NARRATOR

A few months go by…Spring, Summer… It’s still warm outside, but inside Jo’s heart, it feels very cold indeed.

JO

People say I’m doing wrong,

but my mind just draws a blank.

He’s never murdered anyone,

he’s never robbed a bank.

He’s not much different from my Christian friends,

he believes in God and stuff.

Yet I’m made to feel this isn’t right,

and life right now is tough.

(pause)

My Christian mates are frowning,

my parents are getting frantic,

but having someone who loves you,

is fab and so romantic!

It’s lonely being single

and seeing others kissing.

Those who are alone,

don’t know what they’re missing.

The night club isn’t so bad.

It was really good this week.

I’m kinda getting settled

into their friendly clique.

(pause)

The cocaine was passed around,

but when the bag came by,

no-one pressured me to take some,

so I turned a blind eye.

(Long pause as she looks up thoughtfully)

I might miss church for a bit

and go back when I’m older.

Right now, I want a capital ‘M’

tattooed upon my shoulder.

(Becoming arrogant)

All this fuss!

I hate being provoked!

I hate being told

I’m unequally yoked!

(She shrugs her shoulders.)

Yeah, yeah, Jesus loves me –

that’s the way they all talk –

always seeing the Devil

with his fire and pitchfork!

(Pause. She turns to look at Mark.)

There’s nothing wrong with Mark.

Why should I turn away?

I want to be with him,

no matter what they say.

Now he’s in my life,

I don’t need God so much.

(Rolls her eyes)

Someone said that proves

I’m in the Devil’s clutch.

They said I was drifting –

that I’m falling away,

all because I said

to someone the other day…

that now I have Mark,

I don’t feel the need to pray.

So what?

(pause)

I’m enjoying my life,

I’m enjoying the thrill.

The path I am taking,

is going up-hill.

(She bites her bottom lip, guiltily.)

I slept over one night –

my parents went ballistic.

(huffs)

Their expectations

are not realistic.

They’re blowing this all

out of proportion.

I’m a big girl now

and I take precaution.

(She raises both hands in the air.)

Why can’t my pastor

and friends condone?

Why won’t everyone

just leave me alone?

I’m sick of all the fuss!

They’re making things so grim!

So, I’m leaving home

and going to live with him.

NARRATOR

The following week.

(Jo and Mark are in the centre of the stage, facing each other. Jo does not seem as confident as she was before. Mark has picked up on this and is using emotional blackmail to sway her decisions.)

MARK

You don’t owe them anything –

those people from your church.

I’ve checked it out.

I’ve done my research.

(Jo is looking down, playing with her fingernails.)

They just want your money

and to tell you what to do.

Tell them not to interfere –

you have your own life too!

Come off all those rotas –

it’s wearing you out.

What’s in it for you?

(He laughs sarcastically.)

Enjoyment? I doubt!

JO

(Looks up)

Well, I’m only doing two things.

It’s good to get involved.

MARK

Well, you’re involved with me!

That’s your problem solved.

(Non-rhyming bit)

(Mark pulls away from Jo and turns his back on her)

You’re not going to that church anymore.

JO

But…

MARK

No ‘Buts’. It’s Lee’s party on Sunday, remember?

(He turns back round to face her)

Besides…they’re weird.

JO

Well… I guess one week won’t hurt,

but I’m on library duty.

MARK

(Mark pulls her towards him and touches her nose with his.)

Get someone else to do it.

you sexy little beauty.

(Alternative: “you pretty little beauty.”)

(He starts to walk around the stage, pulling Jo by the hand.)

Aren’t my mates more fun

than your little churchey crowd?

Let’s go to the night-club.

JO

I can’t, I’m not allowed.

Those places that you go to,

are often full of thugs

and girls pretending to be nice,

but trying to sell me drugs.

The last time you had a party,

there were loads of drunken streakers

and my ears were ringing loudly,

from standing near the speakers.

(Mark stops, lets go of her hand and faces her. He is clearly annoyed.)

MARK

What is this excuse

you are trying to contrive?

You’re acting like a baby!

How old are you – five?

Your parents are old fashioned.

You’re young, live life! Be free!

(He waggles the fingers of both hands (palms facing her) in front of her face.)

Nothing spooky happens there.

Don’t you want to go out with me?

JO

Well… on Saturday nights,

I get home so late…

and my parents worry.

They get a bit irate.

I end up so tired

on a Sunday morning,

all through worship,

I am just yawning.

I’ve no time for breakfast,

I stuff toast down and choke.

I’ve no time to wash my hair,

but it smells of ciggy smoke.

MARK

If you really loved me,

you wouldn’t agonize.

You’ll want to be cool like me,

you’ll want to socialize.

(non-rhyming bit)

You’re my girlfriend remember.

Prove to me you’re not boring by agreeing to do the fun things I do.

That’s why I chose you…not Rachel, not Kate, or Becky,

or Amanda. You!

JO

It’s just that I feel…

MARK

What? Your matey-mate Lisa, been going on at you again, has she?

She’s the weirdest one out of the lot of them!

All this stuff about obeying his word.

The word! Why does she call it that?

It’s the Bible. The boring, old-fashioned bible that’s been

around way before your Grandad’s Grandad’s, Grandad’s, Grand…

JO

Okay, okay!

(pause)

I’ll come to Lee’s party with you this Sunday,

and I’ll…er…come to the er…night club.

(Shrugs weakly)

It’s just that I haven’t been to one…before.

MARK

Well then, you’re in for a treat!

(He grabs her by the hand and drags her off stage.)

NARRATOR

Best friends, Jo and Lisa, are walking home from church. Lisa is excited about the upcoming Christian concert because one of her favourite bands will be playing.

LISA

Are you coming to the concert?

‘Should be good! I can’t wait!

JO

No, I’m not going…

I…have a date.

LISA

Oh! I didn’t know

you were seeing anyone.

JO

Yes. Mark from college.

He’s cool. It should be fun.

LISA

He’s not a Christian, is he?

JO

You’re right. He’s not.

But he does believe in God

and I think he’s really hot.

When I first saw him,

it was love at first sight.

LISA

But, you know you shouldn’t.

You know it’s not right!

JO

You don’t understand.

Mark’s really sweet.

I’ll bring him to church,

then you two can meet.

LISA

That’s your only reason

for bringing him along?

JO

Why all the questions?

LISA

Can’t you see this is wrong?

The bible says clearly…

JO

Oh, don’t start that with me!

It’s none of your business!

(She puts her hands on her hips.)

This is just…

Jealousy!

I can’t tell him to get saved!

That will be an insult!

It will frighten him off

and he’ll think we’re a cult.

He’s a good person

and he treats me with respect.

LISA

I’d like to hear you say that

when your life is wrecked.

(Lisa realises her words were a little harsh, so softens her tone.)

If someone ran towards you

holding a sharp knife,

don’t you think I would try

to save your precious life?

(Jo turns her back on Lisa and folds her arms. Lisa pulls her back around.)

Stop listening to your emotions

and listen to God’s voice.

You could ruin your destiny

by making the wrong choice.

JO

You make him sound evil,

Like he’s messing with my head!

Why can’t you just accept it

and be nice instead?

He makes me feel cherished,

he makes me feel secure.

I don’t believe a Christian man

could love me anymore.

LISA

I know one who does!

That’s why he says you’re sinning.

And Jesus always knows

the end from the beginning.

He made your whole being

and this is why he knows

what’s good for you and what is not…

JO

(mocking)

And Mark’s not I suppose!

LISA

You’re a new creation.

You’ve been set apart.

You grieve God when you give

the wrong boy, your heart.

JO

(Getting angry)

He’s NOT the wrong boy!

I have let God choose.

He wants Mark to be saved…

I’m the one God wants to use.

I told Mark God loved him

and this made him smile.

I’m sure he’ll be saved soon.

LISA

You’re just in denial.

(Jo turns her back on Lisa again. This time she stays where she is.)

Look, I care about you, Jo

and God cares even more.

This is not his will.

JO

How can you be so sure?

LISA

Because all your reasons

are really quite absurd.

God tells you the truth

right here in his Word…

(Lisa takes out a small Bible from her coat pocket and flicks through it to find the right page. While she is doing this, Jo is getting impatient.)

“You have nothing in common with those

who aren’t walking in the light.

Don’t be bound to them…” (A)

JO

(mocking)

’cause in the dark, they bite!

(Lisa gives up and puts the Bible back into her pocket.)

(Jo laughs.)

I’m not splitting up with him.

I don’t care what you say.

LISA

Well, you have your own free will

but you’ll regret it one day.

JO

(proudly)

I’m happy, which is more

than I can say for yourself!

You say to wait on God.

Huh! You’re still on the shelf!

LISA

(Ignoring the remark)

Get on one side or the other.

Stop sitting on the fence!

You can’t be compromising.

It really makes no sense.

If you think this is okay,

then it goes without a doubt.

that one day God will taste you

and spit you right back out. (B)

(Lisa, clearly upset for her friend, touches her on the arm then walks off stage with her head down. Jo watches her go but laughs and shakes her head.)

(A) 2Corinthians 6:14-15 & 1John 1:6

(B) Revelation 3:16

Topic: The folly of dating non-Christians (Based on 2Corinthians 6:14-18 & 1John 1:6-7)

Main theme: The importance of obedience

Approximate duration: 18 Minutes

1. Cast, Suggested props & costumes.
2. SCENE ONE – The Discussion.
3. SCENE TWO – Boyfriendly Persuasion.
4. SCENE THREE – Jo’s Complaint.
5. SCENE FOUR – I Have To Pay
6. Suggested summary and choice of 3 prayers
7. Director’s Notes

Cast

Cast: 3 characters + a narrator:

Lisa

Jo

Mark

Suggested Props & Costumes

An inflatable mattress to act as a couch – preferably placed by a wall so the seated can lay their backs against it.

3 scatter cushions for the couch

A large Bible

A pocket Bible

A chair. An ordinary hardback chair will do.

