THE producers of a comedy play being staged at a North-East theatre this summer have launched a canine competition in the hope of finding a top dog.

Mischief Theatre is looking for pooches to play a walk on – or carry on – role in The Play That Goes Wrong, which will be on at Darlington Civic Theatre in June.

The first audition for hopeful hounds was held at the Fairy Dogmother grooming salon, in McMullen Road, Darlington, on Thursday (April 10) afternoon.

The play charts the antics of a student drama group whose efforts to stage a murder mystery play go awry.

A spokeswoman for the show said: “All dogs will be considered so long as they are not afraid of loud noises – no special skills required.

“The lucky owners will receive a pair of complimentary tickets to see the show on their dog’s night off and a complimentary family ticket for one of their dog’s performances.

“Owners must be prepared to accompany their prize pet backstage in the theatre.”

Anyone who thinks their dog has what it takes to tread the boards, should send an email with Darlington Pup Idol in the subject line, along with a photo as an attachment, to kezia@kennywax.com

Anne Watson, of the grooming salon will award each of the three winners a voucher to be used towards her services.

The winners will be chosen via a Facebook public vote.

Ticket prices for the show, which runs from June 17 to 21, start from £16.

To book, call 01325-486555 or visit darlingtoncivic.co.uk