''Harry and the Dirty Dog'' at the Smith

Written by Gene Zion and with distinctive illustrations by Margaret Bloy Graham, "Harry the Dirty Dog" has captivated young people since 1956 with the misadventures of its lovable -- if somewhat dingy -- canine hero. Now, acclaimed producer ArtsPower National Touring Theatre brings this classic book to the stage at Smith Opera House.

Harry has a white coat, black spots, and a very loving family. He is, generally speaking, one of the happiest little dogs around. There aren’t many things Harry doesn’t like...but baths are certainly on the list. So when the time comes for his wash, Harry’s only option is to bury his scrub brush and run away from home.

He passes a marvelous day getting as messy as possible: he plays in dirt, in coal, in all the grimiest and most wonderful places imaginable. Exhausted, he comes back home at last -- only to discover that his family doesn’t recognize him! His efforts have turned him from a white dog with black spots into a black dog with white spots. 

Now what is Harry to do? Why didn’t he think before how important his family was to him? And how can he show them who he really is?

"Harry the Dirty Dog" was adapted for the stage by ArtsPower’s artistic director Greg Gunning, who also wrote the lyrics and directed the production. Composer and orchestrator Richard DeRosa created the original Broadway-style score.

"Harry’s appeal is remarkably broad," says ArtsPower executive producer Gary Blackman. "The story is very playful and lighthearted, but parents know it’s more than just silliness. Harry makes some very interesting points about inner and outer identity, asking kids to think about which is more important.

The final performance in The Smith’s 2007/08 "ArtSmart Theatre for Young People Series," all tickets to "Harry the Dirty Dog" are $4.50. 

This whimsical and touching, hour-long show is open to all school audiences and the general public. The play is intended for children in grades pre-K - 2nd.