Does your pet dog have what it takes to be an opera star?

by | Jan 25, 2017 | Dartford Entertainment

PUCCINI LA BOHEME
Has your dog got star quality?

If your pet pooch is the canine equivalent of Brad Pitt or Scarlett Johansson, then they could win a place in the spotlight in the beautiful and romantic opera La Boheme, coming to The Orchard Theatre on Sunday 19 February.

Award-winning opera director and producer Ellen Kent said: “People say never work with children or animals but I love to do both. The first time was 20 years ago when my pet cat Holly Go-Lightly was in one of my productions and was an instant hit. Since then we’ve had horses, dogs, goldfish and even a golden eagle with a 6ft wingspan on stage.

“Many years ago when we last did La Boheme and asked local people to volunteer their pets it was a huge success. We even used a rescue dog once and found him dozens of new owners!

“We’re a nation of animal lovers after all. I’m sure there is plenty of doggie talent out there.”

Your pet needs to be well behaved and small – and as his owner, you will need to be prepared to go on stage in costume to look after him or her.
Ellen Kent brings one of the most romantic operas ever written to the stage in her new tour, traditionally staged featuring beautiful sets and costumes. The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period and will include a brass band, snow effects and Musetta’s dog will also make an entrance.

[gdlr_icon type=”icon-adjust” color=”#353535″ size=”15px” ]Ring the theatre for information on how to put your dog forward for his starring role, on 01322 220000.

“Ellen Kent always includes extra touches and here we had a colourful carnival scene with street entertainers, a local brass, snow effects and a dog (very well behaved on the night).” – Bristol Post, 2013

Puccini’s masterpiece, La Boheme, is based on Henri Murger’s novel Scenes de la vie de boheme. Set in Paris, it focuses on the love between seamstress Mimi and poet Rodolfo.

This classic tale of Parisian love and loss features many famous arias including ‘Your Tiny Hand is Frozen’, ‘They Call Me Mimi’ and ‘Musetta’s Waltz’.

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

* Cast subject to change.

“Authentic, tender and passionate” – Daily Telegraph

Alyona Kistenyova had a beautiful pure strong voice – allied to a real emotional intensity, it shone to perfection in Vissi d’arte. (Tosca)” The Argus, Brighton 2016

“The opera tugged me along and conducted my inner strings with accomplished magic.” – Southend Echo, 2014

 

Bluewater to change name to Zoowater as Disney celebrates Zootropolis 2

For the first time ever, Bluewater is rebranding and will be known as Zoowater in a landmark collaboration with The Walt Disney Company to celebrate the upcoming release of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootropolis 2. The centre’s iconic logo, which features a...

Christmas colouring competition winner ready to help light up Dartford for Christmas

Dartford’s Big Christmas Switch On is set to dazzle the town on Saturday 15th November, following the selection of this year’s Christmas Colouring Competition winner. After reviewing a host of wonderful entries from primary schools across Dartford, Maya, aged 8, was...

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt: ellenor Hospice Launches Dartford Art Trail with Ana Zoob’s Hero Bear

For Sussex-born artist Ana Zoob, lockdown was the turning point that pushed her from printmaking into painting. Now, just five years later, her latest commission – the Hero Bear, named Blum – will take pride of place in ellenor’s Wild in Art Trail, a large-scale...

Kent councils reveal draft business cases for new unitary councils

Earlier today, councils from across Kent and Medway published a series of draft business cases to help inform the next steps in the government’s biggest shake up of local councils in 50 years. These business cases, compiled with the help of experienced advisors KPMG,...

THREE MONTHS TO GO: Major railway upgrades at Dartford will affect travel for passengers over the February half term next year

Rail passengers are being asked to plan ahead of a major upgrade at Dartford Junction. With just over three months to go, rail passengers in south east London and Kent are being reminded to plan ahead as the line is closing for essential track repairs in Dartford...

Local school receives large investment from Dartford Borough Council

Dartford Borough Council has approved an investment of £4.5 million from its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) fund to support the expansion of Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy in response to rising pupil demand and population growth in the borough. The funding will help...

DARTFORD FC WOMEN | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET PARIS SMITH

Last Saturday saw Dartford take on Welling United at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Chris Palmer spoke to versatile attacker Paris Smith, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: If you cast your minds...

DARTFORD FC | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET JOE TENNENT

Last Saturday saw Dartford take on Welling United at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Chris Palmer spoke to defender Joe Tennent, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: Joe Tennent arrived at the...

The Ice Rink and Winterland to return to Bluewater this Christmas

Bluewater has announced that its Christmas activities, the Ice Rink and Winterland, are set to return for Christmas 2025.  The Ice Rink will return from Friday 7th November until Sunday 4th January 2025, whereas Winterland will be open from Saturday...

Rail regulator decision paves the way for return of international services to Ebbsfleet and Ashford

Dartford Borough Council remains committed to bringing international rail services to Kent, following today’s announcement from the Office of Rail and Road. A report released today by the rail regulator stops short of offering direct support to reopen services via...