FORMER Galen Catholic College student Des Flanagan is set to take on his biggest role, in 'Moulin Rouge! The Musical', when it opens at Melbourne's Regent Theatre in August.

Des, who grew up in Beechworth and discovered his passion for performing while at Galen, has previously appeared in a short stint on 'Neighbours' in 2017.

He has won the lead role of lovestruck writer Christian, played by Ewan McGregor in the 'Moulin Rouge' film, and will appear in the stage production alongside Alinta Chidzey as Satine.

The 26 year old said he was lucky enough to see the show on Broadway and was struck by how immersive the entire experience was.

"It was like nothing I’d seen before," he said.

"It’s been a dream of mine to play this character, and to be able to do so in my home state is extremely special.”

Securing the most sought after stage role in the country is a significant career milestone for the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) music theatre graduate.

He has previously performed in several musicals, a highlight being Handa Opera’s West Side Story on Sydney Harbour under the direction of Francesca Zambello.

He most recently played Thomas in The Beautiful Game with Manilla Street Productions.

Other credits include Grease the Arena Experience (Harvest Rain) and The Songs of Pasek and Paul: You Will Be Found.

Screen credits include the short film Rabbits, written and directed by Riley Sugars, for which he was nominated for Best Lead Actor at Black Bird International Film Festival New York.

The Australian production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical will not only be the first international production of the musical, but due to the ongoing Broadway shutdown, Melbourne will be the only place in the world the show can be seen when performances begin in August.