Bull

By Mike Bartlett

Director – Cameron Watson

Brace yourself for a gripping and intense theatrical experience with “Bull” by Mike Bartlett, a razor-sharp play that delves into the brutal world of office politics and survival.  Set in a sleek, modern workplace, the drama unfolds in real time as three employees -Thomas, Isobel, and Tony – await a critical meeting with their boss.  With only two positions available, the tension escalates as Thomas becomes the target of merciless psychological warfare orchestrated by his cunning colleagues.

As the play begins, the audience is thrust into the high-stakes environment where Isobel and Tony, ruthless and manipulative, launch a relentless campaign to undermine Thomas.  Their tactics are as subtle as they are vicious, chipping away at Thomas’s confidence and dignity.  What starts as snide remarks and passive-aggressive comments soon spirals into a full-blown assault on his character and capabilities.  The dialogue crackles with Bartlett’s trademark wit and intensity, making every exchange a battle of wits and wills.

The minimalist set design heightens the claustrophobic atmosphere, drawing the audience into the characters’ cutthroat world.  The actors’ performances are electrifying, capturing the raw emotion and psychological complexity of their roles.  Isobel and Tony’s calculated cruelty is chilling, while Thomas’s struggle to maintain his composure and self-worth is both heart-wrenching and compelling.  The play’s unflinching examination of power dynamics and human vulnerability resonates deeply, leaving viewers questioning their own boundaries and ethical limits.

“Bull” is a masterclass in tension and storytelling, offering a potent commentary on the savage nature of corporate competition.  Mike Bartlett’s incisive writing and the play’s taut, one-act structure ensure that the audience remains riveted from start to finish.  This production is a must-see for anyone intrigued by the dark underbelly of professional life and the lengths people will go to secure their survival.  Secure your tickets for an evening of theatre that will leave you both breathless and reflective, in this unforgettable exploration of ambition and cruelty.

A Geoffrey Sword Studio Production (This is not part of our Season Ticket scheme)

Show Dates: 24^th February – 1^st March 2025 – curtain up at 7.45pm

This amateur production of ’Bull’ by Mike Bartlett is presented by special arrangement with Nick Hern Books Ltd.