My Night With The Amazing Acro-Cats and Rock-Cats!

Dakota on drums

I've been longing for the chance to see The Amazing Acro-Cats and The Rock-Cats, live and in the fur, ever since seeing their segment on Animal Planet's Must Love Cats back in 2011. 

Unfortunately, the Chicago-based troupe doesn't get out to the East Coast very often, but when I heard they were doing a stint this past weekend at The Painted Bride Art Center in Philadelphia, I knew I had to go!



The traveling cat circus is the brainchild of animal trainer Samantha Martin, who takes her fantastic felines around the country, to show off their skills and teach the benefits of clicker training. 

The spectacle consists of one part circus act and one part rock show, where cats jump through hoops, balance on balls, and "The Rock Cats" take the stage while playing their tiny instruments. All of the purrformers belong to Martin, and many of them are rescues with touching stories, as she relays during show.


Tuna says we need moar cowbell!

In addition to cats, Martin's menagerie includes rats, a groundhog, and two very brave chickens. She also brings foster kittens on the road to help get them adopted (she's placed over 100 to date), and they get in on the act, too.


Yes, that's a chicken!

Each performance is a unique event based on the unpredictability of cats, and audience members are encouraged to wear kitty ears to get in the mood (or, "to hear the show twice as well"). After the crowd got warmed up, The Acrocats took the stage, headed by a sleek black feline named Buggles:



Everyone cheered as Pudge jumped through a hoop:



And this kitty was on a roll...literally!



The kitties clearly work on their own schedule, and sometimes it was even funnier when things didn't go exactly according to plan:



There was also a rousing match of Groundhog vs. Cat bowling. I was rooting for Tuna, but in the end they called it a draw when both parties failed to make the spare:



The highlight, and most eagerly anticipated part of the show for me was seeing my favorite band, The Rock Cats!





The trio was accompanied by a chicken on cymbals, and of course, Tuna, who is always there to provide more cowbell!



I had so much fun, and was excited to finally make my Rock Cats dreams come true. If the troupe is ever in your town, I highly recommend checking them out for a unique experience, that's purrfect for the whole family!

Their next tour stop is July 17-20 at The Griffen Theatre in Salem, Massachusetts, followed shortly after by their Canadian debut. Visit circuscats.com to get the full schedule and ticketing information. You can also follow Buggles and Tuna on Twitter, and like them on Facebook here.

My Night With The Amazing Acro-Cats and Rock-Cats!

Meet The Two Cat Actors Vying For A Role In "Breakfast at Tiffany's" On Broadway

Vito Vincent and Monty

Earlier this month, eight cats clawed their way into an open casting call for the dream role of Holly Golightly's beloved kitty, Cat, in the upcoming production of "Breakfast at Tiffany's" on Broadway. 

The pool has since been narrowed down to two fortunate felines who will potentially act alongside "Game of Thrones" star Emilia Clarke in the iconic role, including a sturdy orange tabby named Vito Vincent, and a lithe Tuxedo kitty, named Monty. Monty, 8, and Vito Vincent, 6, are both professional cat actors, with numerous roles under their tiny belts. They both also share unique rags-to-riches stories, that tell of their hard fought paths to the Broadway stage.

On Wednesday morning, the cast, creative team, and cats behind "Breakfast at Tiffany's" gathered for a press conference in the Royal Suite at the famed Carlyle Hotel in New York City. I was granted access to the event thanks to Fancy Feast, and am proud to say that I was the only kitty correspondent in attendance!


Monty

Before appearing on Broadway and attending exclusive media events, Monty the cat's life began after he was dumped on a road by Babette Corelli's farm. The animal rescuer, trainer, and agent tells me that it took her nearly a month to catch him, and that it took another year before she started taking him along on jobs. Corelli describes him as a smart cat, who is a fast learner, and loves attention. "He's always the first cat to jump in the crate to go on set," she says.

Monty is now a Hollywood veteran, having trained for roles including "The Heat" with Sandra Bullock, "Life Before Her Eyes" with Uma Thurman, and "Sex and the City: The Movie." He has also appeared on "30 Rock," "The Late Show with David Letterman," and "Rescue Me."

