Calling all dog owners! Stage Right Trust is on the lookout for two star-studded pups to join the cast of Legally Blonde The Musical, set to hit the stage at Baycourt from July 26 to August 2, 2025.

Director Toni Henderson said they were seeking canine talent to play two key roles: Bruiser Woods and Rufus.

“Bruiser is Elle Woods’ iconic little ‘handbag’ dog – small, well-trained, and ideally able to follow commands,” Henderson said. “It would be a bonus if the dog can ‘speak’ on command, but that’s not essential. Most importantly, Bruiser must be comfortable being picked up and carried.”

Rufus, the second canine character, is the beloved bulldog of Paulette Buonufonte, the quirky beautician Elle befriends. Henderson described Rufus as “a bulldog or similarly sized dog with a gentle nature, good on a lead, and happy to be lifted when needed”.

Interested dog owners are invited to submit an expression of interest via email to: stagerighttrust@gmail.com. Submissions should include a brief description of the dog, any tricks they can perform, and a recent photo.

“Once we have a shortlist from the email submissions, we will hold auditions with the dogs alongside their human cast members – Bruiser with Morgan Kitching, who is playing Elle Woods, and Rufus with Melissa Nicholson, who is playing Paulette Buonufonte.”

Cast of Legally Blonde The Musical. Photo/ Matt Henderson.

Henderson said the dogs would be required to attend specific rehearsals in the lead-up to the show, on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday.

“Plus, possibly every evening the week prior to the show opening and all performances at Baycourt.”

Legally Blonde The Musical is a fast-paced, feel-good production packed with humour, heart, and high-energy numbers. Based on the beloved film, it follows the journey of Elle Woods as she defies expectations, and tackles stereotypes and scandals in pursuit of her dream to go to Harvard Law School.

The Baycourt season will include eight performances, with evening shows on July 26, 29, 30, 31, August 1, and 2, and matinees on July 27 and August 2.

In support of a local breast cancer awareness initiative, the production is keeping ticket prices accessible to encourage community donations. If your pup has star quality and loves the spotlight, this could be their big break!