Bedtimes and Bullies

Bedtimes and Bullies is a Canadian adaptation of the highly popular play Max und Milli originally produced by the world-renowned GRIPS Theatre in Berlin. While Bedtimes and Bullies touches on difficult issues such as bullying and conflict resolution, it is a fun, light-hearted play that emphasizes the positive effects of children seeking enjoyment from their own imaginations instead of relying on toys that suggest conflict or destruction

Siblings Kevin and Kelly share a big bedroom where they create imaginative games using bedclothes and stuffed toys. One day while they are in a local playground they are bullied by a boy named Peter, who threatens them with a cap gun. After a few encounters with Peter, Kevin and Kelly eventually report the incidents to their mother, who confronts Peter's father. The reasons for Peter's difficult behaviour become clear when his father loses his own temper while refusing to accept responsibility for his son's actions. While the parents are unable to resolve this conflict, Kevin and Kelly eventually befriend Peter, inviting him home and drawing him into their games. In a positive and creative environment, Peter's aggressive behaviour dissolves to the point that even his own father does not recognize him.

Pictured - Joel Wirkkunen, Jacques Lalonde and Eileen Barrett.
Photo by David Cooper

Recommended Audience: For Children

Themes

• Bullying
• Creativity/Imagination
• Conflict Resolution