Wonderful commentary! As a Christian who grew up in a largely Jewish area and has studied the Hebrew Bible, I knew about Purim (Esther, Ahasuarus, Mordecai and Haman) and the tradition of costumes, but not the Purim spiels — thank you! And happy Purim!
Thank you. I just this minute took my Hamentaschen (the traditional triangular pastry you have on Purim, reminding us of the shape of the Grand Vizier Haman's hat) out of the oven. I tasted one. Mmmmm. Totally yum!
Yes, the Purim spiels are little acts or skits which turn reality on its head, such as "President Bernie" having "Secretary of State" Tlaib and other improbable situations which bring laughter. Lots of people make up poems which are silly, printing them on cards or papers put in with the goodies in the goodies bag. It is a very fun holiday where you can really let your hair (or wig) down a bit and be silly.