I Guess That’s Why They Call It a Spiel

Spiel Summary

Number of Roles: 6 leads, 8 supporting, large ensemble
Number of Songs: 9
Run time: 45-60 mins
Script Sample: Click here
Package Includes: Script, karaoke tracks, example tracks, poster, sheet music
Also Available: Lyrics Handout, Lyrics Slideshow
Frequently Asked Questions

I Guess That’s Why They Call It A Spiel tells the inspirational story of Esther, Haman, Vashti, Ahashverosh and Mordechai with hilarious parodies of hits by Elton John! This family-friendly spiel will keep you laughing with non-stop jokes, and bring our sacred scripture to life for your entire community.

Here is the complete list of songs parodied in that version:

  • Your Song (King)

  • Bennie and the Jets (Vashti)

  • Crocodile Rock (Esther)

  • Pinball Wizard (Haman)

  • Can You Feel the Love Tonight (Haman)

  • I Guess That’s Why They Call it the Blues (Mordechai)

  • Rocketman (Haman)

  • I’m Still Standing (Ensemble)

  • Take Me to the Pilot (Solo, Ensemble)

Testimonials

I think I may have mentioned that I was reluctant to take on your Shpiel because I was afraid it would be too complicated for us at the 11th hour, but even without making my players memorize the lines & the lyrics, it was wonderful to have the digital lyrics for the audience to join in on, the Elton John music was so fun and accessible, everyone loved it, and the dialogue got lots of laughs - it was just the right length, we really didn’t have to cut very much and we fit it into the 45 minute Sunday morning slot - had a full house and wonderful feedback. Thank you so much!!

— Cantor Jennifer Bern-Vogel, Congregation Emanu El, Redlands, CA

Great job!  It was awesome.  People LOVED it!

— Scott Kumer, Chicago Sinai Congregation, Chicago, IL

So incredibly proud of these kids! Thank you, Jamie Marx for a great script!

— Cantor Rhoda Harrison, Congregation M’kor Shalom, Cherry Hill, NJ