Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre is looking for the perfect pooch to play the role of Crab in its upcoming Chester production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona.

Opening July 1 and running until August 21, The Two Gentlemen of Verona will be performed in rep with a new adaptation of Stig of the Dump and Shakespearean comedy As You Like It.

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Auditions will be taking place on Monday, May 23 from 6pm at Queen’s Park High School in Handbridge .

The dog must be calm, friendly and comfortable in front of large crowds (many of whom will be picnicking), any breed of medium/large dog is acceptable.

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No acting experience is required, the dog will remain on a leash when on stage and will only appear for a short time in two separate scenes. The most important factor is that there is total commitment from the owner for the entire run of the show.

Alex Clifton, artistic director of Storyhouse, who is directing The Two Gentlemen of Verona, said: “This is a great opportunity for someone to be at the heart of something truly special. As well as being a part of the open air theatre team it’s a chance to gain a real understanding of how a professional theatre works behind the scenes. Plus, we hope, a chance to discover the next Lassie!”

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Applicants must be prepared to commit to every performance during the run of the show, including all matinee and evening performances (there are 17 separate performances between Friday, July 22 to Saturday, August 20).

All expenses will be paid to the successful applicant.

Interested dog owners should email helen@storyhouse.com for an application form. Application deadline is Thursday, May 19.