FeedsTV producers seeking ‘Stupid Pet Tricks’ for show
As scouts for The Late Show with David Letterman descend on Westland, those offbeat skills Fido learned could finally pay off.
The Michigan Humane Society will host auditions for the Stupid Pet Tricks segment of The Late Show with David Letterman from 1-4 p.m. Aug. 20.
“The segment is terrifically entertaining and fun, but most importantly, it celebrates the immeasurable value of the human and animal bond,” said Michael Robbins, director of marketing and communications for the Michigan Humane Society.
From hamsters to horses, pets of every kind are welcome to show off their talents in the hopes of impressing the producers of the show. Each stunt must be safe, humane, and appropriate for both the animals and humans involved in order to be considered for use in the program. Beyond that, however, anything goes.
“There will be a talent producer and a film crew taping every act,” said Robbins.
In the weeks following the audition, the producers of the show will review the tapes from the talent search in Westland as well as from similar events from other areas of the country. The acts they deem the best will be invited to New York for an appearance on the Late Show.
“The uniqueness of the trick is what will win the day,” he said.Although it is too soon to tell just how many auditions will be offered, Robbins said that the open calls in other areas attracted 30-40 performers on average. In some communities, however, 100 pets performed. He added that although the registration process just began, the humane society has already received a number of registrations, including one for a gifted pony.
This is the only Stupid Pet Tricks audition scheduled in the Midwest through the end of the year. Animals from throughout Michigan and possibly from neighboring states are expected to participate.
Robbins urged anyone with a talented pet to try out.
“It’s fun—and how many opportunities are there for people to get a chance at national recognition?” he said.
Spectators are welcome to watch the talented animals perform, but audience members should leave their pets at home.
The Michigan Humane Society has been working with Late Show representatives for months on the audition. Organizers elected to host the event at the Westland shelter because it is both the most state-of-the-art facility in the area and the facility that could best accommodate the logistical needs of the audition.
The Berman Center for Animal Care is located at 900 North Newburgh Road in Westland. Pre-registration is expected for the audition. For more information or to register, call the Michigan Humane Society at (866) 648-6263 or visit www.michiganhumane.org.
