Feb 23rd, 2019

Feb 23rd, 2019

South Sydney Rabbitohs star George Burgess revealed his love of theatre, making his acting debut in a play for the Short + Sweet Festival.

Burgess is playing the leading role of Prince Edward in the play 'Not So Enchanted ' at the Tom Mann Theatre in Surry Hills, and Nine News Sydney was there to capture some highlights from the show.

"A couple of the boys are here tonight, so it's good to have their support. They're all laughing and joking at me," Burgess told Nine News.

As Burgess' future at South Sydney remains uncertain after November 2019 when he comes off contract, the Englishman is trying to focus on some other activities outside of footy.

George Burgess performs on stage (Nine News)

"There's a lot to acting that people don't know about, and learning your craft. If I want to do it after football I want to be good at it," Burgess said.

"I always loved doing school plays and I always had a creative side but I never pursued it properly. I think I was always a bit embarrassed and a bit nervous to do so. "

Burgess said his off-field interests have been encouraged by new Souths coach Wayne Bennett and Hollywood star co-owner Russell Crowe.

"He [Crowe] always encourages me to do anything like this. He always encouraged me to do my singing and get lessons," Burgess said.

"Wayne's big on having interests outside of football too and he wants to make sure players are not totally consumed by playing, so for me, it's just a great escape."