In a brazen move for the incoming senior rabbi of Australia’s largest congregation, Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio OAM has announced a Purim spiel that will dig up things modern society has tried very hard to bury: blue eyeshadow, big hair, spandex, acid-washed denim, and high-top sneakers. She’s calling it Back to the Jewture, and anyone old enough to have experienced the ’80s the first time around is up in arms.

In leaked documents secured independently by Purim Press, the congregation has been invited to don their “flashiest ’80s finery for a vividly vibrant voyage back to 1986 with Esther to see if she can save the Jewish Future from the clutches of Haman.”

On the surface, this seems like a bit of harmless, wholesome fun, but the Fashion Police has been quick to remind us that Lycra is a friend to no one, much less those seasoned enough to have original articles in their closets. Meanwhile, social commentators are speculating that with Mardi Gras being the same weekend, this is just one big ploy for Rabbi Ninio to recycle her outfit from the night before.

Purim Press reached out to Rabbi Ninio for comment without success.

On the other side of the divide, Gen-Z congregants are positively tickled by the theme – nostalgia is trending, according to recent TikTok reports – and are turning to the archives (magazines) for outfit inspo.

After Eastern Suburbs boutiques were emptied of every last pretty pink piece in 2024 and every last dreary dud in 2025 (remember Esther and The Tikkun Addams Family??), they’ve taken to hoarding vintage garments with shoulder pads in an array of eye-wateringly neon-coloured, highly flammable textiles in anticipation of the rush of Emanuel congregants seeking scene-stealing, on-theme ensembles. Purim Press‘ style editor advises, “If it doesn’t clash, throw it in the trash.” Attendees should embrace maximalism, or risk making a fatal fashion faux pas.

Embracing the next generation’s enthusiasm for the theme, Emanuel Synagogue is inviting young adults—strictly under 35, despite how young one might look for their age—to a pre-spiel get-together, offering a complimentary drink on arrival and some snacks. Independent business analysts have confirmed this to be a sound strategy.

Emanuel Synagogue has also announced a family carnival, hamantaschen baking, and a rowdy Megillah reading—there goes the neighbourhood—and a spokesperson from the shul has advised that Purim program participants are required to register in advance to save their spots and arrive promptly for each event.

Purim Press is nothing if not thorough, so here’s the full list of Emanuel Synagogue offerings and registration links –

Thu 26 February, 10.00 am & 12.30 pm – Hamantaschen baking bee – register
Sun 1 March, 10.00 am – Family carnival and pizza party – register
Sun 1 March, 10.00 am – Hamantaschen baking bee – register
Sun 1 March, 4.30 pm – Young adult pre-spiel drinks – register
Sun 1 March, 6.30 pm – Purim spiel: Back to the Jewture – register
Mon 2 March, 8.00 pm – Megillah reading + Supper – register

Until next time.