The Kalgoorlie-Boulder teen entered the heats of Storm the Stage 2008, a national performing arts contest for young actors aged between 16 and 19.

At the urging of director Lisa van Oyen and fellow cast members from this year's Goldfields Repertory Club production of “Little Shop of Horrors”, Mr Canny entered the Musical Theatre category, performing his hit solo number, “Dentist!” from the show.

Heats were held this month at community theatres in Innaloo, South Perth and Melville with each performer asked to present a monologue in either drama or musical theatre not exceeding five minutes.

A chilly crisp night which eventually dipped to 0.7 degrees greeted the contestants, however they were warmed by the 60-plus people in the audience.

Julian said he was a bit nervous as it had been some time since performing the role of mad dentist Orin Scrivello on stage in May, but he was buoyed by Kalgoorlie friends now residing in Perth who came along to show their support.

When asked on stage whether he sees a professional future for himself as an actor, Julian replied: “I love theatre, I love performing, but I simply do it because I love it.”

Julian also had an opportunity to speak up for Kalgoorlie when the MC commented sarcastically that he was probably used to performing to only small crowds in his home town.

“No actually, I am used to a much bigger audience,” he replied.

Although Julian was not a finalist during the heat, there is still hope of him being delivered a wild card to go through to the semi finals.

Storm the Stage is sponsored nationally by the International Foundation for Arts and Culture (IFAC) and is an initiative of the Rotary Club of Cannington WA Inc.