On Stage: "The Bully Plays"

On stage this Friday and Saturday, Huntington's First Stage Theatre Company tackles a unique show.

Most theatrical performances by children's theatres tend to focus on entertainment - songs, dances, a few laughs - often with a message, but with the emphasis on fun.

But The Bully Plays rises above all that. 

The show is a collection of 10-minute plays that are funny, or touching, or moving - but at the heart, it's tackling a very serious problem for young people.

Most kids (and many adults) face the problem of bullying - whether it's being teased, physically abused, cyber-bullying or being mentally tormented - and this show addresses the problem with straighforward and imaginative looks at the different kinds of bullying and what kids can do to protect themselves and their friends.

It's a daring show, one unlike any other First Stage has tackled in its 23-year-long history - but it's a very important topic, and one that needs to be addressed.

None of this is to say that the show is filled with nothing but serious moments and preaching. It's loaded with laughs, drama and powerful, uplifting, touching moments.  

A cast of about 30 young actors and adults bring the stories to life, and helps spread the message that its time to put an end to bullying.

There are three shows open to the public, including a show Friday at 7:30 p.m., and two shows on Saturday - one at 2 p.m. and the other at 7:30 p.m.

All the shows will be presented at the Jeslyn Performing Arts Center (the former Camelot Theatre) at 1030 Fourth Avenue in downtown Huntington. 

It's an important show, especially for kids in middle and high school - a serious subject, but one well worth exploring. These plays challenge, inspire and enlighten audiences and help confront a serious issue in a constructive and creative way.

Highly recommended!