Synopsis

Fourteen-year-old tech whiz Kevin Dijkstra just wants to build robots, but the bullies at Van Der Bort Junior High are making that tough. When Kevin gets the idea of using a high-tech android to defend his classmates against the bullies, he’s suddenly thrown into a conflict that could change the school forever!

THE BULLY PROBLEM is a family-friendly musical with witty humor, catchy tunes, humorously distinct characters, and a smidge of science fiction. It focuses on the subjects of bullying, recognizing self-worth, and the importance of human connections. Suitable for both grownups and young audience members alike! (But not bullies.)

Awards and distinctions

History

THE BULLY PROBLEM was developed by Michael Gordon Shapiro in association with New Musicals Inc. The show had its first workshop production at the 2017 STAGES Festival (North Hollywood, CA) and was one of only two shows to be accepted in the 2018 ASCAP Musical Theatre Workshop in Los Angeles, run by Academy Award winning composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz.

In June 2019 the show made its world premiere at the Hollywood Fringe festival, where it was met with ardent enthusiasm from audiences and critics alike, and sold out every performance at the 96-seat Broadwater Main Stage. In addition to receiving seven award nominations, The Bully Problem won the Encore Producer’s Award, which resulted in extension performances at Hollywood’s historic Arena Stage.

Licensing

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