For those who aren't familiar with the Jewish holiday of "Purim," one of the traditions is to do a musical spoof of the Queen Esther story (a "Purim spiel") using modern references and take-offs of Broadway shows. We performed "Les Phantom Miserables" last night at our synagogue, and we skewered poor Russell Crowe. Our Haman character (a take-off on Javert) was sick, so I, an off-key soprano, filled in. I told the audience that Russell Crowe asked to play the part, but that we turned him down. When no one laughed, I asked, "How many have seen the movie?" Almost no one raised their hands. It's no fun to insult someone when the audience doesn't get it!
You alone can make my song take flight.
