Mitchell Butel became interested in theatre as a child after seeing the musical Song and Dance and later The Little Shop of Horrors. He attended the University of New South Wales and studied for a degree in Arts/Law, majoring in Theatre Studies. He was destined for a career telling stories and has contributed markedly as a creative, on and off the stage, around Australia.With an extensive career in theatre, film and television, Butel is one of Australia's most prolific acting talents. From Shakespeare, Moliere, Williamson and O'Neill to musicals such as Avenue Q, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and The Mikado, to AFI-nominated feature film and TV performances, he has excelled.Butel's writing credits include Excellent Adventure and Killing Time and he wrote additional material for Meow Meow's Little Match Girl, Belvoir Street Theatre's production of The Government Inspector and Opera Australia's production of The Mikado.His directing credits include Violet at the Hayes Theatre, Spring Awakening for Australian Theatre For Young People, Porgy and Bess, Funny Girl and The Bernstein Songbook for the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and Candide for the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs.Butel co-directed An Act of God for the Darlinghurst Theatre Company and directed the Australian premiere of Jordan Harrison's play, Marjorie Prime. Productions of Mary Rachel Brown's Dead Cat Bounce for Griffin Theatre and Tony Kushner and Jeanine Tesori's Caroline Or Change for the Hayes Theatre have followed.In 2019 he was appointed Artistic Director of the State Theatre Company South Australia, launching his first program in 2020. His extensive experience as a versatile creative have equipped him well as he has steered the company through the challenges of the past year. Mitchell is passionate about his craft and making theatre. He is a super conversationalist and a delight to welcome to the STAGES podcast.The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au