The petite feline, who bears an adorable white spot on his forehead, is filled with an excited energy and is as affectionate as can be. While I was snapping a few photos, he began rubbing against me, and I could hear him start to purr.


Vito Vincent as Christianne Amanpurr on "The Colbert Report"

I immediately recognized ginger tabby, Vito Vincent, as a famous feline in his own right. Most notably, he has appeared on "30 Rock" and on "The Colbert Report" as Senior Corespondent, Christianne Amanpurr. He was also the subject of a major Los Angeles Times feature last year, "A star isn't born - yet," about the trials and tribulations of a cat actor trying to make it in show business. Unlike Monty's more frenetic energy, Vito can only be described as one cool cat. Far from being a diva, the charismatic kitty eagerly accepted chin scritches while I chatted with his proud dad, Michael LeCrichia, about his cat's humble beginnings. 

The domestic shorthair was relinquished to a Brooklyn shelter as a kitten, and was brought to Bideawee, where Michael adopted him when he was 7-months-old. He trained the cat to walk on a leash early on because of his history - he didn't want to put Vito in a cage, making him feel abandoned all over again. 

The pair live in New York City, where Vito accompanies Michael everywhere he goes. After taking the cat to an event where he was mistaken for a hired animal actor, LeCrichia realized his kitty's potential and eventually found him an agent. Vito Vincent is trained to sit, stay, come, and jump, and can ride an escalator. In addition to his television roles, he has done work for Macy's, Animal Planet, Target, and American Greetings, and is also the highest level of therapy cat through Pet Partners.


The feline star indulges in a well-deserved cat nap between interviews

Both kitties are represented by Dawn Animal Agency, Babette Corelli's family run business that has been providing professional animals to the media since 1959. In addition to their extensive roster of furry actors, which includes everything from cats and dogs to rodents and camels, they also run a Sanctuary for less fortunate animals, that is supported in part by working animal actors like Monty.

I'm regularly asked for tips on how people can get their cat started in showbiz, so I took the opportunity to get Corelli's expert advice. The first question she asks is, "What is its personality?" If your cat hears a noise and is curious and shows interest, they just might have what it takes to become a feline thespian. Take time to observe if they really look at things and seem to understand them, as opposed to being frightened or running away in fear. 

The next important step, she says, is making sure your cat is leash trained, and taking them outside to see how they respond. Confirm that your kitty has an outgoing personality and likes strangers. It's not fair to force them into being in an uncomfortable environment. 

If you still think you might have a star on your hands, contact a reputable animal agency for an expert opinion. Corelli admits that they mostly use their own animals, however they maintain a file of outside talent for roles that require something they don't have. 

You'll want to provide the agency with clear front and profile photos of your cat, along with their rough measurements and any unique talents or characteristics they possess, such as liking water or being able to high five. In addition to leash training, Babette also recommends teaching your kitty its name and the "come" command. Not only is this helpful on a set full of cats where she is trying to get one individual kitty's attention, it's also helpful if your cat gets away at home or on set, and you need to easily call them back. 


Holly Golightly and Cat in the 1961 film version of "Breakfast at Tiffany's"

Monty and Vito Vincent began on-set rehearsals earlier this week so they'll both be prepared  to take on the part, although whichever deserving feline ultimately nabs the role will have some big paw prints to fill. 

At least nine kitties were used during the production of the 1961 movie, but only one named Orangey is credited with playing the role of Audrey Hepburn's cat. Orangey was a professional animal actor with a 15 year film and television career, and was the first feline to win two Patsy Awards, the animal equivalent of an Oscar.

"Breakfast at Tiffany's" begins previews on March 4, and opens on Broadway March 20 at the Cort Theatre. Tickets are available now through telecharge and the Cort Theatre box office.

Meet The Two Cat Actors Vying For A Role In "Breakfast at Tiffany's" On Broadway

NYC IS NYAN CAT CITY

#NYANCATCITY

The internet and real life collided Thursday night at the opening of NYAN CAT CITY, a 4-day cultural event, and the first ever pop-up dedicated to an online meme. The concept is a collaboration between Nyan Cat creator Chris Torres and meme manager Ben Lashes, and New York Art Department, who curated and produced the event.


