Erin Leigh Peck and her mother, Allison Peck

Broadway went to the dogs last night. Erin Leigh Peck and Stray From the Heart put together a star-studded cabaret show at Upstairs at 54 to celebrate the joys of owning a dog and to raise funds for canine rescue.

Erin began the evening by explaining that dog owners are “insane” and she was clearly preaching to the choir, judging by the “oohs” and “ahs” heard every time a photo of a dog was shown on the screen.

Performers were listed in the program as “Buddy’s Mom” or “Rochester’s Dad.” They brought pictures of themselves with their pets, and made it clear who the real “masters” are in their homes.

Cheryl Stern

Alix Korey (aka “Zoe’s mom) started it off, followed by Barbara Walsh. Jamison Stern serenaded his dog, Gertie, with “One for the Road.” Heather Mac Rae told about how she adopted Buddy twelve years ago, and Mark Nadler (accompanist for the evening) explained how his love life hasn’t been the same since Boomer and Banjo came to live with him.

Rue McClanahan

Rue McClannahan broke up the musical selections by reading a story she’d written. Cheryl Stern sang about her fantasies of “Walking Cleo” versus the actual reality. John Sloman was practically in tears singing “My Romance” and “You’re My Best Boy” to Rochester.

Deborah Gibson brought the evening to a close with a few of her own songs - “My Puppy Grew” followed by a few more familiar hits, including “Lost In Your Eyes.”

The evening raised $9,000.

Jack Cummings III and wife Barbara Walsh

Stray From the Heart is a young organization dedicated to the Rescue, Rehabilitation and placement of abused and homeless animals. In the past year, they have managed to save over 250 dogs. Their volunteers rescue the dogs off the streets and out of abusive or neglectful homes. They are given medical care and love, and placed in perfect homes where they thrive. SFTH pride themselves in the ability to pair up the right dogs with the right owners ... they are like matchmakers for people and pets. SFTH is completely volunteer-staffed and donor supported. You can help by donating, volunteering, fostering a dog or adopting. Please call at (212) 726-Dogs or check the SFTH website at www.StrayfromtheHeart.org.

-- Nancy Rosati