THREE DREAMS AND A DANCE
A Play for Christmas by
Jewell Ellen Smith
Copyright © 1981 by Jewell
Ellen Smith. All Scripture quotations are from the King James Version of the
Bible. First performed at Ft. Rucker, Alabama, in 1981. Nonprofit groups may
perform this play without payment, but if you plan to perform it, Jewell’s
children request that you e-mail Jewell’s older son David at
DSmith1204@aol.com.
Click here to go to the Jewell Ellen Smith
Homepage
TIME: When Jesus was born in
Bethlehem of Judea, in the Roman year 747 (6 BC).
PLACE: Jerusalem, Bethlehem,
and a village named Hebron on a road leading towards Egypt.
BACKGROUND SCRIPTURES:
Matthew 2:1-18; Luke 2:8-16, Numbers 24:17, 19, Isaiah 7:14-15; 9: 6-7; 40;
43:15; Micah 5:2.
PURPOSE: To tell the
Christmas story.
THE CHARACTERS:
King Herod--Herod the Great,
the ruthless tyrant who has ruled Judea some 30 years.
Hachaliah--Hak-a-LI-a The
king's cup bearer, a kinsman of Madam Hodesh, Elkinah, and Zalaph.
Esli and Melchi--The King's
bodyguards.
Ja-rib--Minister and advisor
to King Herod.
Madam Hodesh--Director of a
troupe of Jerusalem dancers, a native of Hebron
The Hodesh dancers--A
company of professional dancers who perform frequently at the royal palace in
Jerusalem, consisting of Zelzah, Keziah, Jecholiah, Hodiah, Izriah, Dellah,
Tizrah, and Huldah.
The Wise Men from the East:
Kaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar.
Jazarus and Mathtius, high
priests
Shelemiah and
Irijah--Scribes.
Three other scribes
El-ka-nah--a devout and
learned rabbi, highly respected in Jerusalem.
Bethlehem shepherds: Nathan,
Elihu, Ha-na-ni, two other shepherds.
Mary--the mother of the
Christ Child.
Joseph--Mary's husband, a
carpenter from Nazareth.
The
Christ Child
The
servants of the magi
First,
Second, and Third Dream Angels, Death Angel
Roman army officers: first,
second, and third centurions
Za-laph--a tent dweller of
Hebron, the uncle of Madam Hodesh and cousin of Hachaliah.
Za-laph's
wife
Total:
45 parts
Players required:
9 women dancers, 6 other women (angels, Mary, Zalaph's wife)
21 men (five scribes may play shepherd roles)
2 boys (Magi's servants)
1 Newborn child
ACT
I Scene 1
Scene 1: Jerusalem, about 9
o'clock in the morning, in the throne room of King Herod's palace. Herod,
garbed in his royal robes and carrying his crown in his hand, enters,
accompanied by Esli and Melchi. Herod is suffering from a hangover and is in a
bad mood.
HEROD: pounding his
forehead with his left hand Oh, my aching head! Walks on toward throne,
stops, looks around for Hachaliah. Where's Hachaliah? Calls loudly
Hach-a-LI-ah! Where is that rascal?
ESLI: He's right outside,
your highness. I saw him a minute ago. Dusts off throne seat with his hand
HEROD: Tell him to get in
here! And bring some wine! groans Oh, my head!
Esli turns to go get
Hachaliah, meets him coming in. Melchi picks up three huge pillows stacked
behind the throne chair but has to let them slide to the floor when Herod hands
him the crown.
HEROD: to Melchi
Here, hold this thing. Hands crown to Melchi, climbs slowly--as would an old
man--for he is 68--into throne chair.
HACHALIAH: You called me,
King Herod?
HEROD: I did. Don't just
stand there! Get me some wine!
HACHALIAH: Yes, Sir. Right
away, Sir. Hurries out, returns almost immediately
MELCHI: Offering pillows.
King Herod, do you want to use any of your pillows this morning?
HEROD: Yeah, and get me my
arm rest. My left elbow flexes left arm is as stiff as a camel's hind
leg. I must be getting old.
ESLI: Oh no, king! You're
not getting old! You just slept wrong, or something.
Guards adjust pillows for
Herod's back and left arm.
HACHALIAH: offering
sliver goblet of wine Here's your wine, Sir.
HEROD: starts to reach
for wine, stops. Did you taste it?
HACHALIAH: Oh, yes Sir!
HEROD: I didn't see you.
Taste it again. I'm not going to get poisoned like my father
before me!
Hachaliah takes a gulp,
clears his throat, hands goblet to Herod. Herod takes a drink, spews this wine
out of his mouth, throws the glass at Hachaliah.
HEROD: Damn you! You must'a
made that this morning!
HACHALIAH: Oh, no Sir, King
Herod! I-- I-- I'll get you some more!
HEROD: Hachaliah, haven't I
told you a thousand times I like old wine and new dances?
HACHALIAH: Yes Sir, King
Herod, you have. Turns to leave
HEROD: Go tell Madam Hodesh
I want to see her dancers do some new dances! Right now!
HACHALIAH: Surprised
The dancers? Now? Before ten o'clock in the morning?
HEROD: Hachaliah, would you
like to see your own head rolling across the floor here? Twirls hand
over and over to show how H.'s head would roll like a ball.
HACHALIAH: With
considerable uneasiness--though he has heard Herod's head-rolling-on-the-floor
threat many times before--Oh, no Sir, King Herod! No Sir!
HEROD: Then do as I say! Bring the wine! And bring
the dancers!
Hachaliah darts away. Herod
grumbles to his guards.
If I want to see dancers dance morning, noon, and
night, I'll see dancers dance morning, noon, and night!
ESLI: Yes, King Herod. Of
course.
MELCHI: You're right, Sir!
HEROD: Gim'me that wretched crown.
As Herod leans forward to
take the crown from Melchi, Eli eases another pillow to his back. Herod plops
the crown on his head at an angle, slumps back against his pillows.
I can tell, this is gonna be one of those days I
wish I'd never been born.
ESLI: trying to flatter
Herod into a better mood. Oh, Sir, don't say that. You're the king!
MELCHI: You're Herod the
Great! The people call you Herod the Great!
HEROD: Tell me, now, what do
the people say about me?
MELCHI: Why-- uh-- uh-- they
say you've done wonders for Judea. Built cities throughout the land! Looks
to Esli for help in flattering Herod.
ESLI: And palaces! You've adorned
Jerusalem! The-- the-- the theatre! The amphitheater! Viaducts! Monuments!
And-- and--
MELCHI: The temple!
The beautiful temple! The people call it Herod's temple.
ESLI: Of a truth, Sir, you are
Herod the Great!
HEROD: much pleased at
all the flattery Yes. I am. I'm HEROD THE GREAT!
Curtain
End of Scene 1
Scene
2
Scene 2. A few minutes
later, in the combination rehearsal room and sleeping quarters of the Hodesh
Dancers. Madam Hodesh and her dancers are just waking up and getting up. Some
are still asleep; one or two are yawning and stretching. Madam Hodesh is doing
sitting-up exercises. Hachaliah knocks on the door.
MADAM HODESH: calling out
Who is it? Aside to dancers I don't know who could be here at this
hour of the morning! Goes to open door
HACHALIAH: still outside It's
me, Cousin Hodesh! Hachaliah.
M. HODESH: opening the
door half way Hak! What on earth are you doing here?
HACHALIAH: It's King Herod!
He wants your dancers to come dance for him--right now.
M. HODESH: Now? King Herod
must be out of his mind!
HACHALIAH: You may be right,
Cousin Hodesh, but please come! Quick as you can. The king's in a bad mood. He
threatened to have my head rolling across the floor!
M. HODESH: laughing I
bet I can tell you exactly what he said! He said, "Hachaliah, would you
like to see your own head rolling across the floor?" imitates the hand
gesture Herod uses with this saying.
HACHALIAH: with surprise
How'd you know?
M. HODESH: I know old King
Herod! He's always telling me that my head's going to roll. He says that
to everybody.
HACHALIAH: The only problem
is he does make heads roll!
M. HODESH: Yes. Remember
when he had his favorite wife Miriamne executed? Oh, that was horrible!
HACHALIAH: And her mother!
And then he had the high priest drowned!
M. HODESH: Oh, yes! And two
of his own sons strangled! It's no wonder people hate him and fear
him!
HACHALIAH: changing
subject Then you will bring the dancers? Right away?
M. HODESH: I guess I'll have
to. It'll take about five minutes, though, to get them woken up and into their
outfits.
HACHALIAH: much relieved
Thank you, Cousin Hodesh! I'll tell the king you're on your way. Leaves
M. HODESH: as she closes
door behind H. Wake up, girls! Get up! We've got to go dance for the king!
ZELZAH: rubbing her eyes
Dance for the king?
DELLAH: Not again! Stretches,
yawns.
TIRZAH: Madam Hodesh, we
danced for King Herod till two o'clock this morning!
M. HODESH: Yes, I know, I
know. But we've got to dance again, right away!
ZELZAH: What about our
breakfast?
Hachaliah knocks again.
Hodesh opens door.
M. HODESH: with surprise Cousin
Hak?
HACHALIAH: I Forgot to tell
you--King Herod wants some new dances! Leaves
M. HODESH: throws up her
hands, thoroughly disgusted New dances! In five minutes I'm supposed
to come up with new dances! Mutters under her breath Herod is an old
fool! Turns to dancers Hurry up, girls. We'll have to try to put
together some sort of a new routine.
Walks from couch to couch,
shaking the shoulders of dancers who are still asleep. Ke-zi-ah, wake up and put on
your costume.
KEZIAH: sitting up
suddenly Costume?
ZELZAH: We've got to dance.
King Herod sent for us. Looks about for shoes, gets down on knees to look
under a couch Has anybody seen my sandals?
Madam Hodesh reaches Huldah
and Isriah, shakes both.
M. HODESH: Huldah, get up!
You too, Israiah! No fooling around, now.
DELLAH: to Zelzah
Zelzah, here's one of 'em. Tosses a sandal to Zelzah
TIRZAH: to Zelzah That's
my shoe! Not Zelzah's! goes to retrieve sandal Zelzah, your shoes
are over there by the door. Points to sandals
Zelzah slips on dancing
shoes, goes to Madam Hodesh as she begins to pace back and forth.
ZELZAH: Madam Hodesh?
M. HODESH: Don't bother me
right now, Zelzah. I've got to think about what routines or modifications of
routines I can teach you girls. Circles about, going through a few steps--as
if planning a dance--repeats some steps.
IZRIAH: whining as she
leans back on couch Madam Hodesh, I can't dance. I've got two blisters from
last night! Pokes foot high in the air to show blistered toes See?
M. HODESH: without even
looking at Isriah Never mind a few blisters. To herself H-mm-mm. Let
me see. I think I've got something figured out. I won't bother with rehearsing.
ZELZAH: Madam Hodesh?
M. HODESH: ignoring
Zelzah and walking in a circle--still talking to herself I'll have them
circle twice, swerve to the right, go into the Alpha and Omega figures, and
then--
ZELZAH: Madam Hodesh?
M. HODESH: a bit
impatient What is it, Zelzah?
ZELZAH: enthusiastically
If the king wants to see a new dance, I could do my new solo! I know it! Every
step of it! Waits for answer Please!
M. HODESH: Well-- I don't
know. I'll have to think about that.
ZELZAH: Please! I know King
Herod will like it! Especially the part that has the little short, tricky
steps! Dances about, showing fancy steps
M. HODESH: You innocent
child! I shouldn't tell you this, but when dancers perform before King Herod,
he does not watch the way they move their feet!
Madam Hodesh claps her
hands--a signal for the troupe to gather round her for instructions
All right, girls. I know it's early. You haven't had
your breakfast. You're tired from dancing last night. So am I. But we've got to
perform again.
ALL DANCERS: grumbling
Ah, must we?
M. HODESH: It is not wise to
displease the king. So, get your costumes and let's go. Pauses Girls, I
tell you what: do a good job this morning, and I'll take you on a vacation!
Dancers are surprised,
jubilant; all start talking at the same time.
Zelzah:
That'll be great!
Hodiah: When?
Tirzah: Where'll we go?
Huldah: Madam Hodesh! When do we leave?
Jecholiah: A vacation. Oh, goodie!
Keziah: I can't wait!
Izriah: That'll be wonderful!
Dellah: Think of it! A real vacation!
M. HODESH: I'll take you
down to the old village of Hebron--that's where I was born. I have an old Uncle
Zalaph living there, and we can stay with him. He and his wife still live in a
tent.
ZELZAH: Sleeping in a tent
will be fun!
M. HODESH: We'll go see the
famous Cave of Machpelah. But mainly, we'll just rest our bones.
IZRIAH: Madam Hodesh, where is
Hebron?
M. HODESH: Well, I don't
know exactly how to tell you. But if you were going down to Egypt, you'd pass
through Hebron. It's on the old road--to the south, of course.
Oh, it's an ancient place.
As I said, the Cave of Machpelah is there and that's where our great Father
Abraham is buried, and his wife, the beautiful Sarah. And Isaac and Jacob, and
their wives.
DELLAH: Madam Hodesh, how do
you know about all these things?
M. HODESH: When I was just a
little girl, my Cousin Elkanah used to read to me out of the Books of Moses and
all the prophets, and he told me all the history of our Jewish people.
KEZIAH: Madam Hodesh, I was
just thinking. What if King Herod calls for us to dance while we're down at Hebron?
M. HODESH: I'll tell
Hachaliah to engage some other dancers. We're not the only professional
dancers in Jerusalem. We're the best! But there are other troupes.
ALL DANCERS: in happy
carefree mood Yeah! We're the best!
M. HODESH: Let's go. Starts
out door, girls follow
ZELZAH: eagerly Are
you going to let me do my dance?
M. HODESH: Yes, you can do
it.
ZELZAH: clapping her
hands Oh, goodie!
All exit
End of Scene 2
Scene
3
Scene 3: A few minutes
later, in King Herod's throne room. The king is still seated on the throne,
nursing his headache. His bodyguards are at the door. Jarib is there to read a
long list of people waiting for an audience with the king. Hachaliah has not
yet returned with the wine.
JARIB: tablet in hand
If it please the king, I'll read to you the list of people waiting out there to
see you. Gestures toward door
HEROD: grumbling I'm
not going to see anybody unless I can get rid of this headache. But you can
read 'em. Yelling out Hach-a-LI-ah! That idiot cup-bearer has
been gone an hour!
JARIB: in soothing tone
He'll be here any minute, Your Majesty. He went to the wine cellar to
personally select you some real good wine.
HEROD: It had better be
good.
JARIB: looking at tablet
Sir, there's a delegation of merchants from Jericho. They beg you to do
something about the bands of thieves and cutthroats hiding between Jerusalem
and Jericho. The merchants say they lose more goods than they sell.
