The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is excited to welcome Mutts Gone Nuts to Sarasota on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 5pm. Tickets on sale now. Imagine some of the world’s most talented four-legged performers in an uproariously funny, comedy dog spectacular and you get Mutts Gone Nuts! The all-star lineup includes Feather, a Guinness world record holder, a two-time World Champion disc dog, an America’s Got Talent fan favorite, and a host of previously discarded dogs that will dance, prance, flip, and skip their way right into your heart. The family friendly show runs about 70 minutes and was created by veteran comedy team Scott and Joan Houghton, who performed their duo act ‘Jessie & James’ on variety stages from Tokyo to Las Vegas. In 2014, The Houghtons joined forces with some of the country’s top dog trainers and hilarious opening act Hilby, The Skinny German Juggle Boy to create an action packed, comedy, dog spectacular. Mutts Gone Nuts’ dogs were mostly adopted from shelters or rescues. Sometimes the very behavior that drove the previous owner to relinquish the dog becomes the dog’s star quality. Mutts Gone Nuts’ trainers use ‘positive’ force-free training methods. They look for the dog’s natural talents by getting to know their individual personalities. Once they find out what the dog likes to do, they reinforce those behaviors with treats and/or toys. Co-producer and emcee, Scott Houghton says “I feel lucky to have come into dog training at a time when force-free, positive training is the gold standard”. Positive training not only helps build the trust bond between you and your dog but it makes it fun for the dog and the trainer. When dogs perform behaviors they are naturally inclined to do, they are happiest. When not on tour, Mutts Gone Nuts’ furry cast members have the run of three fenced acres, and of course they all live in the house (some even sleep in their bed). Deemed “A must see!” by The Washington Post the dogs will not only amaze you, they’ll steal your heart, and maybe your socks! Mutts Gone Nuts is sure to win Best in Show! Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased at www.VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groups of 10 or more should contact 941-263-6726. Pre-show dining is available through Mattison’s at the Van Wezel which is located inside the theatre. Reservations can be made on VanWezel.org or through the box office. Mutts Gone Nuts is locally sponsored by Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue. Adoptable dogs from Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue will be at the Van Wezel prior to the Mutts Gone Nuts performance.