The play begins with the sick woman sitting at a dressing table looking into a mirror. She is facing sideways so the audience can see her and a glimpse of her reflection in the mirror. She is brushing her hair very slowly and carelessly as if she doesn’t believe having neat hair will make much difference to how she feels. On line 38, she gets up and walks towards an imaginary door DOWN LEFT. The crowd of people enter the stage UP LEFT and a few people head towards the dressing table and chair and stand in front it so that people at the back can discreetly move it to the side away from the main stage. They then move back towards Jesus who is standing UP LEFT with the rest of the crowd. The woman pauses her dialogue while trying to see Jesus at the front. She tiptoes and moves her body from left to right to get a better glimpse of him. Jesus and the crowd should be facing RIGHT and the sick woman turns so she’s facing the same direction. When she falls to her knees and grabs Jesus’ garment, she is sideways facing RIGHT so that the audience can see what is happening. Jesus turns around and is facing LEFT but does not look down at the sick woman until she speaks.

The Narrator will be unseen, positioned backstage with a microphone. Alternatively, if there is no P.A. equipment, then the Narrator may enter the stage, and read the bible verse facing the audience DOWN CENTRE.

As the Narrator begins to read, the woman and Jesus walk off stage towards UP RIGHT then slowly the crowd follows behind them. (If the Narrator is needed to come onto the stage, they will wait for them to be positioned before walking off the stage.)

To be conducted preferably by either:

A group leader.

A church leader.

The Narrator.

Thank you for sitting patiently, watching, and listening while our students brought this great story to life by their excellent performance.

We hope that in this short time, you have gained a deeper insight into how amazing God is when we let him work in our lives.

We all need a touch of God in our lives whether we are aware of it or not. It may be physical healing like the lady in the story, or it may be something different. We might want to be delivered of a fear of something we are anxious about. It may be a financial need. Or we may simply just want to feel peace in our heart on a daily basis.

If you would like the opportunity to get to know Jesus better and have a close relationship with God the father, there is a simple prayer you can pray right now.

We have to first acknowledge that we need to be forgiven of our sin. Sin is anything we do, think, or say that is displeasing to God, which includes living life independently of him.

When you become a Christian, your problems do not just suddenly go away. There will still be enemies to face, debts to pay, sickness and pain, fear, and loneliness. But the difference is that you will have the King of kings walking alongside you to help you, guide you, comfort you, deliver you, strengthen, and give you hope and peace. Best of all, you will have the assurance that when you die, you will be taken in God’s kingdom, Heaven, to live with him forever.

So now we will talk to God. If you mean what you say, God will hear you. Don’t look for outward signs of feeling different or crying. Some of you may, but some may not. That’s okay because God is concerned with your heart.

Also, some of you may feel embarrassed to admit you have prayed this prayer and some may be concerned about what your friends will think. Remember two things. 1. You came into this world on your own and you will die on your own. Nobody else will be able to save you, so it really is nobody else’s business what you are doing right now. When you stand before God at the end of your life, those friends whose opinions you were afraid of, won’t be there to help persuade God to let you into Heaven.

Secondly, you may not have another chance to get your life right with your Creator, so please take this opportunity to sort things out with God right now.

Dear God,

Thank you for giving us the story of the sick woman to show us how you are full of power and compassion.

Thank you that if we give our lives wholeheartedly to you, we can receive, strength, peace, wisdom, and comfort. I desperately want those things and I want to be free from the guilt of my sin, so I humbly come before you now to give my life to you.

I am sorry for the wrong things I have done in my life, which you call sin.

I acknowledge that I was born a sinner, which means that it’s in my nature to do things that displease you. I know that this includes the deepest thoughts and attitudes of my heart and the real motives behind everything I do.

Please forgive me for those sins and especially for the sin of keeping you out of my life.

Even though you love me, I know that because you are a God of justice and holiness, if I die without having my sins forgiven, I will spend eternity without you, in a terrible place called Hell.

I acknowledge that I need you and I want you in my life.

I believe that Jesus Christ is your son and that he died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins. I believe he rose again and is the living power that can take the Devil’s hold off my life. Please come into my life now and touch my heart with your forgiveness and love. I want to have a relationship with and get to know you more. My very being was created for this purpose and without you, my hunger for peace and happiness will never be satisfied.

I give you my life now. Please lead me to people who will help me become a good strong Christian and who will show me how to relate to the things of God. Help me to find a Bible that suits my understanding and a church that I can call home.

Thank you, Lord. I believe by faith now that you have answered my prayer. I believe that no matter how bad I may feel about myself in the future, you have forgiven me and saved me from my sins. Thank you. Amen.

SICK WOMAN

There’s a banquet tonight,

but I’m not invited.

The women in my town

are getting quite excited.

They’re rushing around

wondering what to wear,

and asking each other,

“How should I do my hair?”

Some are exclaiming,

“Look, what weight I’ve gained!”

They’re lucky they have dresses,

all of mine are stained!

Now, I wear dark clothes –

I have to – just in case…

They’re all sick of seeing

my embarrassed face.

If only this disease

would clear up and go!

How I’ll live twelve more years,

I will never know.

I’ve spent so much money

on doctors, glad to sell

expensive, useless potions,

that never made me well.

They really could not care

that it’s made me poor.

My money has been taken

But I have no cure.

I’m bleeding on the inside.

My body is so weak!

And what makes it worse is…

(She looks down in shame.)

many times, I leak.

I’m scared to go outside,

but today, I know I must,

even though I will receive

some looks of disgust.

I never travel far,

but I’m desperate today.

This is one time,

I don’t care what they say.

(Long pause.)

I can see him from the distance,

but oh, there’s such a crowd!

He will not hear my shout

even if it’s very loud.

(She pushes past people in the crowd who are being quite hostile and refusing to move.)

I need to get near him.

I’ll push my way through.

Oh no! Other people,

have the same idea too!

I’ll crawl on the ground

and grab his garment from below.

I need to touch him

before he decides to go.

(She falls to her knees and leans forward on her elbows.)

Just one touch

should be enough for me.

He won’t even know

and nobody will see.

Just one touch,

it won’t be a hassle.

All I need to do,

is finger a tassel.

They say he’s God Almighty,

they say he’s Love Astounding.

I believe in his power,

even though my heart is pounding.

Just one touch.

My deed shall be concealed.

I’ll grab it and run…

Oh no! I’ve been healed!

The shock’s made me let go!

The hem, I have dropped!

My body feels so strange!

The flow of blood has stopped!

I’ve spent my life

trying to get better,

instead, all of my clothes

have got wetter and wetter.

Now, I want to scream!

I want to hug him and cry!

I touched his clothes

and now mine are dry!

(gasps)

He’s stopped and turned around!

Does he know my flow has ceased?

JESUS

Somebody has touched me,

Power has been released.

DISCIPLE

Ha! Now come on Jesus,

there are hundreds here,

yet you are asking why

someone has got too near?

JESUS

The power of God

has healed someone today!

(The woman turns her head to the audience while still on her knees.)

HEALED WOMAN

Shall I own up?

What will he say?

(She looks up at Jesus.)

It’s me, Lord, I touched you,

I meant to do no harm.

(She looks down to the ground and places a hand on her chest.)

He looks at me so lovingly,

I feel such peace and calm!

(Jesus holds out his hand and reaches hers, then slowly raise her up to her feet. They both stare into each other’s eyes.)

He’s put his arms around me.

His eyes cut through my soul.

JESUS

You are healed, my daughter.

Your faith has made you whole.

NARRATOR

And you will seek me and find me when you search for me with all of your heart.

(pause)

Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you shall find. Knock and the door shall be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives, and he who seeks, finds. And to those who knock, it will be opened.

(Jer 29:13 & Matt 7:7-8)

-The End-

Topic: The woman who was bleeding internally (Based on Mark 5:25-34)

Main theme: Never give up hope in God

Approximate duration: 6 minutes

Cast

Cast: 20 characters + a narrator

Sick woman

Jesus

Disciple

Narrator – to read a bible verse at the end of the play. The narrator will be unseen, positioned backstage with a microphone. Alternatively, if there is no P.A. equipment, then the Narrator may enter the stage, and read the bible verse facing the audience DOWN CENTRE.

Non-speaking parts

17 people (the crowd)

Suggested Props & Costumes

1 x long flowing robe for Jesus to wear

1 x Old tatty clothes for the sick woman to wear

1 x table/dressing table with a large free-standing mirror.

1 x chair

1 x large hairbrush

5 x tatty pieces of clothing / old dresses which will be strewn on the floor around the chair.

As the lights go up, the woman is in the CENTRE, sitting on her knees. She is looking down to the ground and stays that way until the accusers leave the stage. Occasionally she flinches at the accusations. The accusers are standing behind her, in a semi-circle facing the audience. Jesus is standing DOWN LEFT facing the woman. He stares at her throughout the accusations and his expression is one of compassion.

There are ‘stones’ scattered all around the stage. After Accuser 12 has said, ‘It says women like her, should be taken out and stoned’, accusers 7, 8, 9,10,11 & 12 walk around the room and pick up two stones, one for themselves and one for one of the 6 accusers stood still. They each are allocated another accuser to hand a stone to which will have been already decided before the play begins.

To be conducted preferably by either:

A group leader.

A church leader.

The Narrator.

Thank you for sitting patiently, watching, and listening while our students brought this great story to life by their excellent performance.

We hope that in this short time, you have gained a deeper insight into how amazing Jesus is when we let him work in our lives.

Like the accused lady, some of you may be struggling with feelings of guilt over something you have done or maybe over something that is not really your fault at all. It may be a direct accusation thrown at you by a relative, teacher or fellow student or something more subtle, like being ignored by people.

Like how Jesus reacted in the story, he feels the same way towards people who throw accusations at us. He hates hypocrisy and wants people to first look at their own faults and weaknesses before pointing their fingers towards someone else. Be encouraged if you are struggling with feelings of guilt or inadequacy – God wants to rid these things from your heart and replace them with peace.

If you would like the opportunity to get to know Jesus better and have a close relationship with God the father, there is a simple prayer you can pray right now.

We have to first acknowledge that we need to be forgiven of our sin. Sin is anything we do, think, or say that is displeasing to God, which includes living life independently of him.

When you become a Christian, your problems do not just suddenly go away. There will still be enemies to face, debts to pay, sickness and pain, fear, and loneliness. But the difference is that you will have the King of kings walking alongside you to help you, guide you, comfort you, deliver you, strengthen, and give you hope and peace. Best of all, you will have the assurance that when you die, you will be taken in God’s kingdom, Heaven, to live with him forever.

