A Look at APT's Furriest Performer: Tim the Dog

On the boards of American Players Theatre this summer is a special performer. He's furry, offers no dialogue, and walks on four legs. Meet Tim, an eleven-year-old German shepherd playing Crab in this season's The Two Gentlemen of Verona.

Tim is owned and trained by Steve and Connie Miller, and resides at the Spring Green Pet Resort. However, APT spoke with stage manager Becca Lindsey to get more information about this scene-stealing, adorable dog.

Steve Miller, Tim, and Steve Haggard, who plays Launce in the play's dynamic duo, began working together on day one of rehearsal. During their first session (or as Becca described it, 'a blind date'), Steve H. and Tim spent time walking around the property, playing with the ball and simply hanging out. These bonding sessions continued for three weeks, interspersed with occasional training for scene work.

When it came time to prepare for the first performance, Steve and Tim had sessions at the kennel, sometimes accompanied by actors Eric Parks and Will Mobley who interact with the dog in the play too. Additionally, some sessions were held on property with director Tim Ocel.

During the performances, there is additional stage management to look after Tim, but Steve prefers to watch over him and guide the dog to his places backstage. Aside from when Steve takes ten-minute breaks, he is always spending time with Tim.

At APT, Tim is fed a plethora of treats, all provided by the Millers. However, Tim does not have dinner before the show, so as to avoid him thinking it's bedtime at show time.

When not performing, stage management has set up a veranda for Tim. With it comes a cooling mat, Tim's favorite ball, and water dishes. While he relaxes there occasionally, during intermission most specifically, Tim spends most of his time backstage at Steve's side, walking around the paths, through APT's woods.

As the season continues, Tim still provides many 'aww' moments and chuckles for APT's audiences. According to Becca, he is a joy to work with and the relationship between Steve and Tim as seen in the performance is as equally incredibly special offstage:

'Tim's been a delight to deal with, mainly because he and Steve Haggard are so bonded to one another that they really do take care of each other.'

Way to go Tim!