HEROD: Tell 'em to come back
tomorrow.
JARIB: looking at tablet
notes The masons and carpenters who keep up the city walls want to talk to
you about repairs. Especially, about what poor condition the Sheep Gate is in.
And, they say that the tower of Me-ah--the one right close to the Sheep
Gate--is about to collapse.
HEROD: shifting his position
in the throne chair slightly Tell 'em to go fix the wretched Sheep Gate and
all the other gates and all the towers and don’t bother me with it!
Hachaliah hurries in,
carrying the wine. Madam Hodesh and her dancers are right behind him, but they
stop at the entrance. Hachaliah goes straight to the king.
HACHALIA: after taking a
generous taste King Herod, here's you some real good wine.
Jarib eases his way out
HEROD: takes a sip
That's better. Where're the dancers?
HACHALIA: They're out there.
Gestures toward door They're ready to dance.
HEROD: Bring 'em in. gulps
more wine
Hachaliah goes to the door,
beckons to Madam Hodesh and the dancers to come in. Madam Hodesh leads the
troupe in. They form a semi-circle in front of the throne, bow, murmur "Oh, King, live
forever!" and move to the side. Madam Hodesh moves forward.
M. HODESH: to Herod
To honor the king, the youngest Hodesh dancer--little Zelzah--would like to do
a special new dance for you.
HEROD: mildly interested
Little Zelzah, you say. Now which one is Zelzah?
Zelzah steps toward king,
bows
ZELZAH: as if scared half
to death It's-- it's-- it's me, Your Majesty!
HEROD: pleasantly Dance
away! Gives a sweep of the hand, guzzles more wine.
Zelzah begins dancing. Other
dancers clap their hands and shake their tambourines. (Flutes, a zither, or
other instruments may be used.) Herod watches with apparent interest. But
before the dance is finished, Jarib rushes in and interrupts.
JARIB: brusquely King
Herod!
HEROD: Now what?
JARIB: Sir, there are three
foreigners out here I think you'd better see!
HEROD: Foreigners? Where
from?
JARIB: I don't know, for
sure. You remember two days ago a runner came in from your agents on the
eastern border and said there was a caravan of strange travelers headed toward
Jerusalem?
HEROD: Yeah, I remember. So
now they've arrived. So what?
JARIB: Your Majesty, they're
not ordinary people. They look rich, and very dignified, and-- and-- Well, to
tell you the truth, they look like three kings!
HEROD: Kings? Hmm-mm. They
could be spies... pauses Did they state their business? Say why
they're in Jerusalem?
JARIB: No, Your Majesty. All
I could get out of them was they have been following a star--of all things--and
they have a question to ask.
HEROD: Question?
JARIB: "The
question," they said, "is only for the ears of the king." Those
were their exact words.
HEROD: Show 'em in. turns
to dancers Madam Hodesh, you and your dancers go. Waves them out with a
flutter of the hand I'll call for you another time. Finishes wine, hands
glass to Hachaliah
Madam Hodesh and dancers bow
and back their way toward the side door. Madam Hodesh motions for the dancers
to go ahead; she slips behind a curtain to eavesdrop.
HEROD: to Hachaliah
Hachaliah, go see what you can find out about these suspicious looking
foreigners. Talk to their camel drivers. Bribe their servants. Unties money
sack at his waist, hands coins to Hachaliah.
HACHALIAH: Yes, Sir. Hurries
toward side door; discovers Madam Hodesh. She motions for him to be quiet.
M. HODESH: stage whisper I
want to see what happens!
JARIB: leading magi in
front of throne Your Majesty, King Herod, I bring before you distinguished
strangers! Backs away
Magi bow low
KASPAR: I am Kaspar.
MELCHIOR: I am Melchior.
BALTHASAR: I am Balthasar.
HEROD: all charm and
politeness You honor me and all Jerusalem with your presence. Have you
traveled far?
KASPAR: Yes, King Herod,
we've come far. From the East, from the "Land between the rivers."
BALTHASAR: We are searching
for a certain king.
HEROD: Ah, you yourselves
have the bearing and the appearance of kings! Could it be that you are
Orient kings?
KASPAR: Your majesty, you
flatter us. We are humble advisors to our kings. We are magi--keepers of sacred
things, and servants of God.
BALTHASAR: Too, we are
philosophers, prophets. We study the stars.
MELCHIOR: Some call us
astrologers. Stargazers.
HEROD: What brings you here?
KASPAR: It is the stars--or,
I should say one star, a new star--that brought us to this land of Judea.
HEROD: A new star? A search
for a certain king? And my attendant says you have a question to put to me.
Honorable Magi, you have me completely mystified! Please explain.
KASPAR: The question is
this: "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his
star in the East and are come to worship him!"
HEROD: so upset that he
trembles with suppressed rage The-- the King-- born-- born King of the
Jews? Why-- I-- I-- I am king of the Jews!
I wasn't born king.
I'm-- I'm an Indumaean by birth, but I've ruled here more than thirty
years--with Rome's blessing! Why, Julius Caesar himself gave me my first
appointment! And Caesar Augustus is my friend! There must be some mistake!
KASPAR: Ah, King Herod, do not
be troubled! Our search hast to do with the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy.
HEROD: Prophecy?
KASPAR: We think the
prophecy is recorded in the sacred writings of the Jews.
BALTHASAR: We felt sure your
scribes and priests could determine from these prophecies where this
infant king has appeared. We're most anxious to find him!
MELCHIOR: We had no
difficulty following the Child King's star until we neared Jerusalem. Then dark
night clouds and dust stirred by the desert winds completely hid it. We've not
seen the guiding star in three nights!
Herod, now composed, climbs
down from his throne and turns on the charm.
HEROD: pleasantly Ah,
that hot desert wind! We call it by its Arabic name, "sharug." 'Tis
an evil east wind. Travelers dread it.
Now, as for this ancient
prophecy you mention, I'm sure my chief priests and the scribes can find it.
I'll send a runner to the temple, right away, and have them bring the sacred
writings here to this room. I'll order them to search every scroll of holy
writ! Why, before the sun goes down we'll have the answer for you!
KASPAR: pleased Thank
you very much. That will surely help us.
HEROD: Sirs, you must be
weary from your long journey. Be guests here in the palace. Rest and refresh
yourselves. You and your servants. Tell your drivers to feed your animals with
mine, and let them rest too.
KASPAR: You are most
gracious.
HEROD: turning to Jarib Jarib, show these learned, holy men from
the East to our guest chambers. And order my personal servants to see to their
comfort.
JARIB: Yes, Your Majesty.
Magi bow and follow Jarib
out. The minute they are out of sight, Herod goes into a rage, stomping back
and forth, waving his hands in the air, and shouting. Both guards leave the
door and come to Herod.
HEROD: So! These spies want
to know WHERE IS HE WHO IS BORN KING OF THE JEWS!
It's a conspiracy! That's
what it is! A conspiracy! They say they are magi, following a star! A
star, indeed! To Mali and Melchi Send for the chief priests! Send for
the scribes! Go over to the temple and tell 'em I want every last book brought
here! The books of Moses! The books of the prophets! The books of wisdom! The
psalms! Every last line the Jews hold sacred!
ESLI: with some hesitancy
Sir, you want me and Melchi to go to the temple and get the priests and the
scribes?
Madam Hodesh pokes her head
out. Audience sees her. Herod doesn't.
