Lovable pooch available for adoption through Nevada SPCA
Cheeto, a rescue dog from the Nevada SPCA, has been chosen to star as Dorothy’s beloved pet, Toto, in the upcoming production of The Wizard of Oz. The one-year-old terrier and Chihuahua mix was hand-selected by leading lady and Green Valley High School graduate, Carly Richardson, after a visit to the animal shelter with Oz director, Dan Decker, in search of the perfect Toto.
“He was the third dog we looked at,” said Richardson. “After looking into my eyes, I knew right away he was the one.”
Cheeto has been rehearsing with the 51-member cast and orchestra for weeks. He’s adapting to his new role as Toto, often stealing the scene with his newfound acting skills. In addition, Cheeto is mastering his improvisation techniques, barking at the Wicked Witch of the West, flying monkeys and evil apple trees or running to Dorothy, played by Richardson, without any direction or persuasion from others.
“He’s the perfect pooch for the part,” said Dan Decker, Director of Oz and the Las Vegas Shakespeare Company. “He’s sweet, calm and very intelligent. He already answers to Toto too!”
Fans will have the chance to see the adorable pup, along with Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion, live, on-stage as the Las Vegas Shakespeare Company present multiple performances of the greatest motion picture, May 13-14 at 8 p.m., May 15 at 4 p.m., May 21 at 8 p.m. and May 22 at 4 p.m., at the Henderson Pavilion, 200 S. Green Valley Parkway. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased at HendersonLive.com.
In addition, Cheeto will be available for adoption after his starring role in The Wizard of Oz at the Nevada SPCA no-kill sanctuary. Anyone interested in Cheeto or any of his dog, cat, rabbit and other pet pals can visit NevadaSPCA.org or call (702) 873-7722.
For more information on The Wizard of Oz, visit HendersonLive.com, call (702) 267-4TIX (4849) or visit the Henderson Pavilion Box Office, Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter at HendersonLive.
The City of Henderson supports the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Advanced notice may be necessary to ensure that appropriate accommodations will be provided. For full telephone, use Relay Nevada by dialing 7-1-1.
About the City of Henderson Department of Cultural Arts & Tourism
The City of Henderson Department of Cultural Arts and Tourism is dedicated to creating and promoting innovative events, entertainment, programming and venues that celebrate diverse cultural arts, enhance tourism, involve and serve the community and enrich the economic and cultural fabric of Henderson.
The Henderson Pavilion, Henderson Convention Center and Henderson Events Plaza are all managed by the Department of Cultural Arts and Tourism.
For additional information on our programs and entertainment, please contact us directly at (702) 267-2171. Our office hours are Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
About the Las Vegas Shakespeare Company
The Las Vegas Shakespeare Company is the Vegas Valley’s home town Shakespeare theatre, a resident, professional repertory company that presents classic and contemporary live entertainment. With its broad knowledge and expertise, LVSC applies modern storytelling techniques to Shakespeare to create contemporary visions of the classic plays – while at the same time honoring the original texts. LVSC also mounts large-scale musicals to round out its yearly offerings. LVSC works with the Clark County Schools to offer educational outreach year round.