On stage, Christopher Stollery has portrayed award- winning Shakespeare characters, a murderer and now a gambling fiend.

Off stage he has made appearances on popular drama shows All Saints, Water Rats and Sea Patrol, and more recently made an appearance in Packed To The Rafters.

Despite big roles on his resume, Stollery said he enjoyed touring and performing in regional centres.

"I have worked in Tasmania a few times, but this will be my first time in Launceston. I love working in Hobart, it is unlike anywhere else in Australia," Mr Stollery said.

He was awarded the 2009 Sydney Theatre Award for best supporting actor for his performance in Killer Joe.

Dealer's Choice is the award- winning comedy by Golden Globe and Oscar nominee, Patrick Marber, famous for writing the hit films Closer and Notes On A Scandal.

Mr Stollery plays the character Ash, an enigmatic stranger who joins in on card night at a quiet restaurant after closing.

"He is an intense and benevolent character and befriends the son of the restaurant owner who is terribly in debt."

Reviews from around Australia have praised Mr Stollery's performance.