Esther is remembered today through the celebration of 'Purim', which is held annually in the Jewish month of Adar (around February or March).
This celebration is a time offeasting and rejoicing and of remembering the victory the Jews had over their enemies.
The Scroll of Esther (the Megillah) is read aloud in the synagogue with emphasis and excitement. When Haman's name is mentioned, people boo and hiss and make noise with 'graggers'.
Since this is a time of celebration, costumes are frequently worn. Wearers "masquerade" to reflect the many mistaken identities in Esther. Pastries resembling Haman's ears are eaten, songs are sung and a good time is had by all.
Interestingly, in Orthodox Judaism, woman are allowed and encouraged to ake part in the reading of the scroll. This is something we've endeavoured to reflect in our retelling of the story in this production.
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