By Alesha Capone
Young performer Ben Belsey has been given a golden opportunity to star on stage.
The 10 year-old from Point Cook is one of five boys selected to play the role of Charlie Bucket in the upcoming Melbourne production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which will open at Her Majesty’s Theatre next month.
Ben said he felt “pretty excited” to land the role after the audition process, which included multiple callbacks.
“It was my first audition for a professional production, so I didn’t think I’d get it because I didn’t have the experience,” he said.
Ben said he had been enjoying rehearsals for the show.
“I’ve enjoyed figuring out how professional shows work and how the magic happens,” he said.
“I’m going to enjoy performing in front of lots and lots of people.”
Ben said his family had been helping him to learn his lines for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
“They have been giving me lots of good advice such as, ‘Don’t be nervous,’ and, ‘Give it your all’,” he said.
Ben said that his ultimate career ambition was to perform on Broadway.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will open on August 9, with shows Wednesday to Saturday. Tickets: from $59.90. Bookings: charliethemusical.com.au, ticketek.com.au or call 1300 364 001.
