'Sylvia'

"Sylvia" tells the story of how pets can make a difference in our lives and the importance of second chances.

The Dakota Organization's production of A.R. Gurney's play, "Sylvia," directed by Rod Hearn, continues tonight, Saturday and Sunday at the CVIC Hall in Minden.

Sylvia the dog is given another chance at life after being picked up as a stray. The addition of the Lab/poodle mix makes a pair of recent empty-nesters re-examine their lives.

Greg, played by Dave Anderson, is disillusioned with his job as a financial trader but feels purpose as part of a larger pack after bringing Sylvia home from the park.

Greg's wife Kate, played by Lucille Rao, doesn't want a dog and feels Sylvia is a threat to her relationship with her husband.

"I like dogs when they belong to someone else," Kate said.

If she had a real tail, Elizabeth Brissenden, who plays Sylvia, would be wagging it.

"My aim in life is to please," Sylvia said.

Sylvia/Brissenden shows the enthusiasm of the perpetual teenager/dog as she sniffs the air, pants, scratches, rolls over and jumps on the couch.

Brissenden demonstrates Sylvia's gratitude for being saved from the streets or the dog pound with adoring looks. She "vogues" after her French poodle treatment at the groomers, is the petulant little girl/dog reluctantly doing tricks and acts the tart to get the attention of Bowzer in the dog park.

"Sylvia" shows that a visit to the animal shelter could result in second chances for a pet or for their potential owners. Brissenden's portrayal of Sylvia makes one consider adopting either a dog or a teenager.

Taking a bow with the actors at the end of "Sylvia" was a rescued golden retriever. His white muzzle showed he was no longer a youngster, but the perpetual teenager would probably come out with the appearance of a ball.

The Dakota Organization has teamed with the Douglas Animal Welfare Group to raise funds to help DAWG improve the adoptability of animals at the Douglas County Animal Shelter. A portion of the ticket sales for "Sylvia" will be donated to DAWG. For more information, go to www.dawgrescue.com or call 267-7325.