One minute, you’re confronting the eternal slumber list, and the next, you’re basking in the limelight.
That’s how Max, the rescued senior, could encapsulate his existence.
Confronting his dreadful fate, Max never imagined he would be saved, much less rise to fame in his local theatre.
But fortunes shift when you least anticipate it.
Not only was Max saved, but he was also granted a life he had only fantasized about.
And here’s the story of how his aspirations came to fruition…
A Yorkie Jack Russell With Great Aspirations
Just a few days separated Max from the eternal slumber chamber. He believed his time on this planet had concluded, and to be honest, there weren’t many memorable moments.
The Yorkie Jack Russell mix was 12 years old at the point of his rescue. Max spent far too long at the shelter, being overlooked by potential adopters and pondering if his moment would ever arrive. He could never have imagined that someone like Lauren and Foster would take him in.
Max was welcomed by the young couple after Foster’s father and stepmother adopted him from the Colorado shelter where he resided.
Max turned out to be quite a handful for Foster’s stepmom, who had previously owned Shih Tzus. Max’s large dog enthusiasm simply didn’t align with them, so he transitioned to living with Lauren and Foster and moved to Virginia.
Life became delightful, and Max found himself with individuals who comprehended him best.
But this was only the beginning of something amazing. Max had no clue what exciting opportunities were ahead.
During one walk, while casually roaming the streets with Lauren, Max caught the attention of theatre personnel, talent scout, and producing artistic director Katy Brown. Katy is affiliated with Barter Theatre in Abingdon, and she envisioned Max as her next star!
The Barter Theatre has been operating for over 90 years and continues to adapt the beloved The Wizard of the Oz. Max was the perfect likeness of Toto, and Katy felt compelled to cast him in the role.
Max’s life shifted once more, introducing him to the brilliant lights of the theatre and laying the pathway to triumph.
Is He Max, Or Is He Toto?
The theatre team adored Max immensely. The small rescued senior of 12 years captivated their hearts. Max was so eager to please, performing various tricks, some even upon request.
It was evident to all that this chance encounter led them to their perfect Toto.
There was nothing left to do but prepare Max for the part and commence acting. As planned, the theatre will stage and present 56 performances featuring Max as Toto.
Days were about to become hectic for Max. Fortunately, he didn’t mind, and the secret to his effective adaptation was… treats!
“He’s a people-pleaser and the treats definitely help,” Smith stated for Newsweek. “It’s amusing because I’ve attended a few shows, and he’ll gaze out into the audience and assess it,” Smith continued. “It doesn’t intimidate him, and he enjoys the company of the other performers on stage with him.”
The reviews for the new The Wizard of the Oz are outstanding. Attendees from all corners are coming to witness the fresh cast and Max as the flawless canine star. They universally agree on one aspect: Max was destined to shine!
Even though discovered late in his senior years, Max still has an illustrious future ahead of him.
Next destination? Hollywood!