How can you use bullying in drama?

Answer 1

I have been involved in drama and theatre for a long time, so I think I can help. Although there are many different approaches, here is my advice:

1) Start with a person on stage or entering the stage. This should be a normal character, with no particularly outstanding traits, so that it can be relatable to the audience. This could be made into two people, or a larger group.

2) Next, have the bully enter the stage. This could be a physically threatening bully, a verbal bully, or any other figure that poses as a threat in anyway. Get creative with what the bully wants, how he plans to get it, and the reactions of others on stage.

3) Have him bully the "normal character(s)" on stage. The conflict should be established almost immediately after the bully is introduced. It should be clear what kind of relationship the bully and the victim have and how the victim feels about being picked on. Don't be hasty to end this conflict. It creates tension, which is a great tool to have in a scene.

4) If you choose to have the bully threaten the victim physically, do not let the conflict escalate into violence. Unless both actors are trained in stage combat, this should not be attempted.

5) Depending on the requirements of the scene, it can end in several different ways. If the bully succeeds, you should show the victim afterwards reflecting how he/she feels about it. If the victim succeeds, you should also show him/her afterwards reflecting on how he/she overcame the bully. If an authority figure enters to break it up, maybe show the bully reflecting on his wrongdoings. These emotional factors will bring a good element to your scene.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

You can create like a stage fight. That will keep you busy for sure. Ask your director what that is.