A TWO-YEAR-OLD pooch has been stealing the show at the Theatre Royal's half-term show.

Buddy, who is a cross between a Jack Russell, chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier, has made his panto debut in Wizard of Oz as Dorothy’s best pal Toto and has been grabbing the limelight proving a favourite with audiences and critics.

Owner and trainer, Jema Leopold, said: “Buddy is super excited to be playing the part of Toto at St Helens Theatre Royal.

“He has performed at outdoor shows but this is his first time performing on stage. Buddy is a bundle of trouble and everyone always falls in love with him.

“He has recently started learning agility and has really taken to it and he knows a few tricks too!”

The show opened last Saturday and runs until this Sunday, October 30.

Headlining the cast is former Eastenders actress Cheryl Fergison who is hilarious as The Wicked Witch of the West.

Cheryl is joined on stage by Charlotte Gallagher who plays Dorothy, Phillip MCGuiness as the Tinman, Simon Foster as the Lion, Liam Mellor as the scatty Scarecrow and Radio City 2 – 105.9FM’s Claire Simmo as Glinda the Good Witch.

Chantelle Nolan, Theatre Royal manager added: “We are delighted with the response to our half term panto so far – the audience have loved it and have really been getting into the spirit of things, booing and hissing and joining in all the songs.

"And Buddy has been so well behaved – everyone has fallen in love with him!

“There’s still a few tickets left so treat your little munchkins this half term and bring them to see Wizard of Oz for a magical family afternoon of fun entertainment!”

For more visit: sthelenstheatreroyal.com