Theatre producers in search for talented pets (From York Press)

Theatre producers in search for talented pets

9:09am Friday 3rd February 2012 in News By Richard Catton, richard.catton@thepress.co.uk

DOES your pooch have the star quality needed to rise above the pack and make it as top dog in the opera world?

The producers of a forthcoming production of La Boheme are looking to sniff out talented pets for the role of Muzetta’s dog and have turned to pet owners in York to fill the role.

The Ukranian National Opera’s production of the romantic Italian tale is coming to York’s Grand Opera House next month and auditions are now open.

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, goldfish and once even a golden eagle with a 6ft wingspan on stage.

“Many years ago, when we last did La Boheme and 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.”

Talent spotters say they are looking for a small, well-behaved dog, with an owner who is prepared to go on stage in costume to look after their pet.

The production, which comes to York on March 1, features Korean sopranos Elena Dee and Maria Tsonina, who will take the leading role of Mimi.

They are joined by a 70-strong company including tenor Ruslan Zinevych, who has sung with Pavarotti and performed Ellen’s operas at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

If you think your pet has what it takes, send a photograph to Louise Delahunty, at Derek Block Concert Promotions, 70-76 Bell Street, Marylebone, London NW1 6SP or email her at louise@derekblock.co.uk

Include your contact number and address as well as the breed, height, weight, age and name of your dog. The closing date is February 17.