Bella, Boss and Bulli

Based on a play by German playwright Volker Ludwig, “Bella, Boss and Bulli” introduces audiences to a new direction in theatre for children: theatre that addresses problems. Children need to be able to talk about problems and difficult things. When a child has a problem and thinks they are alone in facing it, things are very hard; but when they see it from the outside, they realise that it no longer seems so tragic. The main characters are three seven-year-old friends: Bella, Boss and Bulli. The beautiful rebel Bella moves to another city with her mother and starts at a new school. There, she befriends two boys: the energetic mischief-maker Bulli and Boss, the accommodating son of wealthy parents. They enjoy spending time together, teasing one another gently, but unexpectedly all three become caught up in an unpleasant blackmail affair. Will the children manage to resolve the conflict without help from adults? Will their friendship withstand its first serious tests? This play explores current issues while also offering plenty of humour and thought-provoking hints. The action is accompanied by live songs that get the young audience moving. Director Antanas Gluskinas says he does not aim to reform children’s theatre with this production; he simply wants to talk with children about topics others avoid. “When parents, teachers, public figures and television are silent, theatre must speak,” the director believes. “Boldly, playfully, without excessive didacticism or a moralising tone.” Premiere: 15 June 2008. Revived: 7 June 2024. AWARDS: In 2008, the Ministry of Culture awarded director Antanas Gluskinas the Ministry’s prize and the Golden Stage Cross commemorative insignia in the Theatre for Children category for the production “Belas, Bosas ir Bulis” (Šiauliai Drama Theatre). “Bella, Boss und Bulli” is presented under licence from Felix Bloch Erben GmbH & Co. KG, Berlin, Germany. Funded by: