Paul Schuler plays Dog in the upcoming Waihi Drama Society production of Footrot Flats and has been studying farm dogs in preparation for his role.
"I've been watching how they stand, how they sit, and how they move", says Schuler. He has also been an invaluable source of information for the
other "animals" in the show. "It's the little things that make a big difference", says the show's musical director and Ewe Number Two, Helen Gudsell, "such as telling you that sheep jump when they go through narrow spaces".
Director Tina Barlow says Schuler has the most physical role in the show. "We're trying to track down some knee-pads for him at the moment. He runs, he leaps, he falls."
Schuler shrugs the bruises off, though. "I'm a farmer, I'm used to it."
"It's such a great show," says Tina, "it's funny, heart-warming, and the costumes are great."
Footrot Flats is written by Roger Hall with lyrics by A.K Grant and music by Philip Norman. It opens at the Boyd Road theatre on July 30 with a special gala performance. Tickets are available from United Video Waihi, phone (07) 863 9245.
