Calgary dogs sought for role of Toto in ‘Wizard of Oz’ stage performance

(Pexels/Monica Silvestre)

If your pup’s got talent, this could be the start of a tail-wagging journey “somewhere over the rainbow.”

Alberta Theatre Projects (ATP) is on the hunt for a four-legged star to play Toto in its holiday production of The Wizard of Oz.

The company says it’s looking for one or two small dogs — no more than 15 pounds — with enough charm to steal scenes and enough calm to handle the twister of lights, music and movement on stage.

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The chosen pup (or pups) will join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion on stage at the Martha Cohen Theatre from Nov. 25 to Jan. 4.

“This exciting casting call invites Calgary’s dog-loving community to help find the furry star of one of the most iconic musicals of all time,” said Haysam Kadri, artistic director of ATP.

ATP says the ideal Toto is well-behaved, responsive to commands, comfortable in a busy Emerald City of actors and props — and perfectly fine being whisked away in Dorothy’s arms at a moment’s notice.

Payment is not in Kibbles, this is a paid contract, with the Toto’s off-stage human companion serving as handler and staying on-site for all rehearsals and performances starting Oct. 31.

Would-be stage dogs should send a photo and a short description to [e-mail] by 10 p.m. on Aug. 4 to be considered.

Full audition details are available at albertatheatreprojects.com/auditions.

Auditions are set for Aug. 13 at Werklund Centre.