Theatre production on the lookout for pooch with star quality

A pooch preparing for the stage
-Credit:UGC


Does you dog have what it takes to be an opera star? The search is on for the perfect pooch to feature in a new production.

If your pet pooch is the canine equivalent of Brad Pitt or Scarlett Johansson, then they could win a place in the spotlight in the beautiful and romantic Puccini opera La Bohème, coming to Darlington Hippodrome on Thursday, March 13.

Award-winning opera director and producer Ellen Kent said: "People say never work with children or animals but I love to do both. The first time was 20 years ago when my pet cat Holly Go-Lightly was in one of my productions and was an instant hit. Since then, we've had horses, dogs, goldfish and even a golden eagle with a 6ft wingspan on stage.

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"When we last did La Bohème in 2023 we asked local people to volunteer their pets - it was a huge success. We even used a rescue dog once and found him dozens of new owners! We're a nation of animal lovers after all. I'm sure there is plenty of doggie talent out there."

The producer is looking for a dog that is well-behaved and medium/small in size - and owners must be willing to go on stage in costume to look after him or her, but no singing skills are required.

Anyone interested should send photographs of their dog to Ellen Kent at ellen@ellenkent.co.uk and include a contact number and address as well as the breed, height, weight, age and name of their dog. The production company will contact anyone who is successful.

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Ellen Kent brings one of the most romantic operas ever written to the stage in her new tour, traditionally staged and featuring beautiful sets and costumes. The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period and will include snow effects.

La Bohème comes to Darlington Hippodrome on Thursday, March 13, followed by Madama Butterfly on Friday, 14 March. For full details or to book visit www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01325 405405.

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