Bully Virus

Are you a victim of workplace bullying? Does the thought of schmoozing with your colleagues at an office social event make you go ‘eesh’? Do you sit next to a passive aggressive co-worker? Then chances are you’re not alone. Australia has one of the highest rates of workplace bullying and harassment. Let La Mama Theatre alleviate your in-house uproars, boardroom showdowns and water-cooler politics with their latest show, Bully Virus.

Directed and written by Kate Herbert, Bully Virus is a satirical yet moving examination of the workplace, uncovering its most scandalous and traumatic moments. Performed outstandingly by Jenny Lovell, Carole Patullo and Geoff Wallis, they each play dual roles of HR employee and victim. The show is at its most comical when the trio morph into a sneering HR team, scoffing at various bullying complaints they receive. Dismissing the allegations with a scowling whine, whine, whine, their attitude speaks to the paradox that exists today. On one hand, tomes of anti-bullying materials are produced while on the other, bullying claims are often swept under the carpet.

As victims, Lovell, Patullo and Wallis shower a war of words within the walls of La Mama Theatre. Each actor re-tells real-life stories of the horrible circumstances some people find themselves in. As with most things, bullying is initially fairly innocuous – a casual remark, not getting invited to a meeting – which then develops into an unbeatable beast – swearing, yelling, demotions. Each story felt extremely relatable, where you could think of someone, or a workplace, known for this culture. The way the actors use dialogue, expressions and their body language to convey the twists and turns of the stories is a testament to their skilful precision at taking the audience on a journey.

“I am still trying to use theatre to shine a light on social issues and hoping that it might trigger some social change,” says Herbert. As it stands, 40% of the working population have experienced workplace bullying. Hopefully after watching Bully Virus, you will find the anecdote to cure it once and for all.

Special note: La Mama Theatre was destroyed by a fire on Saturday, 19 May. This is a huge loss for the community as the heritage listed building was a launching pad for many actors in Australia. We are sure that they will be back on their feet in no time, but in the meantime, our thoughts are with you.

Bully Virus
David Williamson Theatre, Melbourne Polytechnic, 54 St John St, Prahran
Till Sunday, 27 May 2025
lamama.com.au/2018-autumn-program/bully-virus-may-16-27