Marvin’s Rescue: A Tail Wagging Musical About the Dogs Who Change Us

A Natural Partnership Rooted in Rescue

This March, the stage comes alive with barking, belting, and big hearted storytelling as Marvin’s Rescue runs March 13 through March 29 at the Ellyn Bye Theatre. This original musical comedy is a joyful, offbeat love letter to the dogs who tumble into our lives and change us forever.

For Oregon Humane, partnership with Marvin’s Rescue is a natural fit. Every day, Oregon Humane witnesses the life-changing bond between people and animals. From first meetings in shelter spaces to lifelong companionship, rescue stories unfold in ways that are funny, healing, and profoundly moving.

This collaboration celebrates that shared truth. The stories on stage mirror the stories unfolding in Oregon Humane shelters and in homes across our community. Stories of second chances. Stories of trust rebuilt. Stories of love that changes both ends of the leash.

Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, the show explores the beautiful chaos of rescue, second chances, and the unconditional love that only a dog can give.

Created by playwright and legendary musician Marv Ross, Marvin’s Rescue blends high energy music, irreverent humor, and unexpected tenderness. Ross is best known as the songwriter and co-founder of Oregon’s first platinum band, Quarterflash, whose chart topping hit “Harden My Heart” helped define an era of Pacific Northwest rock. With Marvin’s Rescue, Ross brings that same musical dynamism to the theater, crafting a story that is as funny as it is deeply human.

At its core, the musical asks a simple but powerful question. What can we learn from the dogs who come into our lives? The answer unfolds in a riotous journey of misfits, mutts, and the messy work of learning how to love and be loved.

Special Event Nights: For the Love of Dogs

The most anticipated evenings of the run are For the Love of Dogs, a series of special editions of Marvin’s Rescue created in partnership with Oregon Humane.

These celebrations are a love letter to our four legged soulmates. Audiences will enjoy the full musical, cuddle puppies on site, see their own dog’s face in a lobby display featuring submitted photos, and experience dangerously high levels of serotonin from start to finish.

20% of ticket sales from these special nights support the big hearted, life-changing work of Oregon Humane and the animals in our care.

Special Event Night Dates

  • Saturday, March 14 – 7:30 p.m. Opening Night!
  • Thursday, March 19 – 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, March 21 – 2 p.m. matinee

March 21 Talkback + Community Conversation

The March 21 Special Show also includes a post show conversation with playwright Marv Ross, joined by Kelly Bremken, veterinary social worker at Oregon Humane, and moderated by actress Susannah Mars, from the Marvin’s Rescue cast. 

Together, they will explore Marv and Rindy Ross’ journey bringing this musical to life, the emotional realities of rescue, the human-animal bond, and the real life stories that echo the heart of the show. Guests can also enjoy a special display of memorabilia from Ross’ iconic music career.

Theater, Music & Mission in One Unforgettable Experience

Whether you are a lifelong dog lover, a theater enthusiast, or someone who simply believes in the power of second chances, Marvin’s Rescue offers a one of a kind night out.