Is Your Dog a Star? Last Call for Canine Casting

Published on: 6 May, 2017
Updated on: 8 May, 2017

Matt Pinches with a “star” dog in an previous GSC production.

By Alice Fowler

Does your dog have star quality, a gift for theatricals and a secret wish to tread the boards?

If so, your pet may be exactly what the Guildford Shakespeare Company (GSC) is looking for for its open-air production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona this summer.

The GSC is making a final call – for three dogs, not one – with selection taking place early next week. “We are particularly interested in hearing from large but docile dogs,” says GSC co-founder Matt Pinches.

“Certainly if there are any dogs that have experience of being on stage (or barking in Shakespeare) the company would love to hear from them…and their owners.”

Those canines lucky enough to be selected will play the infamous part of Crab, an unruly but lovable dog who constantly disobeys his master. Crab features in two key scenes in this early Shakespeare comedy, one of which famously featured in the Oscar-winning film Shakespeare in Love, and ends up ‘making water against a gentlewoman’s farthingale’ (not actually shown on stage!)

GSC hope to find three dogs to share the 17 performances, which will take place at the University of Law from July 14-29. It is anticipated that the dogs will perform alternate nights, although they will need to be available for one of the following rehearsal dates: 12, 13, 14 July.

Once Crab’s final scene has finished, they are free to go home, or may stay for the curtain call to meet their public. There is no fee for Crab, but GSC will provide them and their owners with their own gazebo dressing room, complementary tickets and as many Bonios as Crab demands.

If you think your dog might relish the opportunity to tread the boards with GSC this summer, then please contact Matt Pinches on 01483 301590 or via email at info@guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk.