Poppy shares the spotlight
WHILE the young and talented cast of Gadoc’s sell-out production of Annie continues to impress audiences this week at Beau Sejour, it was the four-legged star who seems to have stolen the show.
Poppy, a six-year-old labradoodle, took centre stage alongside Eliza Webster, who plays Annie, in the stunning production of the famous musical set in the depression era of America.
Director Lisa Johnston said Poppy was not a trained stage dog and it took a while for her to respond when called Sandy.
‘She is the most chilled dog ever. We trained her a little to ensure she came when called but she is just so happy all the time, even when the whole cast is singing at the top of their voices around her. She is a dream canine star.’
Poppy’s family, Grant and Tracey Hutchins, and their children D’Arcy, 13, George, 9, and Mabelle, 4, are very proud of their pooch.
‘I am usually in a background role when I am in plays and the first time my dog appears she gets a starring role,’ George said.
Mrs Hutchins, who delivers and collects Poppy to the stage every evening, said she knew Poppy would be fine with the production.
‘She is a very calm dog and has lots of attention at home, so we knew she’d be wonderful. I was terrified I’d forget to bring the dog each night.’
Stardom runs in the family for Poppy. A ‘brother from another litter’ has also made it big, treading the boards playing the same role in the West End.
