Ready to perform?

The Purim Shpiel is a tradition going back to Talmudic times, when it was less of a play, than "performance art." Here's one description:

"The boys make a figure of Haman and hang it from the roof four or five days before Purim. On Purim itself, they make a bonfire and throw the figure into the fire. They throw a lot of salt on it [obviously saltpeter - something explosive] so that it will make noise and the boys stand around and sing joyous songs. They also hang a big hoop over the fire and jump through it from one side of the fire to the other."

- Teshuvat HaGaonim

There was always a blurry line between play and carnival. All antics were performances. The Purim play developed through the Middle Ages in Europe until the 15th and 16th centuries in Italy, where it gave rise to a true Jewish theater.

More broadly, Purim was an opportunity for the talented of the community to increase the joy of the holiday with hilarious skits and plays. In Europe, yeshiva bachurs (students) produced Purim plays which parodied their learning. Troupes of Purim players would travel from house to house, perform their skits, and pass around the kitty. The homeowner was drunk and merry, and usually gave generously.

Today, purim shpiel continue to satirize current events and community affairs. Children join in the fun in their school Purim plays.