"Dog Gone Silly" is…Doggone funny!


Reno favorite J.R. Johns and 14 of his best friends romp their way on to The Strip and into the audience's hearts in the Harmon Theater at 3 p.m. daily.


Dog Gone Silly Tickets


This general audience offering is unlike that of any other as veteran physical comedian/dog trainer takes you on a four-part journey through what some press have called a living cartoon. J.R. plays straight man to a constant barrage of pranks perpetrated on him by his canine co-stars. Combining the arts of slapstick, award winning acrobatics, tongue-in-cheek magic and ridiculous props it is simply a performance unlike any other. Johns performs many characters throughout such as "The Discount Dog Catcher."


Ironically, his partners are all rescues or adoptions, which in real life makes him as good-hearted as the characters he portrays on stage. The collection of four-legged co-stars boasts a Great Dane, unusual White Boxers, many mixed breeds as well as a couple of naughty Jack Russell Terriers, one more talented than the next.


Also joining the cast is the irreverent antics of Spike McGuire. This talented young comic put a whole new spin on how to use Yo-Yo's as well as his own special take on other variety artist skills that are as impressive as they are funny.


J.R. got his start in show business at a theme park in Florida owned by Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey. "It was a great apprenticeship," Johns says. "I got the opportunity and privilege to work with all kinds of exotic animals and learned how to read and respect them. Dogs I just found to be so much more amazing as they actively thrive on your approval. I think one of the keys to why my show is successful is the genuine affection and interaction between me and the guys." Referring to his dogs.  "Also, I feel that I have a real talent for creating the right bit or behavior for that particular dog. Just like people they all have their own personalities. I just try to find what they are suited to and enjoy doing the most."


As well as being a Reno celebrity J.R. and the Guys' have performed on numerous television shows such as "The Late Show" with David Letterman, "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, the "Today" show and "America's Got Talent" to name a few. "TV is always tough to do well. Shows just don't want to give you enough time to develop material. But they do give you instant exposure that has always helped my dogs be all they can be. Our stage is where we really shine and we want all of Las Vegas to come and see us. You don't have to be a dog lover to enjoy our show." Johns said. "You only have to bring a sense of humor. Oh…and maybe a couple of milk bones."


DOG CATCHING: "Dog Gone Silly" at the Harmon Theater runs Tuesday thru Sunday at 3 p.m. Doors open at 2 p.m.


Dog Gone Silly Tickets