Me and Nyan Cat creator Chris Torres

The grand opening party was held last night in downtown NYC, where I was fortunate enough to meet Chris, who said the entire experience was a dream come true. The store, which will be open now through Sunday at The Hole Shop (312 Bowery), contains items such as Nyan Cat t-shirts, hoodies, charms, shot glasses, stickers, wallets, and more, with prices ranging from $15 for a limited edition Cool Jazz Nyan Cat Plushie, to $300 for a Custom Nyan Cat Sphero.


Wallets

Torres tells me that some items are exclusive to the shop, while others are "exclusive for now" - meaning they may be available elsewhere in the future. If the pop-up is successful, which I'm confident it will be based on how many passerby's stopped to peer in (it's hard to miss the giant Nyan Cat decal on the window), there's also a possibility it could be sticking around for a longer run. 


Shot Glasses


Limited Edition Sphero Balls


Hoodies

I also spoke to Chris about his cat Marty, the inspiration behind Nyan Cat, who passed away last month after a brief battle with FIP. Torres, who currently has two kitties (Shorty, and the delightfully named Princess Beyonce), admits it was a difficult loss, but says the success of Nyan Cat will continue the Russian Blue's legacy.


Anestasia Vodka Bar

The party itself featured a Nyan Cat-inspired Anestasia vodka bar with a full rainbow of mixers, while guests enjoyed music by DVD And DJ George Costanza, and played Sphero Nyan Cat Space Party. Of course, no event would be complete without swag, and Nyan Cat City didn't disappoint. My haul included a "Fashion Cats" book, Sphero Nyan Cat Space Party tee, Zombie Nyan Cat sticker, limited edition Nyan Cat Cosmic Button, and very best of all, a Cool Jazz Nyan Cat plushie of my very own (Yes, it plays the song and I never want it to stop).


Cool Jazz Nyan Cat Plushie

In case you missed last night's festivities, don't despair, Nyan Cat City is still going strong. In addition to the pop-up which will be open from now through Sunday, upcoming highlights include art talks (including one about cats and cat memes), a zine fair, a benefit art auction, a Nyan Cat themed holiday brunch, and a Nightmeme Before Xmas Party. They've also teamed up with The Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals for two days of cute kitten adoption, with all applicants receiving a Nyan Cat plushie! 



I had an awesome time last night, and highly encourage everyone to stop by the shop if they're in the area. Details, locations, and times for all events can be found here, and on the New York Art Department's website.

Oh, and speaking of memes come to life: I also met Scumbag Steve!!!

NYC IS NYAN CAT CITY

Matilda the Algonquin Cat Celebrates Homecoming with Annual Charity Event and Cat Fashion Show

Chiquita Banana Carmen Miranda

Last night for the second year in a row, I attended Matilda the cat's summer reception at New York City's legendary Algonquin Hotel. The annual soirée was part celebration of the hotel's famous resident feline, and also a charity event for a local animal welfare organization.

While last year's reception served as a debutante ball for the Ragdoll, this year was a welcome home party of sorts. Matilda III, who has resided at the Algonquin since 2010, has not had a year without hardship. Controversy erupted in November when the famous feline was forced out of the hotel's lobby after concerns were raised by the health department, and she was also temporarily displaced when the hotel closed for a 5-month, $18 million dollar renovation earlier this year.

Read More: On Location at Matilda the Algonquin Cat's Debutante Ball in NYC

Cat fanciers in attendance last night munched on crudités, wraps, and chicken skewers, while glasses of red and white wine flowed plentifully. As usual, a group of professional "MEWdels" (running the gamut from impossibly fluffy Persians to hairless Sphynx kittens) were on hand to model the fabulous, custom made Meow Wear fashions created by designer Carla Reiss. Pet lifestyle expert, author, and all around nice lady Sandy Robins hosted the event courtesy of Fancy Feast, while other celebrity guests included Randall ("Honey Badger Don't Care") who was reporting for Paw Nation, and Julie Klausner who provided commentary for The Daily Beast.

Raffle tickets could be purchased to win ultra-cool cat themed packages (which I sadly did not win), while all partygoers received custom made goodie bags, featuring a small picture of Matilda in a heart-shaped frame.

