It’s a role with few – if any – lines but it’s likely to steal the show.

One of two summer productions by The Changeling Theatre this year will be The Two Gentlemen of Verona, which was famously described by Queen Elizabeth I as “the one with the dog.”

And directors are on the lookout for a four-legged cast member for the part of Crabb.

A talented canine is being sought by the Maidstone-based company to complete their cast for the production – one of Shakespeare’s early works.

Requirements for the role are simple: To be well behaved and to be a dog.

Director Rob Forknall, who is in charge of his 15th open air production, said: “Ideally it would be a lurcher, as it was originally. But it can be anything – it could be a labradoodle.

“It needs to be well behaved and not worried about being on stage. We would need the owner to come on tour with us.”

He added: “He is partnered up with a clown called Launce and is likely to steal the show. The dog will be required to work closely with the actors and be well trained and obedient.”

The production is one of two being put on by the company. The other is Noel Coward’s Hay Fever, chosen after a vote by the audience last year.

There will be 25 performances of The Two Gentlemen of Verona and 15 of Hay Fever taking place across Kent, from picturesque Boughton Monchelsea Place on Friday, July 3 to the beach in Margate, until Sunday, August 16.

If you would like your dog to be considered for the show the Changeling will be holding auditions soon.

For details email Admin@changeling-theatre.com
For venue and ticket details see www.changeling-theatre.com