FROM the auditions at the first Australian Idol in 2003 to taking the lead in national stage musicals, Rob Mills has had an impressive career.
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Millsy, as he is affectionately known, shows no sign of slowing down and is currently performing as Jesus in The Production Company’s current run of Jesus Christ Superstar before heading to Bendigo on September 5.
His Bendigo show – Puttin’ on the Ritz – featuring the Mills singing the music of Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and George Gershwin.
“I haven’t stopped into Bendigo for a little while. I think I have like second or third cousins that live there still,’ he said.
“Over the years I have been spoiled by playing at big venues but I missed the regional tours. So I’m looking forward to the tour. The last time I performed in Bendigo was when I was for my album in 2004, when I played at a night club.”
Mills will be far from nightclubs in September with the all-singing, all-dancing celebration heading to Ulumbarra Theatre.
It includes popular songs Cheek to Cheek, Alexander’s Rag Time Band, Birth of the Blues, Swanee, and Puttin’ On The Ritz.
“It's going to be an incredible show. The songs are timeless and considered classics for a reason,” he said.
“If you’re a lover of old films and a lover of dance and classic music then this show is for you.”
Mills will begin rehearsing the show after the three week run of Jesus Christ Superstar ends.
“I’m really looking forward to watching all the dancing. I’m not a dancer but we have all walk the streets at night after a few beers and had a little shuffle under the street lamp. But I mainly leave it to the professionals,’ he said.
“After (Jesus Christ Superstar) I had a week off, then I’ll spend a few weeks learning all the songs and preparing for the tour.
“I also did four months on Neighbours then went straight into Jesus. Then I have this tour and play in Brisbane. Then maybe a little holiday.”
Mills said at age 21 when he auditioned for Australian Idol he had no idea what his dreams of aspirations were.
“I didn’t know what I wanted to eat for breakfast. I wasn’t a dreams or aspiration type of kid. I was just in it for the ride,” he said.
“A few years after the hype I was back to where was before, which was singing at pubs but with a notoriety.
“Then I went overseas, saw shows on the West End and fell in love with musical shows and came back with that goal to do musicals. I had a real passion for it and was lucky enough to get into a couple of great roles.”
Rob Mills is at Ulumbarra Theatre on September 5. For tickets head to www.thecapital.com.au/Whats_On