More than 1,000 people registered for their chance to snare a role in the upcoming production of BEN HUR – The Stadium Spectacular at ANZ Stadium.

But only one had the 1950s movie of the same name on his resume.

Giulio Pezzutti was just 19 years old when he was an extra in the 11-time Academy Award winning film Ben Hur, starring Charlton Heston.

Now 75, the Fairfield West resident has landed a role in BEN HUR at ANZ Stadium.

Registrations flooded in following the announcement BEN HUR producers would offer 15 paid roles in the $15 million production to members of the public.

About half of the 1000 applicants were invited to the auditions held at ANZ Stadium and Giulio was one of three selected on the day.

The remaining 12 are still to be named.

BEN HUR – The Stadium Spectacular executive producer Andrew Guild said: “It was wonderful to get such a huge response from the public.

“From the excitement at the auditions, it was quite obvious there is huge excitement surrounding this show.

“People just want to be a part of something big and, as we know, there’s not much that’s bigger than Ben Hur.

“Giulio really impressed us at the auditions and with his experience on the movie I know he’ll be a very special addition to the cast.”

Narrated by Academy Award winner Russell Crowe, BEN HUR – The Stadium Spectacular will be the biggest theatrical event ever seen in Australia.

BEN HUR will show at ANZ Stadium on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 October.

Tickets are available through Ticketek. Visit www.ticketek.com.au or call 132 849.

For more information, visit www.benhur.com.au