In Reno, Nevada, at this summer’s Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Michael is stealing the show. Michael , a 6-year-ole deaf Staffordshire Terrier found as a stray in the Reno area, was scheduled to be euthanized but was pulled at the last minute by Nanette Cronk of the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe. Adopted by Michelle Okashima, Michael has done more than his share to pay it forward.
Fame isn’t going to Michael’s head though. In addition to his role as a Crab in “The Two Gentlemen of Verona,” Michael is also a registered therapy dog, visiting schools, hospitals, and dropping in on veterans to share his sweet spirit and giving heart. Being deaf hasn’t proven to be a disability for Michael as his loving soul shines through, giving hope and encouragement to those he visits.
Michael’s chemistry with his costar, Kevin Crouch, is a case of perfect stage presence. Michael plays an irascible reprobate who has no interest at all in pleasing his owner. Michael’s antics on-stage include tossing well-timed apathetic looks to the audience, whining (at a tiny service dog in the audience), chewing on a foot, and scratching his head, prompting spontaneous laughter and applause.
Despite his role in the play, Michael loves to please people.
“He’s a wonderful guy, real sweet. I call him my big lump of brown sugar,” says Michelle.