New opera stars could be under the spotlight at Blackpool's Grand Theatre later this year - but they'll have to be barking to get involved!

Four-legged thespians are wanted for two separate productions scheduled for the Grand in the coming months, and local dog owners are being asked to volunteer their pooches for a place treading the boards.

Blackpool Operatic Players have been hounding local dog owners in a desperate hunt for two Pekinese to take 'lead' roles in their forthcoming production of Titanic -- The Musical, but so far the society has had no luck in collaring suitable dog stars.

Karen Gray, the society's publicity officer, said: "One of the leading ladies has to walk on stage with the dogs and another character actually refers to them in a song as being Pekinese, so there's no way of substituting them for a more popular breed -- otherwise we'd be using my sister's two Staffies."

Anyone with Pekinese dogs can get in touch with either company chairman, Andrew Taylor, on 01253 699508 or secretary, Marian Chesters, on 01253 700912.

The show opens on Wednesday, May 3 for five performances, and canine players will need to attend some of the rehearsals.

Coincidentally, a dog star is also being sought for a production of La Boheme on March 12.

Producer Ellen Kent and Opera International are bringing Puccini's romantic opera to town and need a small dog to appear on stage for around five minutes, along with its owner.

If you think your pet could star send a photograph to Liz White, Ellen Kent & Opera International, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, Kent, Me4 4TZ for consideration. Closing date is March 3. Please include your contact number and address as well as the breed, height, weight, age and name of your dog.

The lucky owner will be informed around a week in advance.

Tickets are now on sale for both shows, from Blackpool Grand Theatre box office on 01253 290190.