“‘Sticks and stones my break my bones by names can never hurt me.’ …NOT!” proclaims “The Bully Plays”, a collection of vignettes about bullies and their victims presented at the Junior High from Nov. 14 through 15.

The production was very small scale but that was intentional to drive in the impact of the dialogue. Concepts ranging from bystanders to trickle-down abuse were tackled by the student performers.

“I really liked that they were tackling a serious and relevant topic. The kids were awesome,” theater teacher Mr. John Whapham said.

No two vignettes were the same; while one story was a more traditional format, the next was presented as a circus, then the next would be strictly physical clowning.

Many students of junior high age need to hear messages of kindness and support. Real instances of assault and even suicide are not unheard of in teenage populations.

“I think it’s very good to entertain kids while also delivering an important message,” lighting designer for the show, junior Tyler Miller said.

To find out more about the play and read additional selections, visit here.