Fifty years ago the former Artistic Director of Goodspeed Opera House Michael Price gave Bill Berloni $35 to rescue a dog, in this case Sandy, to be in the musical “Annie,” that launched Bill’s career as an animal trainer. Before this significant moment Bill was a new intern at the theater, hoping to be an actor. Price promised Berloni that if he did this successfully, and found and trained a dog rescued from the pound, he would earn his acting certificate for his Actors’ Equity Association card.
That unexpected task set Berloni on a totally different life plan. He has since earned a lifetime achievement in Connecticut theater by the Connecticut Critics Circle for his training of rescue and breeder animals for stage, film, and television. Mr. Berloni trained Sandy for the original production of “Annie" at the Goodspeed Opera House and on Broadway. “Annie" is returning to the Goodspeed now to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
To hear his fascinating life story, gallop to the Palace Theater, 100 East Main Street, Waterbury on Sunday, October 25 at 2 p.m. in the Poli Restaurant. Come early at 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for an outdoor pet adoption at the Palace”s loading dock and see if a furry critter is in your future and learn about adoption opportunities.
As part of the Palace’s Upstaged series, for tickets ($25), visit the box office or go online to palacetheater.org.
Come hear Bill Berloni discuss the origins of his career, his work with “Annie," and his unusual and wonderful life as an animal trainer. He and his wife live on a farm in Connecticut where active and retired animals live alongside rescued animals. Maybe he will even bring one of his fuzzy troupe along.
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