HEROD: Of course! I'm not
talking to the wall, am I? You're the only people in here. Where's Hachaliah?
Get him in here!
ESLI: Sir, you sent
Hachaliah to--
HEROD: Never mind where I
sent him! Go tell Hachaliah to find me an astrologer! No, on second thought
I'll go find an astrologer myself. You guards stay here and lock the doors. I
don't want anybody going in or out of here for the rest of the day! Storms out
ESLI: Wow! Is he ever mad!
Herod pokes his head back in
the door.
HEROD: loudly One of
you lazy louts go get those scribes and priests and tell 'em I said find that
prophecy, OR ELSE! Leaves
ESLI: Yes, Sir!... Whew!
MELCHI: There's no telling
what that man may do!
Madam Hodesh slips out from
her hiding place.
M. HODESH: shaking her
finger and whispering Sh-hh! Let me out before you lock the door!
ESLI: much surprised
Madam Hodesh!
MELCHI: Ma'am, where'd you
come from?
M. HODESH: It's not where I
came from, it's where I'm going to that counts! I'm going to get
somebody who knows the sacred writings--better than all the
priests and the scribes!
Madam Hodesh hurries past guards; they also exit
End of Scene 3
Scene
4
Scene 4. Mid-afternoon that same
day, in the throne room. A table has been set up near Herod's throne, and the
priests and scribes are gathered around it, poring over scroll after scroll of
the sacred writings. There is an air of uneasiness, almost despair, among them.
Kali and Melchi are guarding
the door. Jarib is over in the corner, talking to the priests Mathtias and
Jazarus. Herod is conspicuous by his absence.
JARIB: to Jazarus and
Mathtias Confidentially, I've never seen King Herod so upset before. He
thinks these magi are part of a plot to overthrow his kingdom.
MATHTIAS: Is it true he's
ordered Roman troops to guard the palace?
JARIB: Oh yes--day and
night.
JAZARUS: I'm afraid he's
going to be furious with us about this prophecy in the sacred writings.
JARIB: But I thought you
told me several of the scribes had found references to the coming of a
king who will save Israel.
MATHTIAS: They have. They've
found half a dozen that we understand. But the king won't know
what they mean.
JAZARUS: Shel-e-mi-ah, here points
to scribe at end of table has even found a star prophecy that fits
what the magi say. But I doubt that King Herod will think much of it. I don't
know what we're going to tell him.
JARIB: Read him what you've
found. That's all you can do.
Hachaliah comes to announce
King Herod.
HACHALIAH: loudly
Herod the Great, King of all Judea, is here!
Scribes scramble to their
feet, and all bow. They stand until Herod is seated on his throne, then sit
back down and pick up their scrolls. Jazarus and Mathias remain standing.
HEROD: Well? You've been
sitting here six hours! Have you found out where this child "born
King of the Jews" is to be, or has been born?
JAZARUS: hesitating
Uh-- Yes, and no, Your Highness. We've located numerous wonderful
passages! One even mentions the star the magi talked about.
HEROD: Read it.
JAZARUS: Shelemiah. Gestures
for Shelemiah to read
SHELEMIAH: If it please the
king, I would like to explain that this is the ancient prophet Ba-laam speaking
to one King Ba-lak. Balaam says: reads
"I
shall see Him, but not now.
I shall behold Him, but not nigh.
There shall come a Star out of Jacob,
And a Scepter or a great king
Shall rise out of Israel."
Shelemiah sits back down
HEROD: And just where
does Balaam say this great king shall rise out of Israel?
SHELEMIAH: jumping back
up I'm afraid Balaam's prophecy doesn't say where it will be.
HEROD: It's no good then!
Shelemiah takes a long
audible breath and sits back down.
JAZARUS: Your Highness,
I-ri-jah found in the writings of Isaiah a sign concerning a king our
nation will have one day. It even tells what his name is to be.
HEROD: Now we're getting
somewhere. Let's hear it, Irijah.
IRIJAH: standing, reads
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign;
Behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son,
And you shall call his name 'Immanuel.'"
Pauses, resumes normal tone
Sir, if it please the king, the meaning of Immanuel is "God with
us."
HEROD: pounding the arm
of his chair I am not interested in God being with us! And I
wouldn't give two shekels for all the virgins in Judea!
I want to know where this child is! Either
you will find out where he is, or YOU'LL SEE YOUR OWN HEADS ROLLING
ACROSS THE FLOOR!
A murmur of dread comes from
the scribes and priests as Herod leans back on his pillows, muttering to
himself.
HEROD: to himself I
don't know why I've been cursed with such imbeciles!
Hachaliah enters, hurries to
Herod
HACHALIA: with urgency
King, Madam Hodesh is at the door, and she says--
HEROD: much annoyed
Madam Hodesh? You tell Madam Hodesh that this is no time for her dancers!
HACHALIAH: Sir, she's not
here to talk about dancing. She's brought our cousin, an elderly blind man, and
he--
HEROD: Hachaliah, are you
out of your mind? I am not interested in yours and Madam Hodesh's blind
cousin.
HACHALIAH: But, Sir, he's
the great teacher Elkanah!
Wave of surprise an pleasure
sweeps through scribes and priests at the mention of Elkanah's name. They
murmur their delight at the prospect of seeing and hearing the renowned rabbi.
Some say one thing, some another, quietly.
Shelemia:
Ah, the venerable Elkanah!
Jazarus: He will know the prophecy!
Irijah: Elkanah! Our most learned rabbi!
MATHIAS: Your Highness, if anybody
can tell you what the ancient prophets foretold, it is Elkanah.
JAZARUS: True, Sir! The
venerable Elkanah--though he has been blind for years--is the greatest teacher
and scholar in Jerusalem. He can recite the writings of Isaiah and Jeremiah and
Zechariah--all the Hebrew prophets--word for word!
HEROD: Bring him in. We'll
hear what he has to say.
All turn to watch as
Hachaliah ushers in Madam Hodesh and Elkanah. Madam Hodesh leads Elkanah to
face Herod.
M. HODESH: to Elkanah,
after she has bowed Cousin Elkanah, you're in front of the great Herod now,
and the room is full of scribes and priests.
Elkanah bows, then lifts his
head--proudly.
ELKANAH: King Herod, it's
being said in the marketplace that you are troubled. That all Jerusalem is
troubled. Because of three magi from the East.
HEROD: rather surprised
Oh, no! I'm not troubled! Not really. But I didn't know the news of these magi
had spread all over the city. Tell me, what are the people saying?
ELKANAH: It's being rumored
that these wise men are searching for a certain newborn Babe--a Child born
"King of the Jews." Is this true?
HEROD: That's what the magi
said. What else is being said in the marketplace?
ELKANAH: There's talk about
a star. The way it was told to me was that the magi saw the rising of the
Infant King's star in the East and that they followed it to our land of Judea.
Is there any truth in this rumor?
HEROD: Yes, they followed a
star. Leans forward Now, Honorable Elkanah, what I need to know from you
is what the ancient Jewish prophets prophesied, that is, where
this infant king is to be found! You do know the writings of the
prophets, don't you?
ELKANAH: Oh yes, King Herod.
Years ago--in a dream--the LORD showed me how when I was
old, my eyes would grow dim. So, I learned the sacred writings by heart! God speaks
to us in dreams, King Herod.
HEROD: getting impatient
Yes, yes, I know. And that's fine, very fine. But I've got no time for dreams.
I've got to find out where this Child King is going to appear.
