Queen Elsa Reigns Supreme At Annual Marks JCH Purim Carnival

Rachel Silberstein -

Move over, Queen Esther.

It was Queen Elsa who ruled at the annual Purim carnival at Marks Jewish Community House of Bensonhurst on Sunday, which drew more than 800 neighborhood kids. Along with Frozen princesses, there were also plenty of Spideys, Ninja Turtles, Peter Pans, and flappers who came out to celebrate the holiday sometimes known as “Jewish Halloween.”

L2coLAB‘s Purim Spiel – a musical, shadow puppet adaptation of the Purim story performed in English and Russian – was also a hit. The upbeat, English performance, which included parodies of Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” and Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain,” prompted tiny audience members to jump out of their chairs, singing and clapping.

Kids made crowns, groggers, masks, gift baskets, and enjoyed many yummy treats. Two giant moon bounces, a rock climbing wall, and various carnival games provided hours of entertainment for party goers of all ages. The festivities closed with kids strutting their stuff at a costume parade, followed by a lively dance party.

Here are some photos from the event:

An epic moment for ice cream cones everywhere.
Can you count the Elsas?
Courtesy Marks JCH
Kids made triangular rice crispy treats. (Photo courtesy of Marks JCH)
The Purim Spiel shadow puppet show was a hit.