BARK! THE MUSICAL at Key City Public Theatre To Feature Linda Dowdell as Music Director

Key City Public Theatre will welcome back acclaimed music director Linda Dowdell for the highly anticipated return of Bark! The Musical, directed by Artistic Director Denise Winter.

Fifteen years after its celebrated Washington State Premiere at KCPT in 2011, Bark! The Musical returns to the stage by overwhelming popular demand. Since its original production, the heartfelt and hilarious musical has remained one of the most requested shows in the theatre's history.

Dowdell, recipient of the prestigious Sound on Stage award for Original Music Composition this past September, reunites with Winter and the KCPT creative team to bring fresh energy, music, and joy to the beloved production.

"Bark! has held a special place in our community's heart for years," said Winter. "Audiences have continued asking us to bring it back, and we're beyond excited to finally make that happen. Linda's return makes this production even more meaningful."

Filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable songs, Bark! The Musical explores the world through the eyes of six dogs waiting in a neighborhood doggie daycare while their owners remain unseen. Through playful storytelling and touching musical numbers, the dogs reveal their hopes, fears, quirks, and longing for connection - creating a charming and deeply human theatrical experience.

For Dowdell, returning to KCPT for this production feels like coming home.

"Working on Bark! again after all these years is incredibly special," said Dowdell. "This show has such warmth, humor, and emotional honesty. I'm excited to revisit it with Denise and introduce it to a whole new generation of audiences."

The production celebrates not only the return of a fan favorite, but also KCPT's continued commitment to creating joyful, community-centered theatre experiences on the Olympic Peninsula. The ensemble cast features Brendan Chambers, Robert Winstead, Karen Skrinde, Maggie Jo Bulkley, Elaine Tosado and Kat Agudo. Dowdell leads the dynamic pit band on piano with Isaac Jasinski on bass and Angie Tabor on drums.

Performances of Bark! The Musical begin April 30 and runs through May 24 at Key City Public Theatre.