Local lands role in narnia movie

Kylie Triggell | 12th September 2009

FOR David Vallon, going to work is a slightly different experience than it is for most people.

The Springfield Lakes-based actor has been performing since he was a child, but most recently has been cast in the upcoming third instalment of the Narnia series, Voyage of the Dawn Treader, which is currently being filmed on Brisbane's bayside.

“I am Governor Gumpas who is the Governor of the Lone Islands,” he said.

“He is corrupt. Most, if not all, of the people who arrive (on the island) end up being sold into slavery.

“Of course the heroes get caught up in it and Gumpas, being the baddie, gets his just desserts in the end. It's a small role, but key to the story line.”

While Mr Vallon wasn't able to talk in detail about his role or experiences on the set while filming is under way, he said he had jumped at the chance of working with director, Michael Apted.

“He directed Gorillas in the Mist which is one of my all time favourite movies,” he said.

“He is so easy to work with.”

Mr Vallon began his career in 1956 in musical theatre in London, including six shows on West End before eventually making the move to Australia.

“I came here on a six-month trial and never left,” he said.

Since making the move, Mr Vallon has appeared in countless television shows, and has also had roles in the first Scooby-Doo movie as well as The Proposition.

But despite working continuously over the past 53 years, Mr Vallon said he would never consider retiring.

“Actors just like acting. It's wonderful to be able to hide one's self behind a persona of someone else,” he said.