Dancing dogs: Orlando Ballet auditions pups for role in ‘The Great Gatsby’

ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s a ruff role, but some puppy’s got to do it.

The Orlando Ballet held “in-puppy” auditions on Friday morning to fill the role of Fido in upcoming performances of “The Great Gatsby.”

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The six finalists competed on a concrete catwalk outside Harriett’s Orlando Ballet Centre, taking turns being held by ballet dancers.

The ballet said it is looking for a pup weighing no more than 10 pounds, that’s comfortable with noise and being carried around on stage.

READ: Sit, stay, ballet: Orlando Ballet auditioning pups for role in ‘The Great Gatsby’

Dash, 13, came out as top dog winning the part to make his late-in-life ballet debut. “It’s never too late,” his owner Samantha Garner, a Gatsby super fan, said.

Dash sported his best bowtie for the occasion, taking his turn being carried in a basket and then again in a dancer’s arms.

“No one jumped out of the basket, so that’s good,” Garner said with a laugh.

Photos: Orlando Ballet auditions pint-sized pups for role in ‘The Great Gatsby’

Garner said Dash is ready to put his best paw forward.

“Dash is so honored to be part of this ornate production and will, without a doubt, assume the entire audience is only there to see him,” she said.

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Orlando Ballet dog auditions The Orlando Ballet held “in-puppy” auditions on Friday morning to fill the role of Fido in upcoming performances of “The Great Gatsby.” (Sarah Wilson)

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Banks, a 2.5-year-old Cavachon, will serve as Dash’s understudy, assuming the role of Fido in the Saturday matinee on April 30.

Ballet officials said the families of the winning pooches will receive free tickets to the performance.

“The Great Gatsby” will play at the Walt Disney Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts between April 28 to May 1.

READ: Orlando Ballet leads the way in diversity on stage

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