IS YOUR pet pooch a star in the making?

Has he – or she – got that extra magic something, that Rex Factor?

If so, bring your hound along to Weymouth Pavilion this Sunday and let them audition of the role of Toto in this year’s panto, The Wizard of Oz.

As anyone familiar with the film starring Judy Garland will be aware, Toto is a small, loyal dog who follows his mistress on her huge adventure to a strange, alien land.

Pavilion Theatre spokesman Nicky Jenkins said: “Ideally, what we are looking for is a scruffy little dog that Dorothy can tuck under her arm or pop in her basket as she skips through the poppy fields on her way to Oz.

“We don’t want anything too big, so sadly Great Danes need not apply, and not too small either. Ideally the dog should be slightly bigger than a Yorkie.”

She added: “Any prospective dogs should also be good with children, come when called, not be of a nervous disposition and if they can walk on their hind legs or do tricks, then so much the better!”

This year’s panto runs at the Pavilion from December 17 to January 3, and boasts former EastEnders and Office star Joel Beckett, Pavilion favourite and West End star Andy Pelos and Chelsie Padley from The Tracey Beaker Show in its cast. Newcomer Michelle Whitney is Dorothy.

Joel, who recently returned from working in LA where he is producing a film, said: “It is my first panto and I’m really looking forward to it.

“On top of that, I haven’t been to Weymouth before so I think it will be a great experience – I’ve heard it’s a great town to be in on New Year’s Eve!”

Dorothy is the first major panto role played by Michelle, whereas Chelsie has played the good witch for the past three years.

“It’s a role I love,” she said. “Christmas is a such a happy family time so there is a good atmosphere and great audiences. It’s fabulous.”

The production is being directed by Spillers Pantomomes regular Bev Berridge, who said: “It is a great show to do because it is popular and fun.

n Auditions for the role of Toto will take place on Sunday, October 11 at 11am in the Pavilion Theatre. Owners should be aware that if their dog is chosen, they will need to chaperone it for two shows a day throughout the panto run. For further details, call Nicky on 01305 838566.