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Colorado Shakespeare Festival Seeks Canine Actors
The festival is holding auditions for two small dogs to appear in its production of "Shakespeare in Love".
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is searching for two small dogs, ideally under 20 lbs., to play roles in its upcoming production of "Shakespeare in Love." Auditions will be held on March 28, and the selected dogs will be needed for rehearsals from June 2 to June 27, as well as 10 performances from June 27 to August 1. Dog owners whose pets are cast will receive a stipend and complimentary tickets.
Why it matters
The Colorado Shakespeare Festival's search for canine actors highlights the growing trend of incorporating animals into theatrical productions, which can add unique elements of charm and unpredictability. This opportunity also provides a fun way for dog owners to get their pets involved in the arts and potentially earn some perks.
The details
The festival is looking for dogs that can sit, stay, and jump on command, either with or without treats. Rehearsals will generally take place Tuesdays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., but the dogs will only be needed for the scenes where they are required. The selected dogs will appear in 10 performances of "Shakespeare in Love" during the festival's run.
- Auditions will be held on Saturday, March 28, at 3 p.m. at the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre.
- Rehearsals for "Shakespeare in Love" will take place from June 2 through June 27.
- The selected dogs will appear in 10 performances of "Shakespeare in Love" from June 27 to August 1.
The players
Colorado Shakespeare Festival
A renowned theater festival that produces Shakespeare's plays and other classical works in Colorado.
What’s next
Dog owners interested in having their pets audition for the roles should visit cupresents.org for more information.
The takeaway
The Colorado Shakespeare Festival's search for canine actors demonstrates the growing popularity of incorporating animals into theatrical productions, providing a unique opportunity for dog owners to get their pets involved in the arts and potentially earn some perks.
