Performing Toto: Company Artist Kurtis Sprowls turns Puppeteer for The Wizard of Oz
We are going to discuss what everyone really wants to know about The Wizard of Oz ballet…
How will the role of Toto be portrayed when the show graces the Benedum Center stage May 9-18?
In the 1939 iconic film version of The Wizard of Oz, Toto was played by a female Cairn Terrier named “Terry.” The pup was paid a higher rate than many of the human actors, and performed all her own stunts, actually spraining her paw at one point during filming! Terry’s name was eventually formally changed to “Toto” due to the movie’s popularity.
In Septime Webre’s ballet version of the beloved story and film, Toto is represented by an astonishingly life-like puppet with 19 individual body parts, puppeteered by a PBT artist. This remarkable puppet, along with 26 others that appear in the ballet, was designed by Nicholas Mahon. Toto accompanies Dorothy throughout the entire story, playing an essential role within the plot. There really isn’t anything this pup can’t do, including tail wagging, head tilting and jumping into the characters’ arms. Only time will tell if this adorable puppeteered dog will steal the show!
To answer all your Toto-related questions, we interviewed PBT Corps de Ballet artist Kurtis Sprowls, who puppeteers Toto in PBT’s May performances of The Wizard of Oz with the PBT Orchestra.
Have you had any other roles similar to Toto that so heavily involved working with a prop or puppet?
This role is unique to me because it is completely about the puppet. I haven’t experienced a role like Toto where I am an extension of the prop. It’s been really challenging and exciting to portray.
What is it like to manipulate Toto while still moving as a ballet dancer?
It’s difficult for sure! I’m using my brain in a different way, to where I am not only thinking about what my body is doing, but what Toto is doing and how we are both able to be one. I’m finding new ways to move and interact with Toto and the rest of the cast every day!
How many puppets do you work with in the ballet?
I work with two puppets in this production: a chicken and Toto.
Being used to using your body as your instrument, how long did it take you to get comfortable moving an instrument that goes past your own limbs?
I would say some movements are easier than others. I’m learning more and more every day. Who knows what Toto will be able to do by opening night!
Do you have a dog in mind whose movements you try to mimic as Toto?
Definitely! I try to portray Toto as a cross between Wishbone and Scrappy Doo. A little mischievous, but inquisitive and mission-oriented to get back to Kansas. We also can’t forget, lovable and playful!
Toto is such an integral part of the story. What do you think the audience will enjoy most about the character?
His tail wagging!
See Kurtis and Toto in action!
Come see Kurtis, Toto and the entire cast, along with the PBT Orchestra, in the Pittsburgh premiere of The Wizard of Oz, at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh, May 9-18!