So now we will talk to God. If you mean what you say, God will hear you. Don’t look for outward signs of feeling different or crying. Some of you may, but some may not. That’s okay because God is concerned with your heart.

Also, some of you may feel embarrassed to admit you have prayed this prayer and some may be concerned about what your friends will think. Remember two things. 1. You came into this world on your own and you will die on your own. Nobody else will be able to save you, so it really is nobody else’s business what you are doing right now. When you stand before God at the end of your life, those friends whose opinions you were afraid of, won’t be there to help persuade God to let you into Heaven.

Secondly, you may not have another chance to get your life right with your Creator, so please take this opportunity to sort things out with God right now.

Dear God,

Thank you for giving us this story to show us how merciful and forgiving you are.

Thank you that if we give our lives wholeheartedly to you, we can receive, strength, peace, wisdom, and comfort. I desperately want those things and I want to be free from the guilt of my sin, so I humbly come before you now to give my life to you.

I am sorry for the wrong things I have done in my life, which you call sin.

I acknowledge that I was born a sinner, which means that it’s in my nature to do things that displease you. I know that this includes the deepest thoughts and attitudes of my heart and the real motives behind everything I do.

Please forgive me for those sins and especially for the sin of keeping you out of my life.

Even though you love me, I know that because you are a God of justice and holiness, if I die without having my sins forgiven, I will spend eternity without you, in a terrible place called Hell.

I acknowledge that I need you and I want you in my life.

I believe that Jesus Christ is your son and that he died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins. I believe he rose again and is the living power that can take the Devil’s hold off my life. Please come into my life now and touch my heart with your forgiveness and love. I want to have a relationship with and get to know you more. My very being was created for this purpose and without you, my hunger for peace and happiness will never be satisfied.

I give you my life now. Please lead me to people who will help me become a good strong Christian and who will show me how to relate to the things of God. Help me to find a Bible that suits my understanding and a church that I can call home.

Thank you, Lord. I believe by faith now that you have answered my prayer. I believe that no matter how bad I may feel about myself in the future, you have forgiven me and saved me from my sins. Thank you. Amen.

NOTE: If the words in the first few lines are considered inappropriate for the actors or audience, please us the alternative words below:

“She’s not good!” “She’s so bad!” “She is evil!” “She has no heart!”

ACCUSER 1

She’s a trollop!

ACCUSER 2

She’s a floozy!

ACCUSER 3

She’s trash!

ACCUSER 4

She’s a tart!

ACCUSER 1

We literally had to prize them apart!

ACCUSER 5

It’s depravity!

ACCUSER 6

It’s corruption!

ACCUSER 7

It’s degenerate!

ACCUSER 8

It’s perverse!

ACCUSER 5

From what I’ve seen,

there’s nothing worse!

ACCUSER 9

She’s immoral!

ACCUSER 10

She’s devious!

ACCUSER 11

She’s repellent!

ACCUSER 12

She’s tainted!

ACCUSER 9

When we opened the door,

I almost fainted!

ACCUSER 12

What a disgrace!

ACCUSER 11

What dishonour!

ACCUSER 10

What a shock!

ACCUSER 9

What a scandal!

ACCUSER 8

Debauchery is more

than we can handle!

ACCUSER 7

She’s guilty!

ACCUSER 6

She’s shameless!

ACCUSER 5

She’s a sinner!

ACCUSER 4

She’s unclean!

ACCUSER 3

She deserves to die

after what we’ve seen!

ACCUSER 2

No loose woman is ever reformed.

ACCUSER 1

A heart like hers,

can’t be transformed.

ACCUSER 8

We caught her!

ACCUSER 9

We saw her!

ACCUSER 10

There she was on the bed!

ACCUSER 11

She had no escape,

and now should be dead!

ACCUSER 12

In my book of the law,

which for years, I have owned,

It says women like her,

deserve to be stoned.

ACCUSER 1

That’s true. We should stone her!

Let’s aim for her back.

As they hit the centre,

Let’s watch her spine crack!

ACCUSER 2

No, I think we should aim them

at her brazen face,

for, what she has done,

is such a disgrace!

ACCUSER 3

Oh, what does it matter?

Wherever they hit,

it will be joy to see

her grubby skin split.

ACCUSER 4

At first, she’ll go blue,

like one big bruise.

Then after ten stones,

the blood will ooze!

ACCUSER 5

I’d like to aim one

right in her eye,

then watch it pop out

and fly to the sky!

(They all laugh)

ACCUSER 6

It’s her own fault.

This woman must pay.

Adultery’s unforgivable.

Jesus…what do you say?

(Jesus continues to stare at the woman for a while then closes his eyes and moves his head upwards towards the crowd of accusers.

He opens his eyes and looks at them for a moment then turns his back on them and crouches down. He starts writing on the ground with his finger.)

ACCUSER 7

What’s he doing?

ACCUSER 12

What has he found?

ACCUSER 11

Why is he stooping

on the dusty ground?

ACCUSER 10

Didn’t he hear us?

ACCUSER 9

Oh, he heard us alright.

At last, he’s defeated.

He’s lost the fight.

ACCUSER 8

Ha ha! We’ve got him!

What a joyful day.

He really doesn’t know

what to do or say.

(Jesus gets up and stares at them one by one. Accusers 7,8 and 9 are at the

 back talking amongst themselves.)

ACCUSER 7

Oh, look at his eyes,

they’re so piercing and still

ACCUSER 6

They make me feel guilty.

ACCUSER 5

(Leaving the stage.)

I’m going to be ill.

(As Jesus begins to speak, they all jump in surprise)

JESUS

Who is he among you

that is without sin?

Let him throw the first stone.

Well, go on. Begin!

(The accusers begin talking to themselves and slowly turn around and walk away with their heads bent in shame. They exit the stage UP RIGHT.)

ACCUSER 1

I beat my wife,

so I’d better run!

ACCUSER 2

I’m feeling convicted!

ACCUSER 3

I’m feeling undone.

ACCUSER 4

It really feels awkward

to make this admission…

But I’m cocky and proud

and have selfish ambition.

ACCUSER 5

When it comes to food,

I have no self-control.

I’m a glutton who’ll devour

all the meat in the bowl.

ACCUSER 6

I’m a gossip who has

too much air in my lung.

I spread poison with my,

uncontrollable tongue.

ACCUSER 7

I am a hypocrite!

ACCUSER 8

I envy them next door.

ACCUSER 9

I swear at my mother.

ACCUSER 10

I steal from the poor.

ACCUSER 11

I’ll throw away this stone,

For, I cannot start…

I won’t forgive my brother

and there’s contempt in my heart.

(The remaining accusers walk away with their heads down.)

JESUS

So…where are your accusers?

They were so frenetic!

(He puts his hands on his hips, shakes his head and laughs.)

The bold in speech,

are often so pathetic!

(He bends down in front of the woman.)

Has no-one condemned you?

Has no-one thrown a stone?

WOMAN

No, my Lord, they’ve gone

and left us all alone.

JESUS

Everything you’ve done,

I already know.

But I don’t judge you either,

so, you’re free to go.

God has a plan for your life,

so, get up from the floor.

You are not worthless,

so, go and sin no more.

I am the Light of this world,

and those who follow me,

Will come out of darkness,

have the light of life and see.

Sin just drags you down,

but I can raise you higher.

Those who know they need me,

will get what they desire.

Forgiveness.

(The woman gets up and places her hands inside the hands of Jesus. She looks into his eyes and smiles. They walk off stage with his arms around her waist and her head resting on his shoulder.)

-The End-

Topic: The story of the woman caught committing adultery (Based on John 8:3-11)

Main theme: The futility of judging others

Approximate duration: 7 minutes

Cast

Cast: 14 characters

12 accusers

Jesus

Woman

Suggested Props & Costumes

The woman can be wearing a long dressing gown to indicate that she was taken away hurriedly.

‘Stones’. Several large soft balls, preferably grey, white or black. Alternatively, you can use large balls of scrunched-up newspaper.

A small narration takes place at the beginning of the play. Jesus is sitting down UP CENTRE with his knees raised and his arm resting on them. He is facing towards the right. The Devil is pacing around Jesus throughout the narration. When the Devil starts his dialogue, he remains standing but leans very close towards Jesus’ face. He gets more and more agitated as Jesus resists his offers.

A bean bag is positioned opposite Jesus in the CENTRE, which the Devil sits down on after he says, “You could have a feast.” Hidden at the side of the bean bag are two bowls which he produces when offering the herbs, mixed fruit and spice.

When Jesus says, ‘I will not be tempted by this stone. Man shall not live by bread alone.’, he grabs two stones that are still in the Devil’s hand and throws them to the ground.

There’s another bowl which contains the nuts. When he says, “Nuts!”, the Devil tosses a couple walnuts at Jesus who doesn’t catch them. Throughout the dialogue, Jesus is calm but speaks with authority.

After the Devil stops laughing, he turns around and walks off stage laughing. Just before he leaves, he turns around to face the audience once more and points randomly to someone in the audience then disappears off stage. The Narrator comes onto the stage from the opposite side and stands DOWN CENTRE facing the audience.

The Devil comes back briefly by popping his head around the corner onto the stage as if he has overheard someone talking about him. He is not happy that the Narrator is talking about him. He then disappears completely but in a manner of fear as if he must run because somebody is after him. The lights fade after the Narrator has finished.

To be conducted preferably by either:

A group leader.

A church leader.

The Narrator.

Thank you for sitting patiently, watching, and listening while our students brought this great story to life by their excellent performance.

We hope that in this short time, you have gained a deeper insight into how amazing God is when we let him work in our lives.

Like Jesus in the wilderness, we are often in situations where the devil is whispering things into our ears to get us to do things that displease God. Not only does this hurt our heavenly Father but it hurts us too. One of the main ways giving in to temptation affects us is that it floods us with guilt and shame. Another way is that separates us from God’s presence, and we find it so hard to find peace of mind.

You may have not realised the extent to which God’s word, the Bible, helps us to resist temptations and do the right thing. We cannot be holy without the help of Jesus and God has given us this story to show how when we use the Bible properly, we gain strength to overcome everything that is trying to hinder us.

