Broadway has always had its share of captivating stars, but the new play Left on Tenth brings a whole new level of tail-wagging excitement! Written by Delia Ephron and starring the phenomenal Julianna Margulies and Peter Gallagher, this romantic comedy doesn’t just feature dazzling humans—it includes two paw-sitively adorable rescue dogs stealing the show every night.
Meet Nessa Rose and Charlie, the furry co-stars lighting up the stage alongside Margulies and Gallagher. Nessa Rose plays “Honey,” and three-year-old Charlie plays “Charlie” in this heartwarming production. Both pups were rescued and trained by the legendary Bill Berloni, Broadway’s go-to animal trainer who has a knack for turning shelter animals into stars.
“Charlie had been in foster care on Long Island because, while sweet, he had a tendency to bite,” Berloni explained. “With some patient behavior modification and trust-building, we were able to calm his nerves.” After six weeks of training at Berloni’s Haddam compound ahead of rehearsals, Charlie showed he was born to be a star.
“Delia just had to have a Havanese,” Berloni shared. And who could argue? The playwright’s semi-autobiographical heroine, portrayed by Margulies, is perfectly complemented by Charlie, who was chosen for his charming looks and lovable demeanor.
Margulies and Gallagher bring their own love for dogs to the stage. Margulies is a proud dog mom to Rocket, an adopted pup, while Gallagher dotes on his Labrador retriever, Spinee. Their real-life affection for animals adds a beautiful authenticity to their on-stage performances.
Bill Berloni: The Man Behind the Paws
The magic of Nessa Rose and Charlie is no accident. Bill Berloni, who received the Tony Honor for Excellence in Theater, has spent his career rescuing and training animals for stage, screen, and beyond. His extraordinary journey began at age 20 when he trained his first rescue dog for a production of Annie. Since then, Berloni and his wife Dorothy have dedicated their lives to finding, training, and caring for animals of all kinds—from pigs to Great Danes—for Broadway, movies, and TV.
Berloni’s work has graced productions like Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building (featuring a dog and a piglet) , Because of Winn Dixie, Bullets over Broadway and the recent film The Friend, where a Great Dane starred alongside Naomi Watts. All animals come from a shelter, humane society, or rescue league, and when their careers are over, they enjoy a happy retirement at Berloni’s Connecticut farm.
His passion extends beyond the stage, as he’s a tireless advocate for animal welfare, supporting organizations like the Humane Society of New York. Check more on his impactful journey- HERE!
Adopt Your Own Star
Inspired by Bill Berloni or Nessa Rose and Charlie’s journey from shelter to spotlight? You, too, can make a difference. Visit your local shelter to meet your own furry co-star—one who’s sure to bring joy, love, and maybe even a little drama to your life!
And don’t miss the chance to see Left on Tenth. Tickets are selling fast for this must-see Broadway play, where rescue dogs prove they’re just as captivating as their human counterparts. Head to the box office or visit the play’s official website to secure your spot!
With humor, heart, and paws galore, Left on Tenth is a standing ovation for rescue animals everywhere. Grab your tickets today, and let these stars, human and canine alike, steal your heart!
