Wiser beyond his years - Raj Labade, one of the most prominent rising stars on Australian stage and screen, is well aware of how lucky he's been with his acting career. Currently starring in the world premiere of Joanna Murray-Smith's adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's The Talented Mr Ripley at Sydney Theatre Company, he talks to Suzy Wrong about Eurocentric drama school and having Nicholas Brown as his industry big brother.

Raj is part of the ensemble of the Australian remake of the hit tv show The Office. His other career highlights include the lead role in Nicholas Brown's award-winning play Sex Magick and his Melbourne Theatre Company debut in a musical My Brilliant Career which is returning next season.