Holloway dog duo lands leading roles in new West End theatre show
Dog theatre production - Credit: Robert Stuhldreer
Noel Gallagher and Lilly Allen have been among the audience so far
Two canine TV stars have made their West End debut in a new “immersive theatre” production in Charing Cross.
Three-year-old Akita Flora and 15-month-old Japanese Akita Kin, who live with 54-year-old professional dog trainer Robert Stuhldreer on Dunford Road, Holloway, have been performing in the show since September 10.
The barely publicised production, which is being held at an unnamed location on Charing Cross Road, is set in a series of rooms which the “passengers” or audience – pass through. Along the way, they are invited to take part in various scenes, including one involving Flora and Kin.
Mr Stuhldreer said: “Some play the scene very straight, whilst others think outside the box offering some unique suggestions which can be very amusing.”
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“The reactions range from those of dog-lovers who don’t want to move on to the next scene, to others who are still shell-shocked from the previous scenes.”
The dogs’ performance, he says, has been “paw-perfect” throughout.
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“We’ve had great fun rehearsing - and the girls, who are fantastic ambassadors for their respective breeds, have taken it all in their stride.”
The show has already attracted some high-profile visitors, including the singers Noel Gallagher, Lilly Allen and Boy George.
“When Noel Gallagher came into the room,” says the dog trainer, “we suggested that he sing – and he suggested: How much is that doggy in the window.”
Tickets quickly sold out for the show, which has now been extended until the end of the year.
The dogs are no stranger to stardom. Last year, Flora filmed with stars Michael Fassbender and Brendan Gleeson in the blockbuster Trespass against Us.
The pair have also appeared in Channel 4’s Super Vet with Noel Fitzpatrick and on BBC’s Spring Watch with the zoologist Chris Packham.
In the past 15 years, they have regularly participated in other public events, including Discover Dogs, the London Pet Show and the National Pet Show for the past 15 years.
So, does Mr Stuhldreer see them going to Hollywood?
“Never say never.”
