Stage set for actor

Actor Ross Daniels at Werribee Mansion. Picture: Marco De Luca

Footscray West actor Ross Daniels will take audience members back in time when he stars in a show at the Werribee Mansion this month.

Daniels has joined the cast of What Was That, a theatrical production set at the heritage mansion, written by Werribee actor and businesswoman Alaine Beek. Staged by Essence Productions, the performance is set in the 19th century and tells the story of the Chirnside family, who built the mansion.

Daniels plays the role of Mr Duncan, the head butler.

“Alaine, the producer, was looking for a new actor to join the team and play the character of a bossy butler with a drinking problem,” Daniels said. “Apparently my name kept coming up – I won’t take that personally.”

Daniels said there was “plenty of twists and turns” in What Was That. “It has a good blend of entertainment elements,” he said.

“It’s funny, there’s a nice amount of history tied into the story and it’s quite scary in parts too – watch out behind you!”

Daniels, who is also a comedian, has appeared in several television shows, including City Homicide, Stingers, Blue Heelers, Something in the Air, Janus and Round the Twist.

What was That is staged once a week at 8pm on either Friday or Saturday nights, at Werribee Mansion. The show is recommended for children aged 11+ due to some scary elements. Tickets: adult $42 (two for $60), child $20, concession/resident/group booking $35.

See essenceproductions.com.au/ for details.