PRODUCERS of a musical set in the North-East are seeking a canine recruit to tread the boards when the show is staged next month.

They are to stage a "pup idol" contest to try to find a suitable four-legged candidate to fill the last remaining role in Fine, Fine, Fine!

Written by North-East agony aunt Denise Robertson, it played to packed audiences at the Customs House, in South Shields, South Tyneside, in its first run in 2002.

It is being given a few script changes and will be staged at Durham's Gala Theatre from February 23 to 26.

The musical follows a divorcee's attempts to improve her life through an ultimately doomed romance with a lawyer.

It features Byker Grove actors Sarah Lawton and Daymon Britton, who star as Chrissy and Dom, with the score by brothers Dean and Peter Robertson, who are unrelated to Denise Robertson.

The cast is not quite complete as the search is on for a dog to appear in the show.

Peter said: "No previous acting experience is necessary. We do not particularly need Crufts winners. In fact, the scruffier the dog, the better. It does not have to do a lot, and does not have to be trained to appear on stage as long as it is reasonably passive."

The successful canine candidate will receive an appearance fee.

Auditions will take place at East Boldon Cricket Club, in Sunderland Road, East Boldon, South Tyneside, from about 11am on Friday.

Further information is available on 0191-551 5817.

Published: 31/01/2005