There’s one thing missing from “It’s a Wonderful Life” – Me!

Juno is a celebrated blogger with an international following. She blogs on dogs (obviously), community, social justice, music, and politics. She lives with the MaPaw and PaPaw in Summerland. Now four years old, she is proud of her Labradoodle heritage and connections.

Yes, I know, everyone in Summerland is looking forward to the Singers and Players production of the classic holiday show, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” And this performance will be staged as a radio play, complete with actors in multiple roles, live sound effects and incidental music provided by PaPaw. Tickets are still available here or if you come early enough, at the door at Summerland United Church.

Opening night is this coming Friday, Dec 1, followed by performances on Dec 2,3, 8, 9, and 10. Remember the doodle law: “Don’t do tomorrow what can be done today—buy your tickets now.

I have one serious complaint however.

The script contains no role for dogs, and more specifically, none for me. In fact, I won’t even be able to see the show. This is deplorable. In a town that continues to struggle with the full inclusion of dogs in public spaces and community events, this would have been a golden opportunity, a way to shepherd the needs and wants of the vulnerable, a time to bring a terrier to a world traumatized by terrorism. The rich and affectionate community of the dog park could have enriched this famous story, first penned by Charles Dickens, subsequently re-invented by Frank Capra, of the 1946 Christmas classic: “A Christmas Carol” that morphs into “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

You may ask, what could a dog contribute to this epic drama? Good question.

SPOILER ALERT Imagine for instance how I could have influenced and enriched the story. Had I been there when George’s brother, Harry, fell through the ice, I could have tugged him to safety and George’s ear would remain healthy. I would have barked at Mr. Gower before he made his pharmaceutical mistake. What if I had been present at the bridge when George considered suicide? I could have talked him down and cuddled with him for hours. I would have dragged George out of Martini’s bar. What if I joined the board of directors from the Savings and Loan? I could have given them something to smile about as they tried to deal with the vicious, and dog-unfriendly banker Potter. MaPaw and I could appear as a pet-therapy team.

Mary and George could have commenced walking out (as it was then called) much earlier if they had me to walk. I could have added percussive backs to the jingles.

And most importantly, what is a decorated Christmas Tree without a dog playing with the glittering bangles.

I think proceeding with the performance as advertised, without canine inclusion, is a big mistake. Like Summerland Council, I think Singers and Players directors should reconsider their decision. Once again, dogs are shoved to the sidelines in our little town—disrespected, ignored, unwelcomed. If you think I am alone, here are some other canine comments.

“It’s a shame really, another great opportunity missed”
Nik

“I am disappointed, even disgusted that once again we are ignored in important moments”
Agnes

“Juno has such talent, once again wasted”
Juno’s MaPaw

“I think Juno is narcissus in extremis”
Anonymous
(Everyone’s a critic.)

Well I hope the production is a (limited) success. PaPaw has spoken with Singers and Players officials about future plans. Hey, they often produce murder-mysteries and train robberies—with HORSES I note. So how about Border Collies, German Short-Haired Pointers, and Zimbabwean Ridgebacks.

Come on folks, get with the times. Gather the dogs: “Get Lassie,” but for now, enjoy the show.