TORONTO - They sat, they rolled, begged and jumped _ all for a shot at stardom.
A casting call for a new CBC reality show saw dozens of dogs take the stage in Toronto this afternoon, showing off their best tricks in search of their big break.
The pups are vying for the role of Toto in Andrew Lloyd Webber's new production of "The Wizard of Oz," which is set to open in Toronto this winter.
The top 10 contenders will first compete in a reality series called "Over The Rainbow," which will also help fill the role of Dorothy.
Terriers and shepherds and bulldogs strutted in front the cameras at Saturday's audition, held during the Woofstock dog festival.
The judges, which include comedians Colin Mochrie and Deb McGrath, say they're looking for a dog with "personality" _ and one who won't soil the stage.
"Let's face it, if you see an animal, if they've got personality and charm, you don't need to be an expert to see that," McGrath says.
But she admits it may be difficult to critique such cute contestants.
"Believe me, I'm going to want every dog to win," she says.
Daryn Jones will host the show scheduled to air in September.