If you would like the opportunity to get to know Jesus better and have a close relationship with God the father, there is a simple prayer you can pray right now.

We have to first acknowledge that we need to be forgiven of our sin. Sin is anything we do, think, or say that is displeasing to God, which includes living life independently of him.

When you become a Christian, your problems do not just suddenly go away. There will still be enemies to face, debts to pay, sickness and pain, fear, and loneliness. But the difference is that you will have the King of kings walking alongside you to help you, guide you, comfort you, deliver you, strengthen, and give you hope and peace. Best of all, you will have the assurance that when you die, you will be taken in God’s kingdom, Heaven, to live with him forever.

So now we will talk to God. If you mean what you say, God will hear you. Don’t look for outward signs of feeling different or crying. Some of you may, but some may not. That’s okay because God is concerned with your heart.

Also, some of you may feel embarrassed to admit you have prayed this prayer and some may be concerned about what your friends will think. Remember two things. 1. You came into this world on your own and you will die on your own. Nobody else will be able to save you, so it really is nobody else’s business what you are doing right now.

When you stand before God at the end of your life, those friends whose opinions you were afraid of, won’t be there to help persuade God to let you into Heaven.

Secondly, you may not have another chance to get your life right with your Creator, so please take this opportunity to sort things out with God right now.

(Hand out sheets that contain the ‘sinner’s prayer’ so they can be read and re-read when they get home.)

Dear God,

Thank you for giving us the story of the temptation in the wilderness to show us how you are able to help us resist the devil.

Thank you that if we give our lives wholeheartedly to you, we can receive, strength, peace, wisdom, and comfort. I desperately want those things and I want to be free from the guilt of my sin, so I humbly come before you now to give my life to you.

I am sorry for the wrong things I have done in my life, which you call sin.

I acknowledge that I was born a sinner, which means that it’s in my nature to do things that displease you. I know that this includes the deepest thoughts and attitudes of my heart and the real motives behind everything I do.

Please forgive me for those sins and especially for the sin of keeping you out of my life.

Even though you love me, I know that because you are a God of justice and holiness, if I die without having my sins forgiven, I will spend eternity without you, in a terrible place called Hell.

I acknowledge that I need you and I want you in my life.

I believe that Jesus Christ is your son and that he died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins. I believe he rose again and is the living power that can take the Devil’s hold off my life. Please come into my life now and touch my heart with your forgiveness and love. I want to have a relationship with and get to know you more. My very being was created for this purpose and without you, my hunger for peace and happiness will never be satisfied.

I give you my life now. Please lead me to people who will help me become a good strong Christian and who will show me how to relate to the things of God. Help me to find a Bible that suits my understanding and a church that I can call home.

Thank you, Lord. I believe by faith now that you have answered my prayer. I believe that no matter how bad I may feel about myself in the future, you have forgiven me and saved me from my sins. Thank you. Amen.

NARRATOR

Jesus was in the desert after being baptised by John the Baptist. He had been fasting and hadn’t eaten anything for forty days and forty nights. He hadn’t taken any food or drink with him, and he was on his own.

As you can imagine, he was very, very hungry.

DEVIL

If…if…if…if…if…if…if…

If you are God’s precious son,

the powerful, mighty, Holy One…

If you are his special child,

the spotless One and undefiled…

If you are the one true King,

then listen to the news I bring.

(He picks up a stone that’s been on the floor)

A stone so small…

Why did I choose it?

Because I know

that you can use it.

Now, I do not

mean to intrude,

but this small stone

can be your food.

You must listen 

to what I’m saying.

You must be hungry

from all that praying.

Famished? Gasping?

Be full instead!

you can turn

this stone to bread.

(He pushes in front of his face)

Eat it. Eat it.

You know you want to.

Eat it. Eat it.

you know you’ve got to.

Just do it for

your stomach’s sake.

There are different kinds

that you can make.

Bread that is flat,

bread made with yeast.

With your power,

you could have a feast!

You could add some herbs,

mixed fruit, or spice.

       (He puts a finger on his mouth and looks up)

What else could make

it tastes so nice?

(pause)

Nuts!

Use these rocks 

as a pestle and mortar.

Doesn’t it just,

make your mouth water?

(Pause for a reaction)

You could also make

a malted bun

and warm it up

in this hot sun.

Let’s see…what else

could you provide?

What about honey

running down the side?

(laughs)

You think I’m teasing,

that I’m cajoling,

but listen, isn’t that…

your stomach rolling?

JESUS

Stop!

Life is precious,

but not complete,

if you’re only concerned

about what you eat.

I will not be tempted

by this stone!

Man shall not live

by bread alone.

The Word of God

keeps us alive.

Living by that,

I will survive.

It is better

to fast and pray,

so take that stupid

stone away!

(The Devil makes out he’s going but turns around suddenly and grabs Jesus’ arm)

DEVIL

Okay, come, come,

come up higher.

I have something 

for the Messiah.

(He drags him to DOWN RIGHT where they stand looking over the edge of the stage.)

This is the highest

point of the city.

Look down there,

isn’t it pretty?

God has sent angels

to protect you.

So, if you fall,

it won’t affect you.

Throw yourself

down to the ground.

You’ll be fine,

you’ll just rebound.

JESUS

(Moving away from the edge)

It is written,

you evil pest,

Don’t put the Lord

through any test!

Have you not seen,

Have you not heard?

It is written plainly

in God’s Word.

DEVIL

Okay, okay,

I surrender,

but come and look at

all this splendour.

(He takes Jesus DOWN LEFT and looks past the audience)

See the world!

Look, what a view!

all of this

can belong to you.

I will give you

all you see,

if you will

bow down to me.

Look at what

the world displays.

It’s all yours if

you give me praise.

(Jesus pushes him and walks back to the centre of the stage.)

Away from me

you fallen creature!

Who are you

to be my teacher?

(Jesus laughs in disbelief)

Telling me all 

about creation.

It was God

who made each nation!

(Laughs again)

All the marvellous

things you see,

were here before

you came to be.

It is written,

worship the Lord,

but Hell, oh Satan,

is your reward!

You evil one,

you have a nerve!

It’s only God

who we should serve.

I want no more of

this conversation.

don’t follow me to

my next location!

I won’t listen to plans

that you devise.

I serve God with,

no compromise!

(Jesus leaves the stage. The Devil turns round to the audience, shrugs his shoulders, and turns his palms upwards. He talks to the audience.)

DEVIL

I’ll never win,

but I’ll keep on trying.

One day, one of YOU

will be complying.

I hate Christians

but I forecast,

not all of you will

be so steadfast.

I have a plan,

I have an inkling,

I could trip you up,

when you’re not thinking.

(He takes the Bible out of his pocket and points to it)

I will catch you

with my hook,

if you can’t be bothered

to read this book.

I have arrows of fire,

I’m waiting to shoot,

I’ll not give up

this hot pursuit.

so regard this book

as a lot of drivel,

then I can shoot

and watch you shrivel.

Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!

(He turns around and walks off stage laughing. Just before he leaves, he turns around to face the audience once more and points randomly to someone in the audience then disappears off stage. He comes back briefly by popping his head around the corner onto the stage as if he has overheard someone talking about him. He is not happy that the Narrator is talking about him. He then disappears completely but in a manner of fear as if he must run because somebody is after him.)

NARRATOR                   

**Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

(Lights fade)

** 1Peter 5:8-10

-The End-

Topic: Jesus is tempted by the Devil (Based on Matthew 4:1-11)

Main theme: How Jesus overcame temptation

Approximate duration: 6 minutes

Cast

Cast: 2 characters + a narrator

Jesus

The Devil

Suggested Props & Costumes

A stone or small balloon stuffed with tissue paper (large enough to be seen by the audience)

A bun or bread roll.

2 small bowls

A bean bag

2 walnuts

A long black coat with a pocket inside for the Devil to wear.

A small Bible that is inside the pocket of the coat.

Mary and Martha are disappointed with Jesus, but they remain respectful when speaking to him.

They are speaking out of ignorance, not mockery.

The board that covers the tomb will be situated UP CENTRE. When the lights go up, Jesus is sitting down, LEFT CENTRE with his arms resting on his thighs and looking down at the floor. Martha and Mary enter from UP RIGHT and walk forward until they are standing DOWN RIGHT facing the audience. Both have black hankies in their hands and Martha is comforting Mary who has started to cry.

As they turn round and see Jesus, they both place their hands on their hips and walk slowly towards him. They stand either side of him.

To be conducted preferably by either:

A group leader.

A church leader.

The Narrator.

Thank you for sitting patiently, watching, and listening while our students brought this great story to life by their excellent performance.

We hope that in this short time, you have gained a deeper insight into how amazing God is when we let him work in our lives.

Like Mary and Martha, some of you may be feeling that you are in a hopeless situation where there is no chance of restoration. Or you may be feeling like Lazarus, dead and unable to do anything else of any value. Your opportunities have passed you by and it seems like your whole body is bound in cloth so that you cannot progress.

Others may not have realised the extent to which Jesus desires to bless us and help us in every circumstance.

God can bring to life any dead circumstance in your life – what is impossible for mankind, is possible for Him.

God wants to enable you and equip you to do the things he called you to do. He wants to help you be the person he made you to be. If you turn your heart to him, he can open doors for you that seemed locked tight. He can move you from one path to another and set you on the right road. He can restore dead relationships and bring to life, buried hopes.

If you would like the opportunity to get to know Jesus better and have a close relationship with God the father, there is a simple prayer you can pray right now.

We have to first acknowledge that we need to be forgiven of our sin. Sin is anything we do think or say that is displeasing to God, which includes living life independently of him.

When you become a Christian, your problems do not just suddenly go away. There will still be enemies to face, debts to pay, sickness and pain, fear, and loneliness. But the difference is that you will have the King of kings walking alongside you to help you, guide you, comfort you, deliver you, strengthen, and give you hope and peace. Best of all, you will have the assurance that when you die, you will be taken in God’s kingdom, Heaven, to live with him forever.

So now we will talk to God. If you mean what you say, God will hear you. Don’t look for outward signs of feeling different or crying. Some of you may, but some may not. That’s okay because God is concerned with your heart.

