Storyhouse is looking for dog owners who would like their canine companion to star as Toto in our performances of The Wizard of Oz!

This is a great opportunity for anyone who would like to spend time seeing how a professional theatre production works behind the scenes, and who may want to get their pet into the acting business – who knows, you may have the next Lassie or Pudsey on your hands! Toto is a very important role in The Wizard of Oz – she is the fifth member of the yellow brick road gang and therefore spends a lot of time on stage in scenes.

Could your dog be Toto?

The dog that we are looking for does not need to be any specific breed. We would like a small to medium sized dog that can be picked up happily. No acting experience is required, however we do need a dog who is well trained with a calm temperament. Your dog will need to be picked up by different character in the play and will need to walk on the lead for some scenes. We are looking for a dog who does not get anxious if he/she cannot see his owner as they would not have sight of you once on stage. You need to be available for at least 15 shows. We will need you to bring your dog and stay with him/her for the duration of the show (2.5 hours). On-stage lighting will be used throughout the show and so the dog will also need to be comfortable with lighting changes and loud noises that will be taking place around him/her.

How to apply.

Applicants must be prepared to commit to at least 15 performances during the run of the show between the dates of Thursday 6th December and Sunday 6th January. You will also need to be available for two rehearsals prior to this.
Check the performance schedule here.
All expenses will be paid to the successful applicants.

For an application form please email helen@storyhouse.com or call 01244 409113.
The deadline for all applications to be received is Monday 29th October.