Jewish temple prepares to present 'Star Wars Purim'

YOUNGSTOWN

The premise of the “Star Wars” franchise employs the age-old struggle between good and evil in a galaxy far, far away.

On planet Earth at Congregation Rodef Sholom, members are starry-eyed about participating in “Star Wars Purim,” a take-off on the “Star War” movies.

The latest release, “Star Wars, The Force Awakens,” created a new wave of fans and renewed interest in long-time enthusiasts. For Rabbi Franklin Muller, the idea of “good triumphing over evil” parallels the story of Esther, told at Purim.

“It was a natural,” the rabbi said.

Purim begins at sundown Wednesday and ends at sundown Thursday. Rodef Sholom will have its Purim celebration Friday with a meal, short service and then the play, “Star Wars Purim.”

Esther’s story in Hebrew is known as the “Megillah” or scroll. It relates the story of Esther, who was born a Hebrew girl called Hadassah. She finds favor with the Persian king, Ahasuerus, and he marries her. Her cousin, Mordecai, fostered her when her parents died; and he was an adviser to the king after thwarting an assassination plot.

Haman, another adviser, plots against Mordecai, who would not bow down to him, and the Jewish people because they had different customs. Esther reveals to the king that she is Jewish and tells him about Haman’s hatred of Mordecai and Jews. The king executes Haman for his treachery.

Rabbi Muller said he noticed other synagogues around the country preparing takeoffs on Star Wars for Purim and thought it would be a good idea. He’s worked on the project since last December, writing the script and working out the music.

In “Star Wars Purim,” Darth Haman (a takeoff of the evil Haman in Esther’s story) represents the dark side of the force, the rabbi explained. “He wants to rule the empire and make Jews his slaves,” the rabbi said. Darth Haman wants to kidnap Princess Leah Sara Rivka Rachel.

This is not Rabbi Muller’s first foray into the theatrical realm. “I’ve done other plays over the years,” he said. The projects have included “Flintstein,” “Jew-assic Park, “Phantom of the Pulpit” and the “Wizard of Oy.” “I enjoy the creative side of this,” said the rabbi, who plays the guitar and sings.

Read more about the rabbi and the presentation in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.