May the ‘farweilung’ be with you at Youngstown temple show

By LINDA M. LINONIS

linonis@vindy.com

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.

The rabbi said another positive aspect of the production is how it brings together youth and adults of the congregation.

Jeff Simon, synagogue president, plays Ham Solo. Comments are made about his name “not being kosher” and “sounding like a sandwich.”

“I like to participate in as many temple events as I can,” Simon said. “This is fun for everyone.”

Simon added he likes his character because “it’s a masculine role, and I get to wear a leather jacket.”

Arthur Greenbaum, vice president of the synagogue, plays Yohudah. A radiation oncologist, Greenbaum said participating in the play lets him “be a kid again.” “I like my character because he’s a teacher,” he said.

Figuring out his costume was a bit of a challenge when it came to the rubbery, over-sized ears that he wears.

Harvey Kayne portrays Ahashuerus the Hut and the challenge is in the costume for a large, slug-like alien. “I’m figuring it out,” he said.

Kayne, who serves on the board of trustees, said being in the play is “something to do for the temple.” He added that he appreciates that the play involves youth of the synagogue. “They’re the future.”

Marina Levy plays the role of Jewbacca. “I love being in plays and I love acting,” the 11-year-old said, adding “being with my friends” was another plus. “I like being in the fluffy costume.”

Hannah Kunkel plays the princess. “The rabbi asked me, and I wanted to because I love acting,” the 12-year-old said. She’s working on the unusual hairstyle.

Joshua Greenbaum plays Luke Bageleater. The 12-year-old said he “enjoys acting” and “being with my friends.” Joshua also said he would like to be a Jedi and wield “the force” because he’s a fan of Star Wars.

In the role of Hebwoks are Hively family siblings — Tres, 7; Blythe, 5; and Ezra, 3, who wear fuzzy, cute costumes and sound the shofar (ram’s horn). They’re the children of Melissa and Aaron Hively.

Reservations, due by 4 p.m. Tuesday, are required to attend; call the temple office at 330-744-5001. Come in a Star Wars costume.