For the Love of Dogs

For the third year in a row, I presented a one-on-one, face-to-face interactive performance for Valentine’s Day.  In this particular case, I wanted to honor the deep connection between people and dogs.  I was motivated by the suspicion that my own dog — Stella, the pitbull — was not long for this world.   Indeed, she was euthanized a few months after my performance.

The set-up for this performance was simple.  I spent a Sunday afternoon at a coffee shop in Tarrytown, NY.  I asked participants to tell me about one dog that they had loved at some point in their lives.  While listening to their heartfelt descriptions of a beloved pet, I created a special Valentine for the object of their affection.  I also allowed them to pick a gift from a group of dog-themed items that had been provided by a company called Dog is Good.

I was touched by the emotions that were evoked by this project.  So many people were brought to tears in recounting a dog tale.  It was easy for me to empathize with these people.  I get a lump in my throat when I think about my dear Stella!