ELKANAH: No offense to you,
King Herod, but for generations our people have looked for the coming of one
who would save all Israel. We call him the Messiah. He will come as a child.
HEROD: You're sure?
ELKANAH: Quite sure. The
prophet Isaiah said, and I quote:
As Elkanah recites the
exquisite lines, all in the room listen, spellbound--even Herod
"...
Unto us a child is born,
Unto us a son is given:
And the government shall be upon his shoulder;
And his name will be called Wonderful, Counselor,
The Mighty God, the Everlasting Father,
The Prince of Peace.
Of
the increase of his government and peace
There shall be no end.
Upon
the throne of David, and upon his kingdom,
To order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice
From henceforth even forever.
The zeal of the LORD of Hosts will perform
this."
There is a hush; then Herod
starts speaking slowly, in a normal tone. But his talk becomes faster and
faster and louder and louder as his extreme impatience returns.
HEROD: Honorable Elkanah,
your quotation was eloquent. But it doesn't answer the question! WHERE,
in the name of the LORD, is the child to be born?
Pounds fist on arm of chair
ELKANAH: as if taken back
at Herod's fury Where? Why 'tis the prophet Micah who tells us that!
Shall I quote Micah?
HEROD: sarcastically
I shall be eternally grateful, if you will...
ELKANAH: quoting
"But thou, Beth-lehem Eph-ra-tah, though thou be little among the
thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that
is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old,
from everlasting."
ALL: under their breath
Bethlehem!
HEROD: loudly
Bethlehem! So that's where the Child is! That's all I need to know. You
can all go. Waves the group away as if anxious to get rid of them
Priests and scribes,
relieved to get away from Herod, talk excitedly among themselves as they pick
up the scrolls and leave. Jazarus and Mathias go over to Elkanah to pay their
respects as they all exit. Remarks that the audience should be able to hear, as
they leave, are as follows:
Shelemiah:
I should have known Micah's prophecy!
Irijah:
Me, too. But I'd forgotten all about Micah.
Jazarus: Bethlehem, the City
of David! Of course! To Elkanah Ah, Rabbi Elkanah, you saved the day for
us!
MATHTIAS: to Hodesh
Madam Hodesh, it's a blessing that you brought the honorable Elkanah! We could
have been here till midnight!
Hachaliah runs to Hodesh, so
that he can get to speak to Elkanah, just before they go out the door.
M. HODESH: Cousin Elkanah,
here is Hachaliah. He wanted to speak to you.
ELKANAH: Ah, my son, you're
the king's cup bearer?
HACHALIAH: Yes, Sir, I am. I
run lots of errands, too. And--
HEROD: calling loudly
Hachaliah, come here! You too, Jarib.
HACHALIA: to Elkanah
I'm sorry, Sir, I have to go!
Madam Hodesh leads Elkanah
out. Hachaliah and Jarib hurry to stand before the king. Eli and Melchi keep
their usual post at the door.
HEROD: stepping down from
his throne Jarib, go get the magi. Tell them King Herod has asked for a
private audience with them.
JARIB: Yes, Your Highness. Bows
and leaves
HEROD: Hachaliah, I'm sending
you to Bethlehem with the magi. You'll be their guide.
HACHALIAH: But, Sir, they
don't need a guide to get from here down to Bethlehem! The road's
plain as day!
HEROD: You simpleton. Of
course they don't need a guide. But they don't know that. Lowering
his voice I want you to watch 'em! Make a note of everything they do,
everything they say, everyone they contact. Understand?
HACHALIAH: Oh, Yes Sir, I
understand, all right.
HEROD: Now, go get some of my
best wine--like that I had this morning--and serve it while I'm talking to 'em.
HACHALIAH: Yes, Sir. Hurries
out
HEROD: beckoning to
guards Come here! Esli and Melchi hurry over When these three
foreigners come in, lock the door. Don't let anybody else in. And turn off your
ears. My talk with them--whoever they are and whatever they're up to--is to be
in strictest secrecy.
ESLI and MELCHI: Yes, Sir!
Jarib arrives with the magi.
JARIB: announcing tone
King Herod, your distinguished guests from the East!
HEROD: all smiles and
charm Ah, come in, Sirs! How gracious of you to grant me a bit of your
time.
Magi bow
KASPAR: The pleasure is
ours, King Herod.
MELCHIOR: Indeed it is.
BALTHASAR: We are honored.
HEROD: Here, have a seat. Guides
them to sit at table used by scribes; Herod also sits at table I have good
news for you, but first try some of our Judean wine. And I want to talk to you
about studying the stars. It must be fascinating!
BALTHASAR: We find it so. It
is our life's work.
HEROD: This morning I decided
that I would engage an astrologer to teach me the meaning of the stars!
KASPAR: You were saying that
you have good news. Did your scribes find the ancient prophecy about the Child
born King of the Jews?
HEROD: enthusiastically
Yes, indeed! They found it just like that! Snaps fingers He is to be
born in Bethlehem--a place also called "The City of David." It's some
distance south of Jerusalem.
MELCHIOR: Ah, that is good
news indeed!
BALTHASAR: Think of it! Our
long search is almost ended!
HEROD: I'll furnish you a
guide to Bethlehem. And may I make a suggestion, and, ask a favor?
KASPAR: very pleasantly
Your suggestion is our command, King Herod. Doing a favor for you will
be a pleasure!
HEROD: earnestly When
you reach Bethlehem, search diligently until you find the young Child. And when
you've found him, please come back to Jerusalem and tell me. For I, too, must
pay him homage.
BALTHASAR: We'll be more
than glad to come tell you!
KASPAR: You're kind to offer
a guide to show us the way to this Bethlehem, but that won't be necessary. The
sky is clear, now. So tonight will simply follow the star!
HEROD: Ah, that star! I want
to ask you more about it. Just when did it first appear?
KASPAR: I would say about
two years ago. Glances at companions Am I right?
MELCHIOR: nodding head About
two years. First, it was dim. Then it grew brighter and brighter.
BALTHASAR: Yes, we watched
it for several months. Then, it took us some time to buy camels and provisions
for the journey, and we've been traveling since early spring.
KASPAR: setting down wine
glass and getting up Come, let us be on our way to Bethlehem!
Magi rise. Herod also gets
up.
HEROD: Now I'll be more than
glad to send an expert guide with you. My cup bearer Hachaliah knows the
road to Bethlehem like the palm of his hand!
KASPAR: No, no, King Herod.
We'll follow the star. You have been more than generous with your time and
hospitality. We thank you.
Magi bow, depart; Hachaliah
begins gathering up glasses.
HEROD: calling after the
magi--pleasantly Remember now, come and tell me when you've found the young
king!
Herod whirls around,
muttering, cursing and talking to himself.
HEROD: Damn it! Nobody is
going to outwit me! Hachaliah, get yourself down to Bethlehem. Be there
when they get there.
HACHALIAH: much worried
But, King Herod, the magi will see me!
HEROD: Use what
little brains you have! Disguise yourself!
HACHALIAH: Disguise myself?
HEROD: As a beggar, or a
shepherd, or a juggler--anything! For all I care, you can borrow one of Madam
Hodesh's costumes and be a Hodesh Dancer! Just get down to Bethlehem and
watch every move these magi make.
HACHALIAH: with
resignation Yes, Sir.
Herod strides off stage.
Guards follow Herod.
HACHALIAH: to himself
Things get worse by the day around here.
Walks out, head down
END OF ACT I
ACT
II--Scene 1
Scene 1: That same
afternoon, in Madam Hodesh's rehearsal room. Madam Hodesh is helping Hachaliah
dress himself as a shepherd. Several of the dancers are assisting. Zelzah holds
a shepherd's staff. Huldah has the cloak. Tizrah holds a lantern, which is not
burning.
M. HODESH: stepping back
to admire the costume Cousin Hak, I think you look exactly like a
shepherd! Takes cloak from Huldah and drapes in across H.'s shoulders
TIZRAH: You sure do! Holds
lantern to H.
ZELZAH: You look like a good
shepherd searching for his lost sheep!
HACHALIAH: Well, I feel
like the lost sheep!
M. HODESH: Here, picks up
sling from table don't forget your sling. All shepherds carry a sling and a
bag of rocks. Hands items to H.
ZELZAH: Here's your staff. Hands
staff to H. Good luck!
Hachaliah starts toward door
M. HODESH: Hak, we won't be
here when you get back. I'm taking the dancers down to Hebron--on a vacation
trip. Have I already told you this? So much has happened today I can't remember
half of what I've said!
HACHALIAH: No, you didn't
mention it. How long are you going to stay?
M. HODESH: Not long. Just
several days--till our bones get rested! We'll be staying with Uncle Zalaph,
and he won't want a tent full of dancers very long!
HACHALIAH: Thanks for
everything, Cousin Hodesh! Leaves
M. HODESH: coming back
from door Well, girls, we've done our good deed for one day. Let's go eat
supper. Then, get everything packed. We'll leave for Hebron, bright and early
in the morning.
All exit
End of Scene 1 of ACT I
I
Scene
2
Scene 2: Soon after
nightfall, that same day. On a road near Bethlehem. Hachaliah, garbed in his
shepherd's costume, sees a band of shepherds ahead. They appear to be highly
excited and in a hurry. Hachaliah runs to catch up with them.
HACHALIAH: waving his
lantern and calling out Hello! Hello there, shepherds! Wait for me!
Shepherds stop, look around,
wait for H. to catch up with them.
NATHAN: in friendly tone
Hello, stranger! You look like a shepherd--like us.
HACHALIAH: out of breath
Well-- uh-- uh-- I wear shepherd's clothes, all right. Are you going to
Bethlehem?
NATHAN: with joy and
excitement We sure are! Fast as we can!
E-LI-HU: Want to come with us?
We're going to find a Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger!
NATHAN: He's our Saviour,
Christ the Lord! Born this very day!
HA-NA-NI: The angels said
so!
HACHALIAH: What on earth are
you men talking about?
ELIHU: Nathan, you
tell him.
NATHAN: Not more than ten
minutes ago we were out there in the fields, waves arm watching over our
sheep like always, when all of a sudden a host of angels came floating down
from heaven!
ELIHU: interrupting
They nearly scared us to death!
HANANI: I thought I'd die!
NATHAN: It scared us, all
right. But the angels said not to be afraid and they started talking and
singing "Glory to God in the Highest and peace on earth--good will to
men," and they said to go into Bethlehem for today our Saviour,
Christ the Lord is born!
HACHALIAH: wide-eyed and
almost speechless This is incredible! I can't believe it!
ELIHU: The angels said the
good news is for all people, so come on and go with us!
HACHALIAH: joyously
Oh, I will! I will! I'm looking for a newborn Babe, too! A child King! A King!
It must be the same Child!
NATHAN: putting his hand
on Hachaliah's shoulder Good! Let's go!
All move on, and off stage.
Hachaliah talks on.
HACHALIAH: Now fellows, I'm
not a real shepherd. I'm just dressed up... voice trails off
End of Scene 2 of ACT II
ACT
II, Scene 3
Scene 3: That same night. In
a stable near Bethlehem. Mary and Joseph sit near the manger, looking down with
adoration at the Christ Child.
MARY: quietly, as she
smooths a fold of the swaddling bands wrapped about her newborn Babe Look
at him, Joseph. He sleeps so peacefully.
JOSEPH: calmly Very
peacefully... pauses He is a beautiful child!
MARY: Yes, beautiful! Pauses
Will you call his name JESUS?
JOSEPH: Yes. We shall call
his name JESUS. There is no other name.
MARY: I know. I remember the
words of the angel of the Lord. He said "Fear not, Mary; for thou has
found favor with God. ...thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a
son, and shalt call his name JESUS."
JOSEPH: still speaking
quietly Yes. Short pause The angel who came to me in a dream said
the same thing: "Thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his
people from their sins."
Joseph carefully presses
down a bit of the straw in the manger. He gets up suddenly when he hears a
noise and sees people coming with lanterns. The shepherds arrive. Joseph goes
to the entrance of the stable to meet them. Nathan steps out from the group and
goes to talk with Joseph.
NATHAN: urgently,
sincerely Sir, we are Bethlehem shepherds from out in the fields. Tonight
we're going from stable to stable, looking for a Babe wrapped in swaddling
clothes and lying in a manger. He's Christ the Lord!
JOSEPH: Yes, I know.
NATHAN: Do you know where he
might be?
JOSEPH: joyously, proudly
He is here! Waves toward manger Come and see Him!
Nathan walks slowly toward
manger. Joseph invites the other shepherds to come.
Come, all of you! Come see
the Holy Child!
All shepherds and Hachaliah
enter, look at the Child, and kneel in adoration--on left stage, near manger.
Magi arrive. Joseph goes to
invite them in. Kaspar steps ahead of other magi.
KASPAR: Sir, we are
magi--come from the East--to worship the One who is born King of the Jews. The
star we followed is shining down on this stable. Could the infant king
be here?
JOSEPH: Yes.
KASPAR: ...In this humble
place?
JOSEPH: Yes, Tonight, the
King you seek sleeps on a bed of straw. But the Lord our God has said that one
day "he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom
there shall be no end." Come and see him!
Magi follow Joseph to the
side of the manger. The servant boys carrying their treasure chest linger
behind.
JOSEPH: Here he is!
Magi gaze down at the child,
bow, kneel down, and then rise slowly.
KASPAR: to Joseph May
we give Him gifts?
JOSEPH: If you like.
Kaspar beckons to servant
boys. They bring chest, ease themselves to the side. Kaspar opens the chest,
lifts out bag.
KASPAR: speaking slowly,
to Joseph I give Him gold! Hands bag to Joseph, steps aside
MELCHIOR: taking
frankincense from chest and handing it to Joseph I offer frankincense.
BALTHASAR: lifting out
myrrh container and handing it to Joseph I bring him myrrh.
Lights dim. Magi bow again and leave. Shepherds exit
slowly. Joseph lays the gifts beside other bundles in the corner, picks up
bedroll.
JOSEPH: Mary, you must sleep
now. And rest. I'll make my bed here close to the Babe. Starts
spreading bedroll beside manger
MARY: Yes, it is
rather late. Yet I'm not anxious to sleep. All these things that have
happened--I shall keep them, and ponder them in my heart. Cf. Luke 2:19
Mary goes to back of stable
and lies down on improvised bed. Joseph goes to sleep on bedroll, close beside
manger. Lights out.
End of Scene 3
ACT
II, Scene 4
Scene 4: Later, that same
night. Among the clouds outside Heaven's gate. Three Dream Angels and a Death
Angel walk along together.
1ST DREAM ANGEL: much
concerned Death Angel, I didn't know you planned to go down to Earth with
us--to Bethlehem!
DEATH ANGEL: Oh, I'm not!
