to be here, and the spiel is a real highlight of that experience.”
There are several factors that go into organizing the production. One of the most important elements is the humor and pop culture references involved. In order to ensure the school covers topics that are relevant and that resonate with the students, a form is sent out that allows students to offer their suggestions for content. Sometimes this isn’t enough, and teachers will often meet with students one-on-one to discuss topics.
Despite the student form being sent out a few weeks prior to Purim, which this year was on March 14, the actual writing process is a lot more rushed. The majority of the script is written by Dean of Experiential Leadership and Service Learning Tori Ball, but a handful of teachers participate in the production.
“It’s a very last-minute process,” Ball said.” A lot of people assume a lot of work goes in way ahead of time, but it is usually put together in the last 24 to 36 hours.”
Ball feels that the Purim spiel allows students to see their teachers in a different light, and appreciate their different skill sets outside of teaching. The play is consistently loved by students and teachers alike, even if the faculty doesn’t always understand what they’re saying, as many of the jokes come from students.
“I think it’s great because there’s a lot of teachers here who are really talented on stage, and it’s nice to give students the opportunity to enjoy that,” Ball said. “It’s gotten better and funnier over time, but I think the teachers understand less of it.”
The Purim spiel has featured all sorts of references in the past. Whether it’s pop icons like Taylor Swift, or slang phrases like slay, the sheer variety of jokes ensures they’ll land.
Student anticipation for the spiel is high according to freshman Megan Poretsky, as the play’s reputation has grown over the years.
“I can’t wait to see the Purim Spiel for the first time as a high school student,” Poretsky said. “Getting to see all of my new teachers perform will be so much fun.”
