After the recent search for local boys to perform in The Go-Between later this year, Royal & Derngate are now on the lookout for local dogs to take a cameo role in their forthcoming production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona, which takes to the Royal stage from Friday 30 September to Saturday 22 October 2011
The production puts an interesting twist on Shakespeare’s tale of love, friendship and infidelity, transporting it to a pop-culture world of music, fashion and paparazzi. Reflecting this setting director Matthew Dunster is looking a small dog, sometimes described as a ‘handbag dog’, along the lines of a Chihuahua, pug, miniature poodle or Yorkshire terrier, to portray Launce’s dog Crab.
Company stage manager Meryl Couper explains: “The dog doesn’t need to be able to do any fancy tricks but must be good-tempered and placid, and capable of staying still on command. Above all the dog must be happy being on stage under lights in front of an audience.”
Ideally the role will be shared between two dogs, so they can alternate performances. The selected dogs would need to be available for some rehearsals between Monday 29 August to Monday 26 September and for performances from 30 September to 22 October.
Auditions for dogs to take part in The Two Gentlemen of Verona will take place on the week commencing Monday 22 August. Anyone interested in bringing their dog to audition should contact the theatre for more information and to be given a time. To register on interest please email your contact details to twogents@royalandderngate.co.uk or call Meryl Couper on 01604 655774.
For more information about the production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona or to book tickets, visit the theatre’s website at www.royalandderngate.co.uk or call Box Office on 01604 624811.
