'Pupstars' bark for Chitty stardom

~ BBC ~

Show directors are looking for 10 dog stars

Judges have been searching for canine talent to reach the dizzy heights of pup-stardom on the London stage.

Dozens of owners paraded their pets on Wednesday to try to get them a role in a West End production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Producers of the show were seeking 10 dogs to star in the first stage adaptation of the classic story, written by James Bond author Ian Fleming.

They were also looking for understudies who can bone up on the role to fill in during any absences.

Although the original movie featured the dogs in just the sweet factory scene, show bosses have extended the role to allow the four-legged stars to get their teeth into more.

The show is to be given its world premiere at the London Palladium on 16 April and stars Michael Ball as Caractacus Potts.

Brian Blessed will star as The Baron with Anton Rodgers as Grandpa Potts.