Hollywood superstar offers charities chance to get sneak preview of new show

Xinhua

text

Hollywood superstar Hugh Jackman has given some Melbourne charities the chance to get a sneak preview of his new Broadway to Oz show, throwing open the doors to his dress rehearsal at Rod Laver Arena on Monday night.

The Australian actor, Academy Awards host and Tony Award winner for his role in "The Boy from Oz" on Broadway, said he was delighted to be able to bring some joy to people in need, which included foster families and charity workers.

"I'm thrilled I could do it," Jackman said on Tuesday.

"It's not meant to be a heavy night. It's meant to be a night of celebration and fun."

The actor said he followed the lead of U.S. talk show host Jay Leno, who performed free comedy shows during the global financial crisis.

The multi-million dollar arena production of Broadway to Oz showcases some of Jackman's greatest successes, incorporating songs from Les Miserables and The Boy from Oz, and also includes a tribute to his role as Wolverine.

The show opens on Tuesday night before travelling around Australia over the next few weeks.