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Bring your doggie to work day

posted by Kate Vangeloff on Thu, Jun 2, 2011
in At the theatre

There are a lot of things I love about working at Berkeley Rep. The people, the art, the playing of Nerf football when the marketing team is starting to lose it… I will miss it all dearly when my fellowship ends on July 1. However, there is one part of the office culture here that I will perhaps miss more than anything else. 

As a native of the Midwest I’m not sure if this is a prevalent practice in California or simply yet another quirky trait unique to Berkeley Rep, but this company allows its employees to bring their puppies to work. Indeed, I think this is a magical, transformative notion that should spread not only to other workplaces in California (if it hasn’t already), but to the rest of the United States, and perhaps, the world. I would personally like to pay homage to the awesomeness of this concept by profiling all the pups that have made my time at Berkeley Rep that much cooler.

Hilary—perhaps the most integral to my fellowship experience, Hilary is the faithful companion of our Literary Manager and Dramaturg, Madeleine. She has her own desk in the literary office in the form of a big red sofa. I like to imagine her kicking back with a script and cup of tea when no one’s looking.

Murray—discrediting the old adage that dogs look like their owners, Murray belongs to our Director of Development, Lynn Eve.  He loves babies and has more friends on Facebook than his owner. True story.

Lula—oh sweet, sweet Lula! Please don’t tell General Manager Karen Racanelli that I have plans to kidnap her dog…she may not appreciate it.

Jackson—defying pitbull stereotypes, Jackson defines the term "sweetie-pie." I actually overwhelmed him once with an enthusiastic greeting. He whimpers whenever Emiel, our facilities director, leaves his side.

 
Tofu—did you know your call to the box office might be monitored by a Shih Tzu?  It’s true, Tofu faithfully sits next to his owner and Box Office Agent, Destiny. He’s mastered Tessitura and has a great speaking voice.

Vera—Our newest edition recently rescued from a junkyard by scene shop Carpenter Stephanie and Master Carpenter Colin.  Sleepy puppy…enough said.