Two cast members sure to capture the hearts of audiences at the Mt. Pleasant Junior/Senior High School spring musical are a father-son pair named Gio and Wallie.
What makes them stand out in crew of about 50 actors? They’re Shetland sheepdogs, commonly called Shelties, and they will share the role of Sandy — the canine sidekick of the title character in “Annie.”
Gio, 8, and Wallie, 16 months, are ranked performance dogs that participate in rally, obedience and agility competitions. They also do therapy work. Their owner is Michelle Yackovich, who teaches at the school.
“(Co-director) Rich Bair called me up and said, ‘I got the rights to “Annie.” If I can’t use your dogs, I don’t want to do it,’” Yackovich says.
The dogs have been working since last summer with sixth-grader Kaylie Korpiel, who plays Annie. In addition to remembering lines, lyrics and choreography, Korpiel had to learn hand signals for the dogs.
Because Wallie bonded so well with Korpiel, he will share scenes with her, while Gio handles other scenes.
Also in lead roles are senior Danny Ebeling as Daddy Warbucks, senior Jordan Zelmore as Miss Hannigan, freshman Karen Valencia as Grace and junior Wheeler Whiten as Rooster. Co-director Barb Rolla also served as choreographer.
“I love the show,” Rolla says. “It’s very redeeming and very needed nowadays, with its themes of family and love.”
“Annie” will be presented at 7 p.m. April 4-6 at the high school, 265 State St., Mt. Pleasant Township.
Tickets are $7, $3 for students or $10 for VIP reserved seats.
Details: 724-547-4100 or mpasd.net
