The Story of Hanukkah

While learning about Hanukkah, a group of students receives a surprise visit from some famous Jewish people who will help them understand its history and meaning. A wonderful choice for elementary students or even for older children to perform for younger audiences.

CHARACTERS:

Narrator
Judah Maccabee
Albert Einstein
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Golda Meir
Anne Frank
Child 1
Child 2
Child 3

Scene 1: A Classroom Discussion

(The stage is set as a classroom. The children are sitting at their desks, and on the chalkboard, the word “Hanukkah” is written in big letters.)

Narrator:
Today in school, the students are learning about a very special holiday called Hanukkah. But they’re about to get a visit from some famous Jewish people who will help them understand its history and meaning.

Child 1:
I’ve heard of Hanukkah, but I don’t really know what it’s all about.

Child 2:
Yeah, I just know there are candles and you get presents for eight days.

Child 3:
And something about a miracle with oil?

Narrator:
Just as the students started asking questions, the room filled with light, and suddenly, they were not alone.

Scene 2: Judah Maccabee and the Hanukkah Story

(Judah Maccabee enters, holding a sword and shield. He stands tall and proud.)

Judah Maccabee:
Greetings, young friends! I am Judah Maccabee, and I’m here to tell you the story of Hanukkah. Long ago, over 2,000 years ago, in a land called Judea, my people faced a great challenge.

Child 2:
What happened?

Judah Maccabee:
A king named Antiochus ruled our land, and he didn’t allow us to practice our Jewish traditions. He even took over our holy temple and filled it with things that weren’t part of our faith. But my brothers and I, known as the Maccabees, led a group of brave people to fight back and protect our way of life.

Child 1:
Wow, you must have been really brave!

Judah Maccabee:
It wasn’t easy, but after many battles, we won! We took back our temple and wanted to light the menorah, which is a special lamp. But there was only enough oil for one day.

Scene 3: The Miracle of the Oil

Narrator:
And here’s where the miracle of Hanukkah comes in. The oil that should have lasted for just one day… burned for eight whole days!

Judah Maccabee:
Yes, it was a miracle! That’s why we celebrate Hanukkah for eight days, to remember the miracle of the oil and the victory of keeping our faith alive.

Scene 4: Learning About Hanukkah Traditions

Narrator:
Just as Judah was finishing his story, more visitors arrived-important figures from Jewish history who helped shape the world in other ways.

(Albert Einstein enters, adjusting his glasses and holding a notebook. Ruth Bader Ginsburg follows, looking dignified in her robe. Golda Meir and Anne Frank join them.)

Albert Einstein:
Hello, everyone! I’m Albert Einstein. While I’m known for my work in science, I have always appreciated the meaning behind Hanukkah-the power of light and knowledge, even in the darkest times.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg:
And I’m Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I served as a Supreme Court Justice in the United States. Hanukkah reminds us that standing up for what is right, just like the Maccabees did, can make a difference.

Child 3:
Wow, I didn’t know Hanukkah was about fighting for your rights!

Ruth Bader Ginsburg:
It is! Hanukkah is about justice, freedom, and being true to who you are, even when it’s difficult

Scene 5: Hanukkah in Modern Times

Golda Meir:
I’m Golda Meir, and I was the Prime Minister of Israel. For many Jewish people around the world, Hanukkah is a reminder that we should be proud of our heritage. It’s a celebration of resilience and hope.

Anne Frank:
And I’m Anne Frank. Even in the darkest times, like when my family had to hide during the Holocaust, the message of Hanukkah-hope and perseverance-helped us stay strong.

Child 1:
Hanukkah seems like such a powerful holiday with so much history.

Albert Einstein:
Yes, it’s about more than just presents or food, though those are fun too! It’s about the light of knowledge, freedom, and the miracle of never giving up.