Jot down the name Ruben Mietzel in your little black book.
Chances are he could become Australia’s next Chris Hemsworth, Heath Ledger or Hugh Jackman.
Local audiences will have the chance to see the Merewether Public School student in action when he takes the stage in Star Struck 2024 at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre this month.
The 10-year-old thespian, who recently made his mark in The Jungle Book at the Civic Playhouse in April, is set to tread the boards for the first time in the annual performing arts extravaganza.
“I’m really excited,” Ruben said.
“It’s my Star Struck debut, so I am a tiny bit nervous.
“But, mostly, I’m looking forward to it.
“I’ve watched it before a few times with my school.
“However, I’ve never performed in an arena like the entertainment centre.”
Ruben is embracing the fact he’s one of the leads for two pieces, We Don’t Talk About Bruno and How Do I Say Goodbye?
“I’m sure the second item will move a lot of people,” he said.
“It’s quite dramatic.
“But, it’ll be a good experience for me.
“It is a great stepping stone if I want to pursue acting down the track.
“Who knows, I might be on Neighbours or Home and Away one day,” he added with a grin.
“That would be a very big thing for me to do.
“It’s possible, I have very much enjoyed my drama opportunities so far.”
As a member of Hunter Drama, Ruben played the main character Mowgli – who grows up believing he’s as fierce as a wolf, even though he’s a human – in The Jungle Book.
“That was about a month ago, however I really enjoyed it,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“Although, I never expected to play the lead.
“It was my first major level of production, too, so I was very shocked to get the role of Mowgli.
“However, it’s just really given me a lot of inspiration to spurt out into all the drama opportunities out there.”
So, has he been rehearsing day and night for his latest acting gig?
“Not really,” Ruben admitted.
“It’s more like you have one big day of practice.
“But, maybe you do two lots and for a long time.
“It’s been fun meeting plenty of new friends, learning different things and all that.
“I hope I don’t make any mistakes on stage, that wouldn’t be very good.
“I’m pretty confident I’ll be okay.”
Star Struck will take place over two days, with Cast A appearing at 11am on Friday 14 June and 7pm on Saturday 15 June.
Cast B steps up from 7pm (on Friday) and 1pm (on Saturday).
“Go see it, you’ll really enjoy it,” Ruben said.
For more entertainment stories:
- Star Struck 2024: Stalwart Lilly Mitchelhill takes her final bow
- Star Struck 2024: Co-founder John Deacon’s heart still swells with pride
- Star Struck 2024: Young talent continues to amaze Casey Smith
- Star Struck 2024: It’s time to ‘Love it’
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