The Esther Show 2026 - A Purim cabaret of chaos & catharsis

This is a stripped-down lounge act that reveals the fear, hope, and heroism in the biblical Book of Esther. The story features such old-timey ideas as an idiot king with cruel advisors; xenophobic decrees targeting innocent people; and an autocrat obsessed with his own golden scepter.

Can an ancient cosplay myth give 21st century citizens any guidance? Can you have fun when the world is upside down? Surrender to an annual ritual of messy release and mayhem.

Costumes encouraged. Wear your sparkling and transgressive best.

Doors 5:30pm/ Show at 6pm

*Note this show is geared towards adults and may not be appropriate for children under 13.

About

A performer, writer, and vocalist who often works from Jewish sources, Amy Tobin has produced and created dozens of shows and experiences in the Bay Area. In recent years, she’s hosted intimate experiences at the intersection of art and community, workshopping new music and interpreting old traditions.

Amy was a recipient of the LABA fellowship for Jewish artists and the Gerbode Foundation fellowship. Past performances include the SF Fringe Festival, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, and venues across San Francisco and the East Bay. Amy was the founding Artistic Director of The Hub at the JCCSF, founding Executive Director of the David Brower Center, and CEO of the JCC East Bay.

From 2002-2005, Amy Tobin developed and toured “The Esther Show” in honor of the Jewish holiday of Purim, with a cast of collaborators including Rabbi Rochelle Robins, Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie, Kevin Carnes (broun fellinis), Bryan Dean, Jacob Aginsky, Amy Mueller, and Pamela Ricard. Each year, the themes of abuse of power, hate, and bumbling misogynistic kings made the story urgent and relevant. This year it seems as important as ever.

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