Dog Days of Starlight

Two adorable pups will be featured on the Starlight stage in Legally Blonde The Musical July 7-13. Get tickets online or call our ticketing services team at (816) 363-7827. 

Starlight held “dog-ditions” earlier this year to find just the right dogs for the roles of Bruiser Woods, trusty sidekick to human Elle Woods, and Rufus, furry companion to Paulette. The competition was fierce, but in the end, Marley and Arty were chosen! 

“Not only did we find a fantastic dog to play Bruiser, but we were able to connect to Michon and Arty through the Kansas City English Bulldog Rescue,” Caroline Gibel, Starlight’s Director of Programming, said. “We had so much fun through the audition process and love how involved Kansas City pet parents got in the Search for Bruiser. I can’t wait to welcome these adorable pups to the stage—they may just steal the show!” 

Meet the (Dog) Stars

Bruiser will be played by Marley, a chihuahua mix who lives in Overland Park, KS. Marley began her journey as a rescue pup in Manhattan, KS. She is well-travelled and has been from coast to coast in the US.

Marley works by day as a law clerk for her mom, who also went to law school. This cuddly pup leaves a paw print on the heart of everyone she meets.  

Rufus is being played by an English Bulldog named Arty. Arty was surrendered to Kansas City English Bulldog Rescue (KCEBR) in July of 2022. He is easy-going and enjoys meeting people, other animals, and cuddling.

Arty lives on a small farm in Kansas City with 5 other English bulldogs (KCEBR rescues), 3 cats, 7 horses, 2 tortoises, several chickens and a potbellied pig. As a KCEBR alumni, Arty participates in rescue events and is an excellent rescue ambassador.  

About KCEBR

Created in 2014, Kansas City English Bulldog Rescue (KCEBR) has the mission of rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs in need.

With a specialization in rescuing brachycephalic (or flat face) breeds, KCEBR accomplishes their vision through fundraising with almost 100% of funds going back to the dogs in foster homes. KCEBR is a 501c3 nonprofit staffed entirely by volunteers. Find out more at https://www.kcbulldogrescue.org/

During the show, KCEBR will be selling a shirt featuring Arty!

Shirts are $30 and available in pink or blue. You can use Venmo (@kcenglishbulldogrescue) or PayPal (kcbulldogrescue@hotmail.com). Please include your name, mailing address, color preference, and size.