Enjoy “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” under the stars: Meet dog star, trainer, producers – The Riviera Country Club, Los Angeles on September 28th

The Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles was the site of our first Hachi: A Dog’s Tale screening.

On this festive night, guests enjoyed Japanese bento picnic dinners while viewing the Hachi movie from two large screens. Of course, dogs were welcome and they had lots of fun too!

Hachi animal trainer David Allsberry brought Layla to greet everyone after the screening. After working with the Akita star, David adopted the lovable Layla. Known for her affectionate nature, Layla kissed her way into everyone’s hearts on the set, the screen and at the screening.

Executive producer Paul Mason and I answered questions from the audience. I’m crazy about animals, so while I’m quite shy in front of a crowd — talking about Hachi is second nature. It goes to show that doing what you love…is easy!

After the film, guests lined up for pictures with the friendly dog star. Known as the “kissing bandit,” we used Layla in scenes that required a warm and fuzzy personality. A natural with people, the female Akita charmed her way into everyone’s hearts! I don’t think anyone left without a photo taken with the beloved star.

We owe a big thank you to those who made this Hachi movie screening possible — Doug Urber, president, and Nancy Hiromoto, past chairman, of the Japan America Society. Many thanks for their terrific support of “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale”.

The evening was sheer perfection with the delicious Japanese dinner, enthusiastic guests, and happy dogs. Watching Hachi: A Dog’s Tale under the stars added to the captivating evening.