Also, some of you may feel embarrassed to admit you have prayed this prayer and some may be concerned about what your friends will think. Remember two things. 1. You came into this world on your own and you will die on your own. Nobody else will be able to save you, so it really is nobody else’s business what you are doing right now. When you stand before God at the end of your life, those friends whose opinions you were afraid of, won’t be there to help persuade God to let you into Heaven.

Secondly, you may not have another chance to get your life right with your Creator, so please take this opportunity to sort things out with God right now.

(Hand out sheets that contain the ‘sinner’s prayer’ so they can be read and re-read when they get home.)

Dear God,

Thank you for giving us the story of Lazarus to show us how much you want to help us. Thank you that we can have the hope that one day at the right time, you will deliver us from our awful circumstances, heal us and restore broken relationships.

Thank you that in the meantime, if we give our lives wholeheartedly to you, we can receive, strength, peace, wisdom, and comfort. I desperately want those things and I want to be free from the guilt of my sin, so I humbly come before you now to give my life to you.

I am sorry for the wrong things I have done in my life, which you call sin.

I acknowledge that I was born a sinner, which means that it’s in my nature to do things that displease you. I know that this includes the deepest thoughts and attitudes of my heart and the real motives behind everything I do.

Please forgive me for those sins and especially for the sin of keeping you out of my life.

Even though you love me, I know that because you are a God of justice and holiness, if I die without having my sins forgiven, I will spend eternity without you, in a terrible place called Hell.

I acknowledge that I need you and I want you in my life.

I believe that Jesus Christ is your son and that he died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins. I believe he rose again and is the living power that can take the Devil’s hold off my life. Please come into my life now and touch my heart with your forgiveness and love. I want to have a relationship with and get to know you more. My very being was created for this purpose and without you, my hunger for peace and happiness will never be satisfied.

I give you my life now. Please lead me to people who will help me become a good strong Christian and who will show me how to relate to the things of God. Help me to find a Bible that suits my understanding and a church that I can call home.

Thank you, Lord. I believe by faith now that you have answered my prayer. I believe that no matter how bad I may feel about myself in the future, you have forgiven me and saved me from my sins. Thank you. Amen.

NARRATOR

Lazarus was the brother of Mary and Martha. Lazarus was very sick. The sisters sent a message to Jesus asking him to come and heal him. They trusted Jesus, but Lazarus died before Jesus arrived at their house, in fact, he had stayed on two extra days before making the journey to see them. The women had great respect for Jesus, but they could not understand why he had shown no urgency towards their heartfelt request.

MARY

You came too late,

our brother is dead.

“He’ll be alright…

don’t worry.” you said.

MARTHA

I thought you were coming!

MARY

What took you so long?

MARTHA

We trusted you, Jesus,

but your plans have gone wrong.

MARY

It’s not like we didn’t

give you a warning.

If you had been here,

we wouldn’t be mourning.

MARTHA

I thought you loved Lazarus

and I thought that you cared.

You could have come sooner,

his life could have been spared.

MARY

When we needed you most,

you were far, far away.

What was the reason 

for this careless delay?

MARTHA

You were busy elsewhere.

MARY

You were out of town.

MARTHA

I’m so disappointed

that you’ve let us down!

(Jesus gets up but remains looking at the floor. He speaks softly)

JESUS

You feel disappointed?

Well, so do I.

(He covers his face with both hands and his stomach muscles start to retract rapidly. He sits down with his hands still over his eyes. His shoulders are visibly shaking.)

MARTHA

I think we’ve upset him,

he’s started to cry!

(Mary, unsure of what to do, bends down to put her arms around him but raises up again and looks at Martha. Jesus begins to weep aloud.)

MARY

I cannot believe

the noise he is making.

He’s weeping so much,

his whole body’s shaking!

(Jesus stops crying and gets up)

JESUS

Why don’t you trust me?

Why don’t you believe?

If you had more faith,

there would be no need to grieve.

Your brother’s not dead,

that’s why I weep…

for your unbelief.

Your brother’s asleep.

I promised you

that things would be fine.

The power to heal

and restore is mine.

You’ve been with me so long,

yet you don’t understand

that the gift of life

is within my hand.

MARY

But Jesus, he’s dead

so how could we tell?

After so many hours,

can you make him well?

MARTHA

We’ve bound him already,

we’ve laid him down.

We’ll be laughed at by

everyone in the town!

(The four bystanders enter from UP RIGHT. They are talking amongst themselves, unaware of what is going on. When Jesus starts to pray, they stop near Mary and Martha and look back and forth at Jesus and the tomb. One of them appears to be asking Martha what’s going on then, they whisper to each other and look back at Jesus.)

JESUS

Take no notice of

what everyone thinks.

MARTHA

But he’s been dead four days!

His whole body stinks!

(Jesus moves to the centre standing diagonally with his back to the RIGHT CENTRE.)

JESUS

Forgive them, Father,

they thought they knew best,

by wrapping his body,

laying him to rest.

Help them to see

your sovereign plan

behind taking the life

of this dear young man.

Take their faith

to a higher level.

When they see him rise,

let them praise and revel.

Let them glory like never before.

May they always remember

everything they saw.

(Jesus points to UP RIGHT where the 2 helpers enter to remove the stone. They slide it across until it is UP LEFT.)

Take away the stone

that blocks the cave.

I am the Resurrection

and I came to save.

(pause)

Lazarus! Breathe!

Get up and come out!

Your sisters and friends

are full of doubt.

Let them all see

you were only sleeping.

Hear their rejoicing,

instead of their weeping.

(Lazarus has been hiding behind the board and now enters from UP LEFT. He stands UP CENTRE until his grave clothes are removed.)

God sent me from Heaven

and this you now know.

Loosen his grave clothes.

He’s alive, let him go.

(Everyone is excited and animated as they stare at Lazarus. Lazarus moves towards Jesus and embraces him for at least 15 seconds. As the lights fade, he is seen embracing his sisters and the bystanders.)

-The End-

Topic: Lazarus is raised from the dead (Based on John 11:12-19)

Main theme: God’s timing is perfect

Approximate duration: 6 minutes

Cast

Cast: 10 characters 

Mary

Martha

Jesus

Non-speaking parts

Lazarus

2 people who remove the stone

4 bystanders

Suggested Props & Costumes

2 black handkerchiefs for Mary and Martha.

Large white or cream coloured sheet to wrap around Lazarus.

Large board to act as the stone in front of the tomb. This needs to slide easily across the floor but sturdy enough not to topple over.

Throughout the whole play, the Narrator will stand DOWN RIGHT, facing the audience at an angle to the left, so he can observe the stage. He stands behind a lectern from which he reads his script, and the spotlight on him will be dimmed when he is not speaking. If this is not possible, then the Narrator may enter and exit the stage from UP RIGHT, with script in hand.

Scene One

There is a large table UP CENTRE on which is a fruit bowl and 6 bottles of wine scattered about. Some of the bottles are lying horizontally. Three rugs are placed DOWN LEFT and DOWN CENTRE where 3 men are lounging, looking full of food and too stuffed to move. Three soft chairs are positioned close together LEFT CENTRE where 3 men are sitting, leaning forward with their heads together, talking softly. There is another seat which is a reclining garden chair, on which Vashti will sit in the next scene. This is positioned further away from the others, DOWN RIGHT at an angle with the footrest pointing towards DOWN LEFT. Next to this chair is a small table and a crown/tiara on it which is hidden by a cloth.

King Xerxes is on a couch, positioned diagonally RIGHT CENTRE, with the back of his head facing UP CENTRE and his feet facing DOWN RIGHT. A glass is in his hand and a bunch of grapes is on his lap. While he is talking, he picks a few grapes up and one by one, goes to put them in his mouth, then drops them by his side.

Just before the King begins his dialogue, a servant who has been standing UP LEFT facing the king, is beckoned over to him. The servant stands with his hands in front of him, clasped together. He is the one who goes to fetch Vashti and reports back to the King.

Scene Two

As there is no time for all the props to be removed from the stage, everything stays where it is, and all the men quickly exit UP LEFT. The women come on from UP RIGHT and sit slumped down in the chairs as if they’ve had too much to eat. Vashti sits down on a seat (the reclining garden chair that is acting as a chaise longue), leans back and puts her feet up next to the table on which the crown is resting. The servant comes back onto the stage from UP RIGHT, goes and whispers in Vashti’s ear then stands far back.

Vashti suddenly sits upright and looks shocked. She remains seated throughout the dialogue and looks down at her feet while speaking. Near the end of her dialogue, she reaches for the crown and puts it on her lap, then begins to wring her hands nervously. As the servant begins to walk away at the end, she lifts her head up and watches him exit the room.

Scene Three

The king is walking around the stage swiftly. His lines are drawn out to indicate the extent of his anger, so after he says, “How…” he makes about 4 fast steps in one direction, then when he says, “dare…” he makes about another 4 or 5 steps in a different direction, and so on. He stops roughly in the CENTRE and faces the audience. He beckons his advisers by lifting his left hand in the air and flicking his wrist. Marsena and Carshena are standing sideways DOWN RIGHT, looking up at the king, and Shethar, Admatha and Memucan are standing UP LEFT looking down at the king. When the king beckons them forward from each end, they barely move but just shuffle slightly towards him. The king doesn’t seem to notice this as he’s too preoccupied with the advice they are giving him. The servant enters with Vashti from UP LEFT. He is holding her right arm. She is nervous as she has already predicted her fate.

Vashti is very sad when the king asks for her crown. She is scared by his anger and hands it to him quickly. She turns around fast, puts her head in both hands and runs off the stage towards UP LEFT.

Scene Four

The portable rack of clothes is positioned in the CENTRE. A selection of long dresses is on the rack, together with the scarves that are draped around either end of the horizontal bar. A table sits DOWN RIGHT on which are the trinket boxes. These contain the beads and one of the boxes is slightly open with three necklaces hanging out. A few brooches and rings are also scattered about the table. While Hegai is talking, all the girls except Esther, are excitedly walking around, trying on the beads and the scarves, and holding the dresses up against their bodies. They pin the brooches on and look to each other for their opinion. The rings are also tried on and when they do, the girls stand with their arms stretched out in front of them, viewing the rings from afar.  Occasionally, little ‘fights’ break out when a girl has an item that another girl wants. There is lots of pushing and shoving and snatching things away from each other. While this is going on, Esther is slowly walking around the clothes rack and table, occasionally running her hand lightly over the dresses & trinket boxes. She looks thoughtful and doesn’t make eye contact with anyone except Hegai.  Whenever Hegai says, “It’s going to be fun and it’s all in the making…” he puts his arms on the shoulder of a girl from behind. He chooses a different girl each time he says this rhyme and at the last rhyme, he chooses Esther. The lights dim as he stands with his hands on her shoulders and looks up dreamily. Esther’s unemotional and just looks slowly to the left and right at the wares while Hegai stands behind her.

