Packed to the Rafters star Hugh Sheridan reveals he’ll be directing a semi-autobiographical film

Hugh Sheridan is known for the likes of Packed to the Rafters, The Real Dirty Dancing and Isn’t It Romantic. 

And on Saturday, the Australian actor revealed that he’ll be directing a semi-autobiographical film about young ballet dancers, called The Dance. 

The 34-year-old studied ballet throughout his childhood and said that with the film, he hopes to shed light on mental health.

‘The plot centres on a group of young ballet dancers and the trails and tribulations they face with the challenges of living away from home at such a young age and the complexity of friendship versus love,’ Hugh told The Daily Telegraph at the weekend.

He added: ‘I hope it will shine a light on mental health among young people.’

Hugh had previously attended the Australian Ballet School, but left to pursue acting. 

Speaking to Now to Love last year, Hugh candidly revealed he has struggled with mental health issues in the past. 

Growing up in Adelaide, Hugh said moving away to finish school in Melbourne was one of the hardest things he had to do.

‘I’ve had moments with myself when I was younger, living away from home,’ the actor explained.  ‘I moved away when I was only 16 to finish school in Melbourne and that was probably the hardest that I’ve ever had it.’ 

Hugh said at the time he had burning questions about his career and personal direction.  

‘When I was younger, I’d sometimes wonder where I am going and what I am doing with my life,’ he added. 

Hugh said often the best way to deal with the issues was to talk to someone.  

If you or anyone you know is struggling, contact Lifeline or Beyond Blue.