The bash benefited NY Save, an organization devoted to providing veterinary care for pet owners in need of financial assistance. Bideawee also attended the event, with several kittens who were up for adoption.

Matilda held court from the confines of her Sturdi cat carrier, but was not in the mood to come out and make a formal appearance. I went over to say hello and wish her well, to which she responded, "Meow!" (and according to this picture she posted on Facebook this morning, she had a very good time, indeed.)

The Algonquin Hotel has had a cat in residence since 1932 when owner Frank Case opened his doors to a traveling kitty, who never left in spirit. Matilda is the 10th Algonquin cat, and was adopted from the North Shore Animal League after her predecessor, Matilda II, retired from her post as Directfurr of Guest Relations at the age of 15. Guests from all around the world come to visit the iconic feline, and can even book her eponymous package, which reportedly includes a plush Matilda doll, and a CATabulous eye mask for “the best cat nap in town!”

One of the MEWdels gets a squeeze.

Prince Charming

Prima Ballerina

Julie Klausner gets cozy with some furry friends.

Baby Dragonfly

This dapper dude needed a break in between outfit changes.

She knows she looks fierce!

These ladies were showing off the Meow Wear, which was displayed on tiny hangers.

This Sphynx was clearly thrilled with his exotic, dragonfly print top.

Favorite cat. Best cat. It's also worth noting that this kitty did not move a muscle the.entire.night. And oh yeah, this Carmen Miranda is actually a boy! "He's a cross-dresser, and he loves Chick-fil-A," his owner joked.

Matilda the Algonquin Cat Celebrates Homecoming with Annual Charity Event and Cat Fashion Show

Cats in Cars and Feline Agility: Garden State Cat Club Show & Expo 2012

Waffle and Tirzah

This weekend I donned my finest cat apparel (it's not like wearing a band's shirt to their concert, right?) and headed to the Garden State Cat Club Cat Show & Expo in Somerset, NJ. Far from just a cat show, the expo aims to educate the public about cats, cat care, and new products and training. The lobby of the exhibit hall is donated to numerous local shelters who are invited to bring their cats and kittens for adoption, and there are also informative demonstrations on feline grooming and first-aid. The event has been touted as one of the top two cat shows in the United States (the largest one on the east coast), and was even visited by John Fulton on the first season of Animal Planet's "Must Love Cats." (Read about my trip to last year's show here).

Feline Agility Course

In addition to checking out all of the amazing cats who were competing in the show and perusing all of the cool kitty gear for sale in the "Meow Mall," one of the highlights of this year's event was the Feline Agility Competition. You may have heard of dog agility courses, and feline agility is essentially the same thing, just with a smaller course, lower jumps, and more er..reluctant participants.

Instead of being motivated by the prospect of treats, the cats are led through the various obstacles with a feather wand toy (watch this "Kitten Agility Training" video for the cutest example you'll ever seen in your life). I did see a few young cats successfully make their way through the course, however most of the show cats seemed to enjoy giving their owners a work out, as they hid in tunnels, or attempted to go under hoops instead of through them. One particularly adorable five-month-old Persian (pictured above) was greeted with cheers after she entered the ring and jumped through a hoop unprovoked, before showing decidedly less interest while being led through the course by her now frustrated owner.

At one point, they asked for volunteers from the crowd, and heart racing, I excitedly jumped up and shrieked "Me! Me!" (Unfortunately, I was also too excited to think about asking someone to take pictures). After being given a brief run-down of the proper place to drag and tap the feather to achieve the desired results, I was paired up with a 7-month-old cat named Mr. Brown. A trained professional, this kitten could have run the course with his eyes closed, and in fact, I was the one doing most of the running as I struggled to keep up with the eager kitten as he shot from one obstacle to the next.

"Not bad!" the woman in charge of the ring said after we finished the course, before giving me an enthusiastic high-five. I was also awarded a certificate for my efforts, and you better believe I will be treasuring it for many years to come.

Waffle

Two more kitties who definitely lived up to their hype were Waffle and Tirzah, the car bound cats from Basic9.com. Waffle, the handsome black and white cat, wore red sunglasses and a patriotic bandana as he and his sleepy tortie sis made their way through the exhibit hall (and I excitedly chased after them, iPhone in hand). The duo are owned by Gregg and Karen Sue McCandless, who take them to various events, and hope they will inspire others to smile, "and be motivated to share this most outrageous moment when you saw the two cats that cruise around in their own miniature 1938 Model A car and cart."

