The Totally Rad ‘80s Spiel

Spiel Summary

Number of Roles: 7 leads, 7 supporting, large ensemble
Number of Songs: 11
Run time: 1 hour
Script Sample: Click here
Package Includes: Script, karaoke tracks, example tracks, poster, sheet music
Also Available: Lyrics Handout, Lyrics Slideshow, Bonus Songs
Frequently Asked Questions

The Totally Rad '80s Spiel is a wacky, funny, and faithful take on the story of Esther, Haman, Vashti, Ahashverosh and Mordechai! Featuring parodies of your favorite '80s hits, this script and score will have you laughing and tapping your feet! 

You'll love the parodies of songs like "Thriller," "Like a Virgin," "Love Shack," and "Little Red Corvette" and the blend of slapstick and sincerity that conveys the spirit of Purim and the heroism of Esther! 

Here’s the complete list of songs parodied:

  • Thriller (Ensemble)

  • Like a Virgin (Haman)

  • Love Shack (King, Esther)

  • Little Red Corvette (Esther)

  • When Doves Cry (Esther)

  • Don't You Forget About Me (Ensemble)

  • Sister Christian (Solo)

  • Jessie's Girl (King)

  • I Melt With You (Mordechai)

  • Everybody Wants to Rule the World (Bigtan, Teresh)

  • Girls (Beastie Boys) (Haman)

New This Year!

The Totally Rad ‘80s Spiel: 30 Minute Edition

Our most popular show, edited and condensed for communities looking for a spiel that can be done in 30 mins or less! Parodying the following songs:

  1. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson (Ensemble)

  2. “Love Shack” by B-52’s (Esther)

  3. “Like a Virgin” by Madonna (Haman)

  4. “Fame” by Irene Cara (Haman)

  5. “Don’t You Forget About Me” by Simple Minds (Ensemble)

Click here to view a script sample.

Testimonials

Tremendous gratitude to my awesome friend and classmate Cantor Jamie Marx for another absolutely fantastic Purim Shpiel. Absolutely brilliant.

— Cantor Mary Thomas, Temple Beth El, Charlotte, NC

I wanted to thank you again for the 80s Spiel, which was a huge hit in our congregation. I especially liked the way that you package everything so nicely, between the script, the score, and the karaoke tracks. We used it all and really appreciated your attention to detail and knowledge on what synagogues need to put on a successful spiel. One adaptation that we did was that we cast our youth choir as the collective "Annoying Ministers" and they stole the show -- and they only had to learn one song! :) 

— Cantor Lauren Phillips Fogelman , Temple Israel of Northern Westchester

The 80's Purim Spiel was a great success!! Thank you Cantor Liz Flynn and all who participated for a fantastic production!!!!! And thanks to Cantor Jamie Marx for the excellent script!!

— Rabbi Elisa Koppel, Congregation Beth Emeth, Wilmington, DE

Sample Video