Scene Five

As the lights go up, the 2 government officials are sitting behind a desk each, one RIGHT CENTRE and the other LEFT CENTRE. Mordecai is sitting behind a desk positioned UP CENTRE. They are all busy writing on a piece of paper.

As Haman enters from UP RIGHT, the 2 government officials put down their pens, move to the front of their desks and drop to their knees with their heads bowed. Mordecai looks up at Haman briefly and smiles but carries on working. Haman walks forward, beckons the officials to go back to work then stands DOWN CENTRE facing the audience. He clenches his fists and keeps looking back at Mordecai. When the dialogue begins, Haman squeezes himself behind Mordecai and is talking at Mordecai who does not respond to any of this as Haman is really thinking aloud. Haman’s movements are jerky as he is tense and filled with anger.

After Haman says, “You’re the doormat!” Mordecai briefly looks round at Haman who at this point, pauses to give Mordecai a hypocritical smile. When Mordecai turns back around again, Haman’s voice becomes even more agitated and gives the impression that he is tempted to strangle Mordecai right there. Haman moves back to the front as he comes to the end of the first part of his dialogue (“When my plan is complete.”)

The lights go down as Haman rushes off stage and exits UP RIGHT. Mordecai and the 2 government officials quickly leave the stage taking the pens and paper (apart from the piece of paper that was on the desk Right Centre) but the desks stay where they are. While the lights are still off, King Xerxes comes onto the stage and sits at the desk which is RIGHT CENTRE. Haman rushes back on from UP LEFT and stands in front of Xerxes who is reading the sheet of paper in his hand.

Scene Six

Esther is walking around nervously. She’s wringing her hands and often looks towards the audience as if she’s pleading for their help.

Scene Seven

The dining table is positioned horizontally in the centre of the stage. Xerxes and Haman are at either end. Xerxes is sitting RIGHT CENTRE and Haman is sitting LEFT CENTRE.

Esther is sitting in the CENTRE facing the audience.  When Haman starts to talk to himself (lines 5 – 8) he looks directly at the audience.

When Esther starts to reveal her plight to the king the next day, Haman begins to pull at his collar and twist his head as if he can’t breathe. He takes his napkin and wipes his brow three or four times, then takes a large gulp from his wine glass.

As soon as the king says, “I am so angry!” he rises. Haman stares across the table as he dares not look at the king in the face. At one point, Haman looks at the audience again as if they can help him in his time of desperation. Harbonah enters the stage from UP LEFT and points towards RIGHT CENTRE when he mentions the gallows. The king leaves the stage UP RIGHT after he has said his last line. Esther is still sitting at the table. Her eyes are focussed on the end of the table, but she does not look at the audience. Haman falls off his seat and onto his knees as he says, “Here they come with my very own rope!”

Scene Eight

Xerxes is standing next to Esther in the CENTRE, and they are both facing the audience. Xerxes is on the LEFT CENTRE side. He has his arm around her shoulder, and they are both looking directly at each other. Mordecai is standing behind them, UP RIGHT and walks slowly towards them and begins his lines as he approaches Esther. He places his arm around Esther’s shoulder as Xerxes lowers his.  Xerxes nods in agreement with what Mordecai is saying to Esther. Esther is now looking directly at Mordecai. Near the end of Mordecai’s lines, she looks from one to the other, lovingly.

Mordecai hugs Esther and the King comes behind and hugs them both. They turn around and slowly walk off the stage UP LEFT with King Xerxes in front and Mordecai’s arm still round Esther.

After the Narrator’s speech, the lights fade.

This part could be conducted by:

A youth group leader.

A church leader.

The Narrator.

Thank you for sitting patiently, watching, and listening while our students brought this great story to life by their excellent performance.

We hope that in this short time, you have gained a deeper insight into how amazing God is when we let him work in our lives.

Like Esther, some of you may be going through awful situations where you need courage and guidance as to the right choices to make.

Others may not have realised the extent to which God desires to bless us and help us in every circumstance.

Like Esther, Jesus was hated for being a Jew and he was eventually killed not just because of his heritage but because people felt jealous and threatened by his pure devotion to God and his true love for all mankind.

If you would like the opportunity to get to know Jesus better and have a close relationship with God the father, there is a simple prayer you can pray right now.

We have to first acknowledge that we need to be forgiven of our sin. Sin is anything we do, think, or say that is displeasing to God, which includes living a life independent of him.

When you become a Christian, your problems do not just suddenly go away. There will still be enemies to face, debts to pay, sickness and pain, fear, and loneliness. But the difference is that you will have the King of kings walking alongside you to help you, guide you, comfort you, deliver you, strengthen, and give you hope and peace. Best of all, you will have the assurance that when you die, you will be taken in God’s kingdom, Heaven, to live with him forever.

So now we will talk to God. If you mean what you say, God will hear you. Don’t look for outward signs of feeling different or crying. Some of you may, but some may not. That’s okay because God is concerned with your heart.

Also, some of you may feel embarrassed to admit you have prayed this prayer and some may be concerned about what your friends will think. Remember two things. 1. You came into this world on your own and you will die on your own. Nobody else will be able to save you, so it really is nobody else’s business what you are doing right now. When you stand before God at the end of your life, those friends whose opinions you were afraid of, won’t be there to help persuade God to let you into Heaven.

Secondly, you may not have another chance to get your life right with your Creator, so please take this opportunity to sort things out with God right now.

Dear God,

Thank you for giving us the story of Esther to show us how you are with us during scary times. Thank you that we can have the hope that one day at the right time, you will deliver us from our awful circumstances.

Thank you that in the meantime, if we give our lives wholeheartedly to you, we can receive, strength, peace, wisdom, and comfort. I desperately want those things and I want to be free from the guilt of my sin, so I humbly come before you now to give my life to you.

I am sorry for the wrong things I have done in my life, which you call sin.

I acknowledge that I was born a sinner, which means that it’s in my nature to do things that displease you. I know that this includes the deepest thoughts and attitudes of my heart and the real motives behind everything I do.

I believe that Jesus Christ is your son and that he died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins. I believe he rose again and is the living power that can take the Devil’s hold off my life. Please come into my life now and touch my heart with your forgiveness and love. I want to have a relationship with and get to know you more. My very being was created for this purpose and without you, my hunger for peace and happiness will never be satisfied.

I give you my life now. Please lead me to people who will help me become a good strong Christian and who will show me how to relate to the things of God. Help me to find a Bible that suits my understanding and a church that I can call home.

Thank you, Lord. I believe by faith now that you have answered my prayer. I believe that no matter how bad I may feel about myself in the future, you have forgiven me and saved me from my sins. Thank you. Amen.

Scene Eight: Narration (Based on Esther 8:1-7)

After Haman was hanged, Esther asked the King to write another decree revoking the instructions to have the Jews killed.

Her people were saved from destruction and Mordecai was given Haman’s job as Prime Minister.

Scene Eight: “Celebration.” (Based on the story’s conclusion)

 KING XERXES

Your people will be saved,

you’ve done a great thing.

You saved your cousin’s life.

Mordecai, take my ring.

You have Haman’s position

and the decree is reversed.

Your people no longer

shall fear the worst.

QUEEN ESTHER

Oh, Mordecai, what joy!

What victory is ours!

The evil, God destroys,

the righteous, he empowers.

MORDECAI

You are like my daughter

and you treat me like your dad.

You took all my advice,

for that, I am so glad!

You didn’t have to listen,

you didn’t have to obey,

but because of your humility,

we stand in royal robes today!

All the Jews will live –

you saved them from destruction.

All because you were willing

to follow God’s instruction.

(Mordecai hugs Esther and the King comes behind and hugs them both. They turn around and slowly walk off the stage with King Xerxes in front and Mordecai’s arm still round Esther.)

End Narration (Based on Esther 8:1 – Esther 10:3)

Mordecai ended up being given the second most powerful position in the provinces – only the king was higher than him. Mordecai was loved by the people he served as he was a kind and gracious man, who worked for the good of his people and spoke for the welfare and peace of the entire nation.

The Jews in every province were filled with joy and held celebrations and festivals in honour of what God had done for them. The King also wrote a decree granting the Jews the right to fully defend themselves against every other enemy that was planning to come against them. Five hundred enemies and ten of Haman’s sons were destroyed, leaving the Jews safe to dwell in their land in complete peace. They declared a national holiday, so for generation after generation, they would remember their deliverance and celebrate for years to come.

-The End-

Scene Seven: Narration (Based on Esther 4:16 – Esther 6:4)

Esther got all her maids and assistants to fast and pray with her for three days and asked Mordecai to get all the Jews in the capital city to do the same.

When the time was up, she went in to see the King who held his sceptre towards her. He was so pleased to see her that he said he would offer up to half his kingdom if that was her request. She simply said that she would like the King and Haman to dine with her the following evening.

In the meantime, King Xerxes had a dream which reminded him about something that had happened a while ago. He remembered that he was warned by someone that he was going to be murdered and wondered who it was and if any reward had been given to that man. He got someone to check the historical records to see who it was and when he realised it had been Mordecai, he desperately wanted to show his appreciation.

Haman however, had other plans. Esther had invited him to dine with herself and the King. This had made Haman very proud indeed as no-one else had received an invite. He ran home to tell his wife, but on his way, he passed Mordecai, who again refused to bow before him.

He told his wife how happy he was that he was going to the King’s for dinner but how that happiness was marred by the anger he felt towards Mordecai. His wife suggested that he make a hangman gallows and hang Mordecai on it in the morning. That way, he could go to the meal with a happy heart.