Tirzah

Waffle may not actually have his license (Greg operates the car using a remote control he holds behind his back, and also speaks as the cat through a headset), but the amazing kitty car garnered quite a crowd on Saturday afternoon. During one particularly hilarious moment, the tenacious tuxie challenged a woman in a motorized wheelchair to a race -- to which she gladly accepted, and promptly lost.

All in all, I had a great time again this year, and met many kitties I will not soon forget. I also want to give a shout-out to Janna and her husband Andy of Chester SmooshyFace, who I finally got to meet in-person for the first time!

Cat or disapproving marshmallow?

Amazing Kitty Cake

Cat Dreams Are Made of These

My favorite IAMS Ambassador cat, Hope!

Anybody need a cat bib?

Each of the judging stations were decorated with a different theme. I want to be on their crafting committee!

For more information on the Garden State Cat Club, please visit their website at gardenstatecatclub.com.

Cats in Cars and Feline Agility: Garden State Cat Club Show & Expo 2012

Super Cat Adoption Day Part 2: Black Cats, Bandanas & Forever Homes!

Yesterday I gave you the rundown on Super Cat Adoption Day, a pawesome event put on by the North Brunswick Humane Association to bring together local shelters in a virtual meow mall! (Read Super Cat Adoption Day Part 1: Kitty Litter Cake, Kittens & More HERE). In addition to the shelters and rescues I profiled yesterday, here are six more organizations and their featured felines, along with their greatest needs in addition to monetary donations.

Many of the shelters said that in addition to wet cat food, kitten supplies, litter, and foster homes, one of their greatest needs is volunteers. No matter where you live, if you consider taking even a few hours one Saturday a month to help out at an adoption event, it could really make a difference!

Liberty Humane Society

Featured Kitties: Piper (above) and Diego (below), who was described as "a little clown." Colleen also told me that he is "one cool cat" who reminds her of Garfield.

Needs: Volunteers, litter

TLC Rescue Inc.

Featured Kitty: Hansel is a six-year-old cat who is declawed and was left to fend for himself on the streets of Jersey City. He is very sweet, and has been in foster care for the past 3-4 months.

Needs: Millie tells me that what they needs most is volunteers to help socialize the cats. "I can buy them toys and food, but what they need most is human companionship."

Second Chance for Animals/Franklin Township Animal Shelter

Featured Kitty: Popo, a handsome 6-year-old black cat.

Needs: Volunteers! They need people willing to give up at least one Saturday a month to help with their adoption events.

Lost Paws Animal Rescue

Featured Kitty: Tiger Lily, a gorgeous polydactyl calico (above) and Penelope (below). Penelope was not at the event, but volunteer Kelly told me she would "cry" if she got adopted. She has lived in a cage her whole life, and has had trouble finding a home because she does not like other cats.

Needs: Kitten supplies (bottles, etc.), kitten food, non-clumping litter

Happy Paws Rescue, Inc.

Featured Kitty: Bill is an owner surrender who is 9-10 months old. He was napping when I stopped by, but I couldn't help but admire his stylish bandana! The sign on his cage said that he can't wait to come running when you get home, and then fall asleep in your lap!

Needs: Foster homes and volunteers

Monmouth County SPCA

Although I was hoping to talk with my friends from MCSPCA, I can't say I was too disappointed to see this sign posted to their table! A purrfect sign to end a purrfect event that in total found homes for 50+ cats from a dozen shelters throughout the New Jersey area.

Super Cat Adoption Day Part 2: Black Cats, Bandanas & Forever Homes!

Super Cat Adoption Day Part 1: Kitty Litter Cake, Kittens & More!

Did you know that June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month? This weekend, I had the pleasure of celebrating by attending an awesome cat rescue event in North Brunswick, NJ called Super Cat Adoption Day.

The event was sponsored by the North Brunswick Humane Association, and was the first of its kind in the area. It brought together a dozen local shelters, and over 100 adoptable cats and kittens in once place, providing a virtual feline shopping mall for those interested in adopting a pet.