I'm not going down to Earth for two or three days yet. And when I do go,
I won't stop in Bethlehem. God is sending me to a city called Jerusalem.
Walks on I'll probably see you three when you get back. disappears
2ND DREAM ANGEL: to
other two We'd better get started.
3RD DREAM ANGEL:
Yes, it must be past midnight, on Earth.
1ST ANGEL: I
don't know about you two, but I rather like to speak to people in their dreams.
2ND ANGEL: Me
too, that is, when I have something good to tell.
3RD ANGEL: Well,
these warnings we're taking tonight could be worse!
Angels move to entrance of
Stable in Bethlehem set, stop. Mary, Joseph, and the Babe are all asleep, as at
the end of Scene 3.
1ST ANGEL: Which
one of us is going to speak to Joseph?
2ND ANGEL: to
first You warn him! Maybe you should wake him up so they can leave right
away.
1ST ANGEL: All
right. I'll tell him what God said, and wake him.
3RD ANGEL: We'll
wait for you.
First Angel walks to Joseph,
others wait at entrance.
1ST ANGEL: looking
down at J. Joseph! Stoops and taps his shoulder Joseph! Joseph
stirs, mumbles in his sleep Joseph! Joseph sits up, remains asleep
Hear what I have to say, Joseph. God has sent me to warn you.
JOSEPH: talking in his
sleep, without looking at angel Warn me? Warn me of what?
1ST ANGEL: speaking
slowly, distinctly, as if to a child You must get up and take the Holy Babe
and his mother, and flee into Egypt!
JOSEPH: repeating, not
asking question Flee into Egypt.
1ST ANGEL: King
Herod will try to destroy the Holy Child. He will search the land and try to
kill him.
JOSEPH: still asleep
Herod-- will try to kill-- leaps to his feet, wide awake, greatly startled Who--
what-- uh-- uh-- Who're you?
1ST ANGEL: God
sent me to warn you to leave Bethlehem! Tonight! Take the Holy Child and his mother
and go down to Egypt! Stay there till I bring you word!
Angel leaves swiftly. Joseph
follows a step or two, then runs to Mary. All angels exit.
JOSEPH: urgently
Mary! Wake up, Mary! Gets her awake We have to leave! Quickly!
MARY: Oh, Joseph! Runs to
manger; Joseph lifts up the Child
JOSEPH: Here, take the Babe.
Hands child to Mary And his gifts! Grabs up pouch holding magi gifts,
hands them to Mary
Joseph
quickly rolls their other belongings into the bedroll and hurries Mary and the
Babe out.
End of Scene 4
ACT
II, Scene 5
Scene 5: A few minutes later
that same night. At a grassy spot just outside Bethlehem, where the magi and
their servants have bedded down for the night. Kaspar, Melchior, Balthasar snore
peacefully. The three Dream Angels enter, walk about among the sleepers,
talking quietly.
1ST ANGEL: They
look so happy. Balthasar is even smiling in his sleep.
2ND ANGEL: I
suppose they are happy.
3RD ANGEL: Yes.
They found their king!
1ST ANGEL: Shall
we speak just to the magi, or shall we warn the servant boys, too?
2ND ANGEL: In
God's eyes, servants are as important as masters.
3RD ANGEL: That's
true.
One by one the angels bend
down and speak to the magi.
1ST ANGEL: to
Kaspar Kaspar, do not trust King Herod. He doesn't want to pay homage to
the Holy Child. He wants to kill him!
2ND ANGEL: to
Melchior Melchior, you and your companions must not go back to Jerusalem.
Choose another road when you return to your country.
3RD ANGEL: to
Balthasar Balthasar, do not tell Herod where you found the Infant King.
Angels gather near servant
boys
1ST ANGEL: Little
Servant Boys, when you wake in the morning, tell your masters that you dreamed
of angels. Tell them three angels came and said, "Leave Bethlehem and take
a secret way home." The evil king will try to kill the Babe to whom they
gave the gold and frankincense and myrrh!
Angels leave. Lights dim, go
out
END OF ACT II
ACT
III Scene 1
Scene 1: A few days later,
shortly after nightfall. At King Herod's palace. The king's attendant Jarib is
urging him to retire for the night. Instead, Herod paces back and forth in
front of his couch, fuming that Hachaliah has not returned from Bethlehem. Esli
and Melchi stand guard at the bedroom door.
HEROD: Where is that
Hachaliah? He should have been here yesterday!
JARIB: King Herod, Sir, why
don't you go to bed and try to get some rest? You haven't slept for three
nights!
HEROD: How can I sleep when
there's a plot to take my throne from me? I should have sent you to
Bethlehem to watch the magi.
JARIB: offering glass of
wine Here, King, tale a little wine and lie down.
HEROD: All right. Takes
glass, sits down on couch I am about dead on my feet. Gets up
abruptly Jarib, the Roman soldiers are still here, aren't they?
JARIB: surprised that the
king should ask Oh, yes Sir! Three Centurions and their men are guarding
the palace grounds twenty-four hours a day--just like you ordered.
HEROD: Good. Sits back
down
Hachaliah comes through the
door
ESLI: calling to Herod King
Herod, here he is!
MELCHI: to Hachaliah as
he runs past Hachaliah! What happened to you?
Hachaliah runs to Herod,
bows low
HACHALIAH: panting for
breath King Herod, I got here quick as I could!
Herod gets up slowly, begins
speaking slowly and then speaks fast and loud
HEROD: Hachaliah, I don't
know what kind of tale you've made up to tell, but it had better be good!
Otherwise, YOU'RE GOING TO SEE YOUR OWN HEAD ROLLING ACROSS THE FLOOR!
HACHALIAH: Oh, King, I beg
you to listen. I got back before sundown yesterday, but those Roman
soldiers wouldn't let me in the gate. I tried to tell 'em I'm your cup bearer,
but they just laughed and locked me up!
HEROD: harsh, demanding
tone What happened in Bethlehem? Did the magi get there? Did they find that
child? If they did, where is he? And where are they? And why haven't they come
back to Jerusalem? Come on, speak up! Speak up! In a hurry!
HACHALIAH talking fast
Yes, Sir. The magi got to Bethlehem, but I took a shortcut and got there first.
I ran into a bunch of shepherds and they said angels from heaven had told them
where to find the newborn Child. So I went with 'em, and we found Him--in a
stable, asleep on some hay--just like the angels had said! We bowed ourselves
down, for we could tell He was so-- so, uh-- Holy! That's what he was! Holy!
And we hadn't been there three minutes when the magi got there. They bowed down
too, and they gave Him presents! Stops to catch breath
HEROD: Hachaliah, I don't
believe half of what you're telling! But go on.
HACHALIAH: Well, right soon
the magi left and the shepherds too. I went with the shepherds, and--
HEROD: You went where
with the shepherds?
HACHALIAH: To their sheep
fold, out in the fields-- close to Bethlehem. You see, this time of the year
they keep watch over their flocks by night.
HEROD: Oh, you blithering
idiot! I send you to Bethlehem to watch three scheming magi from the East
and you go down there and WATCH SHEEP!
HACHALIAH: Oh, but King,
early next morning I went back into Bethlehem, and I went back to the place
where the magi had camped. But they were gone. And nobody knew where they went!
HEROD: Next, you're going to
tell me that then you went to the stable and the baby king was gone and
nobody knew where he went!
HACHALIAH: Yes, Sir, that's
what happened! I--
Herod grabs Hachaliah by the
collar, shoves him toward Jarib.