Scene Seven: “The Boomerang Plan, Part 2” (Based on Esther 7:1-10)

(They are each holding a wine glass)

KING XERXES

My Queen, what is your request?

Would you like more rooms?

Or some more of the finest,

fragrant perfumes?

(Cocks his head)

More maids or servants?

Some more silk dresses?

Or more gold flowers

to adorn your tresses?

QUEEN ESTHER

My request is simple,

I’d like you both to dine…

with me again, tomorrow.

I’ll order the best wine.

(Haman looks at the audience)

Well, did you hear that?

I’ve been exalted!

She loves me so much,

I cannot be faulted!

KING XERXES

Haman. There’s someone I’d like to honour,

not many, just one.

For the man I’d like to honour,

tell me, what should be done?

HAMAN

(Looks at the audience again)

Well, I am the greatest

so it’s plain to see,

that the mighty king,

is referring to me!

(Looks back at King Xerxes and puffs his chest out)

Take a royal robe…

one that you have worn.

This should be the garment

that is used to adorn.

Decorate his shoulders

with what you’ve been wearing,

then he will get attention.

(Grins to himself smugly)

Everyone will be staring.

Then, take a horse you’ve ridden

one of the very best.

One which has upon his head,

your shining, royal crest.

(Getting excited)

Then, parade him on horseback

through the city square.

He deserves applause

and a loud fanfare.

Let someone shout aloud

that he’s honoured by the King.

Let this man on horseback,

hear his praises ring.

KING XERXES

Excellent idea!

That’s what you shall do.

Go and shout the praises

of Mordecai the Jew.

Do like you suggested,

leaving nothing undone,

for he’s worthy of this honour –

Mordecai is the one.

And don’t forget the banquet.

Esther’s very keen

that you alone should dine

with me and the Queen.

HAMAN

I feel ill.

I’m nauseated.

What a palaver

I have created!

My stomach’s cramping,

my face is blue,

at the thought of what

I have to do!

I’m sickened at how

he’s going to be treated!

I’m full of rage,

for I’ve been cheated.

(Looks up at the audience)

But I’m determined

not to accept defeat.

Mordecai will die

when my plan is complete!

(The King carries on drinking from his glass, while Queen Esther watches Haman closely. A sullen Haman, gets up from the table slowly and exits the stage UP RIGHT.) 

(The lights dim, and the Narrator says, “The following evening…” the lights go back on, and Haman comes back in again and resumes his place at the table. He bows to the King and Queen before he sits.)

KING XERXES

What is your petition, Esther?

What do you need?

You know I’ll give you anything,

you don’t have to plead.

ESTHER

If I’ve found favour –

favour in your sight,

save my people

from a terrible plight.

If we were to be slaves,

I wouldn’t say a word,

but we’re going to be killed

on July the third.

Oh King, you’ve acted

so innocently.

You’ve been tricked into making

this dreadful decree!

You’ve been deceived,

you’ve been provoked

so this awful decree

cannot be revoked!

Your signet ring

has sealed our fate

and now I fear,

it’s much too late!

KING XERXES

What? Who is he

that would plot such a thing?

ESTHER

This wicked Haman,

that’s who, oh King.

(The king rises from his chair)

KING XERXES

I am so angry!

Get out of this place!

(The servant and Harbonah come onto the stage. He beckons them to come forward.)

Hold this man

and cover his face!

HARBONAH

See those gallows outside

that block the sky?

Haman made them…

fifty cubits high.

It is for Mordecai.

Haman’s full of hate.

KING XERXES

Well, evil Haman,

You shall alternate!

For all your wickedness,

you shall be repaid,

for you shall hang

on the gallows you made!

HAMAN

(Looks at the audience)

I wish I had an hour

for his anger to subside,

but there’s no time,

the gallows is outside!

If they had to build one

especially for me,

I’d have time to plead

and maybe, I’d go free.

But everything is ready

and the noose is in place,

yet I wanted to annihilate

the whole Jewish race!

My plans have gone wrong,

Mordecai should have died!

(Looks up)

That God he serves

must be on his side.

I can hear the wood creaking,

now I’ve lost hope.

Here they come

with my very own rope!

Scene Six: Narration (Based on Esther 4:1-12)

With the signet ring’s stamp on the documents ordering the Jew’s execution, the decree could not be revoked. That meant that even if the King changed his mind, the Jews would still have to be slaughtered. The only way it could be revoked is if the King sent out a separate decree ordering the murder to be stopped. It did not look like that was going to happen.

Esther was told about the decree by Mordecai, who convinced her that she was probably the only person who could influence the King to change his mind. But she had to be quick. There was another problem though. No-one was allowed to go to see the King without prior invitation from him. Anyone approaching his throne without invitation, was in danger of being executed on the spot. If the king did not hold out his sceptre towards the person approaching, it meant that he wasn’t pleased to see them and therefore they would be dead in the next second.

Would the king be pleased to see Esther? Would he hold out his sceptre to her if she went into his courts? He hadn’t called her into his presence for quite some time. Was he bored with her and looking for a new queen? She didn’t know the answer to any of these questions, but something had to be done.

Scene Six: “Shall I Go?” (Based on Esther 4:13-17)

ESTHER

A spear shall go through

every woman’s chest,

even those still nursing,

babies at their breast.

Before each young man,

has risen from his bed,

a soldier will rush in

and chop off his head.

There will be no end,

to this calamity.

They’ll even take the children,

and throw them in the sea.

What can I do,

before this evil day arrives?

Do I have the power,

to save my people’s lives?

I could go to the King,

and tell him of the plan,

but I have to be careful,

for he’s a fearful man.

The idea that I have,

needs some careful thought.

I need the favour of God,

when I step into the court.

If the King’s not pleased to see me,

I know just what he’ll do,

his anger will be stirred,

and I will lose my life too.

Perhaps I should not go?

No. I must try.

If I do nothing for my people,

I may still die.

(pause)

I need time to pray,

I need time to think,

for three days and nights,

I’ll not eat nor drink.

I’ll bow before my God,

and ask him what to do,

then I’ll have patience

and wait for my cue.

(pause)

With God going before me,

I can do any brave thing,

I will enter the court,

and stand before the King.

I have a purpose to fulfil.

This chance, I dare not miss.

Could it be I was born,

for such at time as this?

Scene Five: Narration (Based on Esther 2:6 – 3:5)

Hegai, who was the overseer of all the girls, liked Esther as soon as he saw her. He was impressed by her attitude and personality, and she listened intently to all the advice he gave. To Hegai’s delight, Esther was the one who was chosen to be the new queen. All the other girls were taken to the King’s harem where they would live for the rest of their lives. They would not see the King again unless they were specifically called for by him.

Although Esther was now the Queen, she maintained her humble spirit and met with Mordecai regularly to seek his advice. Mordecai had advised her not to reveal her nationality. She was a Jew and Mordecai felt that it was not the time to let this be made known, even to the King.

One day while Mordecai was on duty at the palace, he overheard two men plotting to have the King murdered. He immediately told Esther, who passed the report to the King. After an investigation, King Xerxes discovered that the plot was indeed real, and the two men were hung on the gallows.

A while later, King Xerxes promoted one of his employees, named Haman, to the role of Prime Minister. Haman was a very proud and arrogant man so he was delighted to see that whenever he walked past the other government officials, they would stop what they were doing and bow before him. Mordecai, however, would not bow. He did not have a bad attitude towards Haman, it was just that as a worshipper of the living God, he knew that God was the only one worthy of being worshipped in that way. Loyalty to God was far more important to him than people’s opinions. Haman was angry at Mordecai’s refusal to bow to him, and when he learnt of his nationality, he was outraged even more.

Yes, long before Adolf Hitler was born, this evil man named Haman, had a wicked plot in his heart to annihilate the entire population of Jews.

Scene Five: “The Boomerang Plan, Part 1” (Based on Esther 3:5-11)

HAMAN

(Talking to himself, but referring to Mordecai)

Bow! That means, lower your head!

Worship me

like you’re begging for bread!

Not a single man has

permission to rise,

until they’ve bent down

and closed their eyes.

But, you worship God.

What excuse is that?

I’m the boot

and you’re the doormat!

(pause)

You’ll regret this,

you arrogant Jew.

I’ll have dominion,

yes Mordecai, over you!

(Looks up dreamily)

In fact, I’d rather like

to see all you Jews dead,

then you’ll regret

not doing what I said.

 In my heart,

there is a pang,

to make some gallows

and watch you hang.

Then I’ll have the pleasure

to go up and check

that you’re bowing now,

because you’ve broken your neck.

I’ll get the King

to issue a decree,

to give a command

that will fill me with glee!

These people are worthless,

we’ve got nothing to lose,

so who will regret

a life without Jews?

And what’s the point

of killing just one?

Kill them all!

Let it be over and done!

That dirty old Jew

won’t bow at my feet…

he’ll be begging for mercy

when my plan is complete.

(He leaves the stage)

(He comes back onto the stage to speak with Xerxes who looks up when he approaches.)

King…there is a certain people

who do not keep your laws.

To have them all destroyed,

will be a worthy cause.

If it were just a few,

it wouldn’t have mattered,

but across the provinces,

they are all scattered.

To whoever destroys them,

I’ll give ten thousand talents,

and into your treasury

will go the balance.

(Xerxes puts down his paper and claps his fingers together)

XERXES

Yes, kill those from this land

and those overseas.

Here’s my signet ring.

Go do as you please.

Scene Four: Narration (Based on Esther 1:18-23)

King Xerxes wasted no time in arranging for a search to be made in every area of his kingdom, for beautiful young girls to come to the palace, one of whom would eventually become his new Queen.

There was a man called Mordecai, who was a government official in the palace. He had a cousin called Esther, who he adopted and brought up as his own daughter, after both her parents died when she was young.  Esther was one of the young girls who had been brought to the palace. However, none of the girls was allowed to go and see the King straight away. They had to be prepared with beauty treatments for a whole twelve months.

Scene Four: “The Preparation” (Based on Esther 2:3 & 2:8)

(Hegai stands RIGHT CENTRE, facing LEFT CENTRE and turns his head towards the UP RIGHT where the girls are slowly coming onto the stage. When the last girl is in, he continues looking back as he shouts to the imaginary girls who have been left outside.)

