Your pooch could become the next Pavarotti or Bocelli of the dog world if they win a place in the spotlight of an opera production.

Ellen Kent's La Bohème is on the hunt for a furry protagonist before coming to The Orchard Theatre, in Dartford.

The spectacle is coming to Kent on April 2, and is looking for a "well behaved, small, used to people and quiet" dog.

Owners will need to be prepared to go on stage in costume to look after their pooch.

Director and producer Ellen Kent likes to innovate her productions by working with both humans and all kinds of animals.

She said: "People say never work with children or animals, but I love to do both. The first time was 20 years ago when my pet cat Holly Go-Lightly was in one of my productions and was an instant hit.

"Since then we’ve had horses, dogs, goldfish and even a golden eagle with a 6ft wingspan on stage.

"Many years ago, when we last did La Bohème and asked local people to volunteer their pets, it was a huge success.

"We even used a rescue dog once and found him dozens of new owners. We’re a nation of animal lovers after all. I’m sure there is plenty of doggie talent out there."

Puccini’s masterpiece, La Bohème, is based on Henri Murger’s novel "Scenes of Bohemian Life".

Set in Paris, it focuses on the tragic love between seamstress Mimi and penniless poet Rodolfo.

The set will reflect the Bohemian art of the period and will include a brass band, snow effects and a full choir and orchestra.

It will be performed in the traditional Italian with English subtitles.

Tickets for La Boheme are available from orchardtheatre.co.uk

To audition your dog and for more information, you can email khadley@orchardtheatre.co.uk.

Candidates must include a photograph of their pup, a contact number and address, as well as the breed, height, weight, age and name of their dog.