It’s a better success story than you could find on America’s Next Top Canine Model — a dozen shelter dogs from New York City got a shot at a walk-on role in a December production of ANNIE on Broadway!
The winner was Whiskey, a ten year old caramel colored cocker spaniel who had been living in the shelter for four months. In June, Whiskey and his pup Cocoa were surrendered to the Humane Society of New York because their owners could no longer care for them. The Humane Society’s director hopes that Whiskey’s stage role and the surrounding publicity will help find the dogs a new forever home.
The twelve shelter dogs who auditioned for the bark-on role in ANNIE were asked to pose for cameras and chase a cookie. Whiskey won the directors over when he surprised the young female lead with a big kiss. Twelve-year-old actress Marissa O’Donnell confessed that Whiskey was her favorite at the auditions because of his friendly, calm nature. “He was actually my first choice because he’s not restless and he’s quite friendly and not afraid of people,” she said to a reporter from Reuters.
The show’s dog trainers love Whiskey as much as the cast does! They appreciate Whiskey’s discipline and placid nature, as the theater will be full of people and there will be a ton of kids and adults participating in the performances. One of the trainers on staff describes Whiskey as “poised and confident” — just what they needed.
This is the first time in a decade that ANNIE will be on Broadway. Whiskey will just have a small part in the production; the canine lead is another rescue dog from the Connecticut Humane Society. Lola the dog will play the role of Sandy, Annie’s pet.
If you live in the New York City area and are interested in meeting Whiskey and Cocoa, contact the Humane Society of New York!