From Mildura to Moulin Rouge: Ross Chisari discusses his West End journey
In the glittering world of theatre, where dreams are pursued with unwavering passion and unyielding determination, Ross Chisari’s journey from the modest town of Mildura to the iconic Piccadilly Theatre in London’s West End is nothing short of remarkable.
A graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), Ross has amassed an impressive list of theatrical credits in his career, including West Side Story, The Drowsy Chaperone, Ghost The Musical, Man of La Mancha, Aladdin The Musical, The Rocky Horror Show, Next to Normal, Shrek the Musical, and most recently, Al DeLuca at the iconic Sydney Opera House in A Chorus Line, Blaine in the return season of Cruel Intentions, and his critically acclaimed performance as Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys.
He has previously crossed the pond, playing Eddie/Dr. Scott in the No. 1 UK tour of The Rocky Horror Show, but his return to the West End was not a straightforward one – it was marked by persistence, sacrifice, and an unshakable belief in his abilities. He made a bold move by relocating to London just four months before his dream opportunity came knocking on his door.
“I moved to London 4 months ago chasing the West End dream… I gave up a lot to do so,” he reflects. “I missed big family events, had to compromise on a lot of my free time & had to be a little bit selfish during the audition process.”
The audition process for Moulin Rouge was gruelling, with Ross facing tough competition and rejection along the way:
For the first three months of being in London, I juggled being without a roof over my head, waiting tables until the early hours of the morning, and a LOT of audition rejection. The hustle is REAL over here – but it’s all part of the journey, and I LIVE for it!
Ross’ commitment to his craft and relentless pursuit of his dream saw him through seven rounds of auditions, including flying back to Australia in between rounds to attend his brother’s wedding and returning promptly for his semi-final audition. After all his efforts, he was successful, being cast in the ensemble for the new London cast of Moulin Rouge.
Moulin Rouge has taken the West End by storm, becoming a resounding success. Full of glitz, glam, and a giant soundtrack of well-loved music, it will undeniably establish its place in musical theatre history – and Ross is thrilled to be a part of it.
“Moulin Rouge is a MAMMOTH undertaking – and to be making my West End debut in such an incredible piece of theatre makes it all worth it,” Chisari exclaims. “I am coming up to my tenth year of working professionally in the theatre industry, and I couldn’t think of a better way to achieve that milestone than to be on stage at the Piccadilly Theatre in the heart of the West End, here in London.”
Ross’ journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring performers, especially those from smaller towns and distant corners of the world. His message to those who dream of making it big in the theatre is clear:
From my hometown in rural Victoria (Mildura) to London – I literally couldn’t be further from home if I tried, so I’m pretty chuffed! If any Aussies are thinking of taking the leap… I say LEAP. The universe will catch you. Trust the timing.
You can keep up with Ross’ West End adventures by following him on Instagram
