THE CANINE equivalent of Brad Pitt or Scarlett Johansson is being sought for a new production coming to The Hexagon next spring – and dogs across Reading and Wokingham are being encouraged to pick up the dog and bone to find out more.
Award-winning opera director and producer Ellen Kent is behind a new touring production of a romantic opera La Bohème – not the Barker of Seville – and a critical role in the show is a four-legged friend who won’t get stage fright.
Puccini’s masterpiece, La Bohème, is based on Henri Murger’s novel Scenes de la vie de boheme. Set in Paris, it focuses on the tragic love between seamstress Mimi and penniless poet Rodolfo.
Ellen says it is one of the most romantic operas ever written, and for the new tour it will be traditionally staged featuring beautiful sets and costumes.
The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period and will include a brass band, snow effects and a full choir and orchestra.
It will be performed in the traditional Italian with English subtitles … and a guest role for a proud pooch.
“People say never work with children or animals, but I love to do both,” Ellen explains.
“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.”
This isn’t the first time that Ellen has found a role for man’s best friend.
“Many years ago, when we last did La Bohème and asked local people to volunteer their pets it was a huge success,” she says.
“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.”
Applicants need to have a dog that is well-behaved, small, used to people and quiet – and the owner, will need to be prepared to go on-stage in costume to look after them.
Those wanting to audition, should email Anegla Klappa a photograph of the dog: angela@ellenkent.co.uk
Applications should include a contact number and address as well as the breed, height, weight, age, and name of the dog.
Deadline for entries is Friday, March 24.
The successful dog’s owner will be contacted a week before the performance, which is Thursday, April 13.
And for those who want to just enjoy the show from the seats, tickets are
Tickets for La Boheme, costing £31, £33, or £36, are available from www.whatsonreading.com