HACHALIAH: screaming
King, have mercy!
HEROD: Have him executed!
Jarib grabs Hachaliah,
starts dragging him out; but when Herod's head is turned, he whispers to Hachaliah
and lets him snatch away and run out the door. Eli and Melchi make a pretense
of trying to stop him, but he gets away. Jarib and the guards run out the door
but return immediately, without Hachaliah. They whisper among themselves.
Herod, meanwhile, sits down on his couch, gulps some wine, and talks to
himself.
HEROD: to himself Now
it comes to me what to do! I'll do it! I'll do it! They said that
star appeared in the East two years ago. So, my order will be two
years old and younger! Calling out Jarib?
JARIB: Yes, Sir! Hurries
to Herod What is it, Sir?
HEROD: Go get those Roman
officers!
JARIB: Now?
HEROD: Right now.
JARIB: Yes, Sir. Strides
out
HEROD: to himself
Nobody, nobody, is going to take my kingdom! Picks up crown
This is my crown! I've worn it thirty years! And I'll wear it till I
die! Puts on crown and sits down in throne chair to wait for Romans
Jarib enters, bring three
Roman Centurions. Centurions bow.
1ST CENTURION:
King Herod, you wanted to see us?
HEROD: Yes. I have orders
for you. Steps down from chair and walks back and forth Each of you
commands one hundred soldiers--right?
1ST CENTURION:
Yes, Your Highness, as Centurions, we are assigned 100 men. They are well
trained.
HEROD: Take your three
hundred soldiers, give each man a two-edged sword, go down to Bethlehem and kill
every male child two years old and under!
Centurions, Jarib and guards
all gasp in horror and disbelief.
1ST CENTURION:
Kill every male child?
2ND C.: King
Herod!
3RD C.: You can't
mean it?
HEROD: Search every house,
every tent. Go up and down every street, every road, from Bethlehem to our
borders--in all directions. Don't leave one child alive. Is my order
clear?
1ST CENTURION: without
emotion Your order is clear.
Centurions bow, march out in
step. Jarib follows them to the door. When he returns, Herod is taking off his
crown and making preparations to go to bed.
JARIB: with some
hesitation Sir, uh-- will you go to bed now?
HEROD: sitting down on
couch and trying to unfasten his sandals I might as well. Holds out foot
Jarib, see if you can unfasten this damn shoe.
Jarib removes king's
sandals, helps him into bed. Herod groans and closes his eyes. Jarib walks out
quietly, beckons the guards to follow him. They close the door behind
themselves. Lights go very low. Herod begins to snore. Death angel glides in.
She looks down at Herod, walks around behind his couch, begins speaking to him.
DEATH ANGEL: Herod, King of
Judea, of all men on earth this night, you are the most brutal. How could you order
the massacre of the innocents! Because of you, the sad words spoken by Jeremiah
the prophet will come true:
"In
Rama was there a voice heard,
lamentation, and weeping,
and great mourning,
Rachel weeping for her children,
And would not be comforted,
Because they are not."
Angel walks about--a few
steps--stops at the foot of the couch and speaks again.
King
Herod, you will die. Soon. Not by poison, as did your father.
Not by execution, as you decreed for your wife Miriamne and her mother.
Not by drowning, as you ordered for your brother-in-law, the high priest.
Not by strangulation, as you arranged for two of your own sons.
Not even by the swift two-edged sword, just ordered for Bethlehem's little
ones.
No, King Herod. God himself will decree how you shall die...
Death angel goes away.
End of Scene 1 of Act III
ACT
III, Scene 2
Scene 2: The following
evening, at dusk. In the tent of Zalaph, near Hebron. Madam Hodesh and her
dancers, and Hachaliah, are the guests of Zalaph and his wife. They all sit on
the tent floor, enjoying the evening meal and listening as Hachaliah tells of
being in Bethlehem and of his escape from King Herod.
ZALAPH: passing bread to
Hachaliah Here, my son, eat more! You've had quite a time of it.
HACHALIAH: Yes Sir, Cousin Zalaph.
It was wonderful to get to see the Holy Child in Bethlehem. But I thought sure
King Herod was going to kill me! He would have, if I hadn't run away.
M. HODESH: Hak, when the
magi got to Bethlehem and found the Holy Child King, what did they say?
HACHALIAH: I can't remember
exactly what they said, but they gave Him gifts. Fine gifts! Gold! And
frankincense! And myrrh!
A murmur of amazement and
approval sweeps through the group. Some say one thing, some another, all at the
same time.
Madam
Hodesh: My goodness! Those were gifts fit for a king!
Zalaph: Those were fine gifts!
Zalaph's Wife: Think of it--gold! And frankincense! And myrrh!
Zelzah: Marvelous!
Hodiah: The magi must be rich!
Tirzah: Imagine that! Such costly gifts!
Keziah: Gold! Oh my!
Izriah: Such gifts! Rich spices! And gold!
Huldah: I never heard of such presents!
Jecholiah: That was wonderful!
Dellah: Those were precious gifts! Real treasures!
M. HODESH: after the
exclamations have subsided I wish we had all been there--to see the Holy
Child. But, perhaps it's just as well we weren't. We wouldn't have had any
gifts to give Him.
ZELZAH: Madam Hodesh, we
could have danced for Him!
Other dancers murmur their
agreement with Zelzah
M. HODESH: I hadn't thought
of that. But you're right. We could have danced for him. When you do
what you can do best for someone, that's a present!
JOSEPH: calling loudly
from outside Hello, in there! Is there room in your tent for strangers?
ZALAPH: to Hachaliah
Son, you're quick on your feet. See who it is.
Hachaliah scrambles to his
feet and goes to the tent entrance. Standing there are Joseph and Mary with the
Christ Child.
JOSEPH: to Hachaliah
May we come in, out of the night?
Hachaliah is so surprised
that instead of answering, he runs back to Zalaph.
HACHALIAH: waving his
hands It's-- it's-- it's the people with the Holy Child! From Bethlehem!
M. HODESH & ALL DANCERS:
not in unison The Holy Child King!
Zalaph hurries to tent
entrance
ZALAPH: Welcome! Welcome! Motions
for Joseph and Mary to come in There's always room in the tent of Zalaph!
JOSEPH: Sir, we're trying to
get to Egypt, but we can't get any farther this night. May we stay here?
Zalaph ushers Mary and
Joseph in; as he talks, Zalaph's wife comes to guide Mary to a place in the
circle.
ZALAPH: The Lord has blessed
me by bringing you here. Come, eat with us, stay with us as long as you can!
ZALAPH'S WIFE: to Mary
Come my daughter, sit here by me.
As Zalaph and his wife get
Mary and Joseph seated, the dancers cluster together around Madam Hodesh. They
whisper to each other.
ZALAPH: to Joseph Not
five minutes ago my kinsman Hachaliah here gestures toward Hachaliah was
telling us about the Holy Child and how the magi came from a far country to
worship the Child and to give him gifts.
JOSEPH: Yes, they did. Shepherds
from our own country and wise men from far away all bowed down and worshipped
Him.
M. HODESH: to Joseph
Sir, we too wish to worship the Holy Child and to give him a gift. We have no
gold. Or frankincense. Or myrrh.
May we dance for Him?--as a
gift?
JOSEPH: nodding his head
Yes. Indeed, yes. It is what is in the heart that makes a gift to God a gift.
The HODESH DANCERS dance and
then kneel before the Christ Child.
CURTAIN
The End of the Play