Sweet lil' babies Onyx & Raven from NBHA!

I spoke with NBHA President, Jay Soloway, about how the innovative idea came about. He told me NBHA has been trying to raise money for a no-kill facility in the area, but since the fundraising process was slow, they decided to put the project on the back burner in favor of using the funds they had already raised to help out the community in other ways. NBHA currently provides spay and neuter subsidies, has a pet food bank to help out local families in need, provides humane education to elementary schools, and raises funds to assist local animal shelters and groups. Out of this idea grew the concept for Super Cat Adoption Day, where they would foot the bill, and invite local area rescues to come together and adopt out their cats.

The venue, Our Lady of Peace Recreation Center, was kindly donated by Father John, and they also received awesome free "cat starter kits" to distribute to adopters from Katie's Pet Depot. Raritan Animal Hospital kindly donated their time to talk to potential adopters and to make sure all of the kitties were ok, and local radio station Magic 98.3 also showed up to help promote the event.

Litter Box Cake (Those are just tootsie rolls, don't worry!)

When I arrived at noon, Jay told me that 25 to 30 cats had already found their forever homes - which is pretty impressive considering it was only two hours into the five hour event! I was also treated to his delicious kitty litter cake, that while looked a bit TOO realistic, was absolutely delicious (you can find a version of the recipe here).

Preliminary numbers show that 43 cats were taken home on Saturday, with 8 - 9 applications still pending, for a total of 51 or 52 adoptions in all! All but one of the rescues I spoke with told me that they had adopted out or taken applications for at least one cat (if not several more), and many of the volunteers expressed enthusiasm and gratitude over the chance to get together with the local community to help raise awareness for their organizations.

At the event, I stopped by each of the tables and chatted with the volunteers about a cat they would like me to feature, and also got the scoop on their biggest needs in addition to monetary donations. Here's what they had to say!

Sammy's Hope/Edison Animal Shelter

Featured Kitty: Princess. This 9-year-old black beauty was surrendered after her owner had a baby who was allergic to cats. She has been at the shelter for around three months and is in desperate need of a forever home.

Needs: Food, litter, wet kitten food (the township doesn't provide it), toys

Sayreville Pet Adoption Center

Featured Kitty: Tasha has a neurological disorder called Cerebellar Hypoplasia and has been at the shelter since she was a kitten. She is now 6-years-old, and was resting very peacefully in her bed on a table throughout the event.

Needs: Cat food, litter, detergent

Plainfield Area Humane Society

Featured Kitty: Vexz. When I asked volunteers Roseanna and Tamara which cat I should feature, they both lit up and immediately pointed to 5-month-old cow kitten, Vexz. The adorable kitten had been working it all day for the crowd without taking a nap! He was taken in as a stray with a medical condition that has since been treated. Roseanna says, "You can't break his spirit."

Needs: Cat food and volunteers

Karma Cat + Zen Dog Rescue Society

No, Christie isn't available for adoption, but I was so excited that she was wearing the rhinestone studded cat ears I posted about on Catster, I nearly forgot to ask her about the adorable group of "fairy kittens" she brought along (Glimmer, Rumble, Periwinkle, and Tinkerbell). You can check out one of the sweet babies peeking out of the cage in the background, though!

Needs: Foster homes and wet cat food

Whiskers Rescue Inc. - Feral Cat Trap Neuter Return

Robyn's motto is "you feed you breed" and believes that fixing feral cats is the only way to solve the overpopulation problem. The group does not have a facility, and focuses primarily on TNR efforts, however they occasionally take in cats such as Camille who was rescued from Hurricane Irene (and who happily found her forever home at the event).

Featured Kitty: Sierra is two years old, and was given back after her owner was diagnosed with cancer. Her cage had a sign on it that said she is very sweet, and is a good TV companion!

Needs: Foster homes, and they accept donations of any kind of old jewelry, which they sell on eBay with 100% of the profits going to the rescue.

Check back tomorrow for part two, featuring kitties from Liberty Humane Society, Happy Paws Rescue, Lost Paws Animal Rescue, Second Chance for Animals, and TLC Rescue!

Super Cat Adoption Day Part 1: Kitty Litter Cake, Kittens & More!