THE search for a canine with star quality to play a leading role in WOW's forthcoming production is over - but the search for an English bulldog continues.

Rehearsals are well under way for Legally Blonde, which will be performed at Weymouth Pavilion from November 16 to 19.

Although Jasper the chihuahua has been chosen to play the role of Bruiser the dog, a local English bulldog hasn't been found and WOW Youth Musical Theatre is renewing its appeal to find a bulldog to play the role of Paulette's dog.

However, the musical's human stars have all been decided in this tale of a plucky young legal eagle who gets into Harvard in a bid to win back her boyfriend and prove her intelligence.

Wey Valley School headgirl Maggie Ayles is taking on the starring role of Elle Woods while Luke Southorn has recovered from a serious injury to star as love interest Emmett.

Paulette will be played by Molly Thorne while Alex Rogan stars as Warner Huntingdon III. Georgina Mason plays Vivienne and Jamie Dovell is Prof Callahan.

Taking on the role of Brooke Wyndham is Lucy Bone, while Anneka Dawkins is Enid and Harrison Burley is Kyle.

In addition to the main cast is a a further 40 character parts for the group to play.

WOW president Janet Stockley says the show is 'feelgood with lots of dancing and comedy'.

She said: "The show involves several costume changes and the costume team, headed by Mandie Parfitt, have been busy for several months collating the extensive wardrobe.

"The enormous set will arrive in a huge trunker van and WOW stage manager Stella New, has had to get together an army of backstage crew to initially install the set and then manage the very quick scene changes.

"All this takes place two days before opening night and is carried out by volunteer parents and friends with a lot of support from the Pavilion professional technicians."

The show is directed and choreographed by Martine Burt, the lighting engineer is Dave Tozier and Heather Reed is the musical director.

n Book tickets for Legally Blonde by contacting the Weymouth Pavilion box office.

n Anyone has an English bulldog that might be suitable for the show should contact Janet Stockley on 01305 784945 or email janetwow@talktalk.net

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830973

e: joanna.davis

@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoJo