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Opera House Cinema Series to screen ‘Pick of the Litter’

Submitted Photo In "Pick of the Litter," audiences meet five spirited puppies who, from the moment they're born, begin an incredible journey to become guide dogs for the blind.

The next feature film in the Opera House Cinema Series is the endearing documentary “Pick of the Litter.” It will be screened on Saturday, Oct. 13, and Tuesday, Oct. 16, at 7:30 p.m.

In “Pick of the Litter,” audiences meet Patriot, Potomac, Primrose, Poppet and Phil – five spirited puppies who, from the moment they’re born, begin an incredible journey to become guide dogs for the blind. It’s a rigorous two-year process that will take the pups from the care of selfless foster volunteers to specialized trainers to, if they make the cut, a lifelong human companion. At every step of the way, the puppies will be tested, challenged, and evaluated. Only the best of the best will be chosen for the job of guide dog. Who has what it takes? Introducing viewers to an unforgettable cast of canine personalities and the dedicated individuals who work with them, “Pick of the Litter” is an uplifting, bighearted celebration of the unique bond between humans and dogs.

Scott Marks, in the San Diego Reader, calls the film “by far the most joyous time you’ll have at the movies all year.” Katie Walsh, in the Los Angeles Times, calls it “a complete delight, a much-needed balm for the soul.” Moira MacDonald, in the Seattle Times, calls it “earnest and heartwarming, filled with adorable camera-licking and tight close-ups of beseeching doggy eyes.” Ben Kenigsberg, in The New York Times, says “bans on talking in movie theaters should be briefly lifted for anyone who can’t resist shouting ‘Go, Poppet!’ on test days. Which should be almost everyone.” Unrated, “Pick of the Litter” runs one hour, 21 minutes.

The Opera House Cinema Series is sponsored by Lake Shore Savings Bank. Tickets are available at the door for $7 (adults), $6.50 (seniors & Opera House members) and $5 (students) the night of each screening. A book of 10 movie passes is available for $60 at the door or online at www.fredopera.org. Thanks to the generous support of an anonymous donor, the first 20 SUNY Fredonia students at each screening are admitted free. For more information, call the Opera House Box Office at 716-679-1891.

The Opera House is equipped with individualized closed captioning headsets for the deaf as well as with assistive listening headsets for the hearing-impaired. Simply request one from any usher or Opera House staff member.

The 1891 Fredonia Opera House is a member-supported not-for-profit performing arts center located in Village Hall in downtown Fredonia. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.fredopera.org.

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