HEGAI

Come girls, this way. I’ll take you in ten at a time.

The rest of you, wait by the door.

(Pointing around the room)

Look! Jewels galore! Pearls to adorn your neck. Sapphire pendants. Diamond brooches.

It’s going to be fun

and it’s all for the taking.

Look in the mirror,

you’re a queen in the making!

(He walks around showing them various items.)

Gold-braided scarves. Silk flowers for your hair.

Thousands of beads. Try these silver bangles.

Experiment. See what works for you.

Inside these trinkets, you will find rings with every precious stone that was ever created.

It’s going to be fun

and it’s all for the taking.

Look in the mirror,

you’re a queen in the making!

Cosmetics. Kohl for your eyes. They come in every colour of the rainbow.

Try this lotion, so creamy and light. Watch it glide through your hands like a sheet of ice.

Look, smell…. Oil of Myrrh. For six months, this shall be your best friend.

You shall treat your body with the very best. Yes, see how the fragrance fills the room!

It’s going to be fun

and it’s all for the taking.

Look in the mirror,

you’re a queen in the making!

You will be given maids to attend you night and day.

You shall have massages…nail treatments…pedicures…facials…

Just put in your request. Nothing is too much trouble.

Then you’ll be ready to see the King!

(Waves his hand about)

So, indulge yourselves, girls. Indulge!

It’s going to be fun

and it’s all for the taking.

Look in the mirror,

you’re a queen in the making!

Scene Three: Narration (Based on Esther 1:12)

As Queen Vashti predicted, when the king’s servant came back and gave him her reply, he was furious. So, he called his chief advisers who were knowledgeable in the things of the law.

Scene Three: Banished (Based on Esther 1:12-17)

(Standing up and walking around crazily)

KING XERXES

How…dare…she…

humiliate me like this!

My summons isn’t something

she’s allowed to dismiss!

(Beckoning the other men towards him)

Come, my chief advisers,

you know about the law.

What shall I do with Vashti?

MARSENA

Oh King, show her the door.

For, everyone will laugh

and treat you with disdain,

and you’ll never have respect

in your provinces again.

CARSHENA

All the other wives

will follow her action,

and this will give Vashti

even greater satisfaction.

SHETHAR

All of the husbands

will be given no respect

for, any request they make,

their wives will reject.

ADMATHA

Yes, you offered her love,

that she chose to ignore.

She should lose her position

and not be queen anymore!

MEMUCAN

If it pleases you, King,

issue a royal decree

that cannot be revoked –

that everyone will see.

One that commands

Vashti never to reign,

or come into your presence,

ever again.

(Pause. Xerxes has his finger on his lips while he is thinking.)

KING XERXES

Let many women come

and be prepared for a year,

then I will choose the one

I feel is most sincere.

I want beauty from within,

as well as without,

a virtuous woman,

kind and devout.

Vashti wasn’t loyal,

but I couldn’t tell.

I want a new queen,

who’ll do her job well.

(Vashti is brought in by the servant. She is looking scared)

Vashti, out you go!

You acted out of malice.

Give me your crown

and get out of the palace!

Scene Two: Narration (Based on Esther 1:10-11)

King Xerxes instructed the servant to make sure that Queen Vashti arrives wearing her royal crown. He couldn’t wait to see her and after so many days apart, this was surely going to be the perfect finale to his banquet. However…

It is commonly supposed that the queen was being asked to be immodest, by walking into the banqueting hall naked, with just her crown on her head. Some Bible scholars interpret the command “…tell her to come wearing her crown.” as meaning “…wearing only her crown.”, thus her having to be undressed in front of hundreds of men.

Either way, the king by this time was so intoxicated with many days of wine drinking, that he would not have been thinking straight, so it is highly possible that this was the reason for Vashti’s refusal. So, my dear audience, as there is no clear indication that she was being rebellious, please be a complying crowd and see our Vashti as a virtuous queen – a character in this story, not to be scorned, but pitied.

(Narrator puts a hand on his chest and looks down sadly)

Scene Two: “I Cannot Win” (Based on Esther 1:12)

VASHTI 

I really cannot win,

for whatever I choose,

I’m going to be shamed,

and my head, I shall lose.

If I do what he says,

parade naked like I’m told,

like an indecent woman,

all shameless and bold…

When the king sobers up,

and finds out what I’ve done,

he’ll draw out his sword,

and I’ll have to run!

He’ll feel contempt,

knowing others have seen,

what is only for his eyes

and not befitting for a queen.

So here I am trapped,

and I know this is true,

my position is lost,

whatever I do.

His unfair demands

Shoot me like an archer,

I’ll have to prepare

For my sad departure.

Scene One: Narration (Based on Esther 1:10-11)

Can you imagine receiving an invite to a party that was going to last for 3600 hours? How would you decide what to wear? Would there be enough food for everyone, right up to the last day? Who would host such a lavish banquet anyway?

There was once a king by the name of Xerxes. He was a powerful king who did not rule just one country, but several, spanning three continents. All in all, he governed over 127 countries, stretching from Ethiopia right across to India.

In the third year of his reign, he arranged a mighty banquet which lasted 6 months. He invited all of his officials, ministers, princes and military leaders to join him and dine to their heart’s content. He also put on an elaborate display of his wealth. After the banquet had ended, King Xerxes held another banquet, which lasted for seven days. This time, the people invited were all the residents who were living in the capital city where his palace was situated. They could eat and drink as much as their stomachs would allow, from golden goblets that were each unique in design.

King Xerxes’ wife, Queen Vashti, was holding a similar banquet of her own, for all the women who worked in the palace. On the last day of the banquet, King Xerxes realised that there was one precious thing that he owned, that had not yet been put on display…his beautiful queen.

Scene One: “My Queen” (Based on Songs of Solomon 1, 2, & 4)

(King Xerxes suddenly sits upright as Vashti enters his mind)

KING XERXES

Bring my wife to me.

Go and call the Queen!

Tell her, come right now.

Her beauty must be seen!

(He closes his eyes and places one hand on his chest)

She has eyes likes doves

and is often told,

her neck is like a tower

when it’s adorned with gold.

(He momentarily holds up his glass)

Her love is better than wine.

Yes, Vashti is so fair!

I’m completely overwhelmed

with one flick of her hair!

Her lips are like ribbons of scarlet,

her kisses are sweeter than honey,

her smile, worth more than the jewels

a rich man would buy with his money.

(He gets up off his chair and stands facing the audience, looking upwards.)

It was a delight to woo her,

and such a pleasure to court her.

Every day, she refreshes me

like a desert filled with water.

To choose her as my bride,

I was very wise,

for she ravishes my heart

with one glance of her eyes!

(He starts to walk around)

She’s altogether lovely,

her voice, smoother than cream.

She’s my delight in the morning,

and at night, my perfect dream.

Her cologne is more fragrant

than most exotic spices.

It makes my heart beat fast,

my appetite, it entices.

(He sits back down on his chair)

I am utterly lovesick!

When you see her, you’ll know why.

Just thinking about her now,

lifts my spirits way up high.

I’ve called thousands to my banquet

to revel with me and dine,

(He flicks his fingers at his servant)

now I want my beloved queen,

for she is…all mine.

Topic: The story of Esther (Based on Esther 1-10)

Main theme: The blessings of obedience and humility

Approximate duration: 30 minutes

1. Cast, Suggested props & costumes.
2. SCENE ONE – Narration (Based on Esther 1:10-11)
3. SCENE ONE – My Queen (Based on Songs Of Solomon 1, 2 & 4)
4. SCENE TWO – Narration (Based on Esther 1:10-11)
5. SCENE TWO -I Cannot Win (Based on Esther 1:12)
6. SCENE THREE -Narration (Based on Esther 1:12)
7. SCENE THREE – Banished (Based on Esther 1:12-17)
8. SCENE FOUR – Narration (Based on Esther 1:18 – 2:3)
9. SCENE FOUR – The Preparation (Based on Esther 2:3, 2:8)
10. SCENE FIVE – Narration (Based on Esther 2:6 – 3:5)
11. SCENE FIVE – The Boomerang Plan –  Part 1 (Based on Esther 3:5-11)
12. SCENE SIX – Narration (Based on Esther 4:1-12)
13. SCENE SIX – Shall I Go? (Based on Esther 4:13-17)
14. SCENE SEVEN – Narration (Based on Esther 4:16 – 6:4)
15. SCENE SEVEN – The Boomerang Plan – Part 2 (Based on Esther 7:1-10)
16. SCENE EIGHT – Narration (Based on Esther 8:1-7)
17. SCENE EIGHT – You Were Willing (Based on the conclusion to the story) Plus end narration (Based on Esther 8:1 – 10:3)
18. Suggested summary
19. Director’s Notes

Cast

Cast: 35 characters + a narrator

King Xerxes

Esther

Mordecai

Hegai

Haman

Queen Vashti

Marsena

Carshena

Shethar

Admatha

Memucan

Harbonah

Non-speaking parts

10 Banquet guests (7 men for Scene One & 3 women for Scene Two.)

1 servant (for Scenes One, Two & Three)

10 young girls (As prospective queens in Scene Four)

2 government officials (Scene Five)

Suggested Props & Costumes

For Scene One

A long deckchair or chaise-long for Xerxes to lounge on with his feet up.

Another reclining chair for Vashti to be used in Scene Two.

A small, foldable table to be positioned by Vashti’s chair. The crown will be on this covered by a cloth.

A cloth to hide the crown until Scene Two

3 soft chairs.

A large table which can also be used as a dining table in Scene Six.

6 empty bottles of wine.

A bowl of fruit.

A bunch of grapes.

3 rugs

For Scene Three

A tiara or plastic crown for Vashti to wear. This will be on a table, hidden under the cloth in Scenes One and Two.

For Scene Four

A portable clothes rack, preferably on wheels.

Several long dresses on hangers.

8 soft scarves.

Several beaded necklaces.

4 jewel/trinket boxes.

Several brooches & rings.

Some fancy bubble-bath bottles

A few bottles of body lotion or hand-cream.

For Scene Five

3 small tables/desks & 3 chairs for Mordecai & government officials.

3 sheets of paper.

3 pens.

For Scene Seven

A plain pillowcase or large cloth to place over Haman’s head.