What if Jerome Robbins, Leonard Bernstein and Steven Sondheim collaborated to write a Purim schpiel?
Well, that’s not going to happen. 

Instead we have Congregation Beth Israel’s own retelling of the Biblical Book of Esther: 
West Side Schpiel

Starring the clergy, staff and the volunteer choir of CBI, “West Side Schpiel” is the story of star-crossed lovers caught between the warring factions of uptown Shushan. A parody of one of the most beautiful and beloved Broadway musicals, “West Side Schpiel” brings a hilarious new telling to the ancient tale.

Congregation Beth Israel’s annual Purim Schpiels have become a highlight of the year. These original productions fulfill the ancient Jewish custom of retelling our familiar story in new and engaging ways. Through clever rewording of the lyrics, the shows bring humor and joy to our community. Past productions have included “The Jews Brothers,” “Blazing Schpiel” and the “Pirates of Purim.” Scenes from these and others are on the synagogue’s web site: www.bethisrael-pdx.org 

The schpiel is free and open to the community.