The Bully Problem
- Van Der Bort (pre-release mix)
- SLAFPOC (pre-release-mix)
- Off Balance (pre-release mix)
- Operational (pre-release mix)
The show
Fourteen-year-old tech whiz Kevin Dijkstra just wants to build robots, but the bullies at Van Der Bort Junior High are making that tough. When Kevin gets the idea of using a high-tech android to defend his classmates against the bullies, he’s suddenly thrown into a conflict that could change the school forever!
THE BULLY PROBLEM is a family-friendly musical with witty humor, catchy tunes, humorously distinct characters, and a smidge of science fiction. It focuses on the subjects of bullying, recognizing self-worth, and the importance of human connections. Suitable for both grownups and young audience members alike! (But not bullies.)
Book, music, and lyrics by Michael Gordon Shapiro

During development, the show was presented at the 2018 ASCAP Musical Theatre Workshop adjudicated by Stephen Schwartz.
The show had its commercial premiere at the 2019 Hollywood Fringe festival, where it earned an Encore Producers Award and was a Pick of the Fringe selection. It was also nominated for seven awards including Best Musical, Top of the Fringe, and Fringe First. In 2022 The Bully Problem was a finalist for the prestigious Richard Rogers Award for musical theater.
Cast album
The official cast album is planned for later this year. In the meantime, enjoy some of the demo recordings above!
For more information
For more information about this project, please visit www.thebullyproblem.com
