Missy Higgins will return to Australia next month to begin work on her first Australian film.

The Melbourne singer is set to join Geoffrey Rush (Shine, Candy) and Ernie Dingo in the feature film adaptation of the musical, Brand New Dae.

The film will be directed by Rachel Perkins.

Perkins is best known for her films Radiance and musical One Night The Moon, which starred fellow Aussie musician Paul Kelly.

Set in the summer of 1967, Brand New Dae will see Higgins play the character of Annie alongside Rush as Father Benedictus, Dingo as Tadpole and Dan Sultan as Lester.

Filming begins in Broome later this week with Higgins joining the set in early November.

Higgins is familiar with the Western Australian region having relocated to Broome last year to write her latest album, On A Clear Night.

“Broome holds a special place in my heart so this opportunity felt like something I just couldn’t pass up on,” Higgins said.

“I fell in love with all the characters when I read the script, ecspecially my character (Annie) who is a hilarious hippie. Being my first go at acting I’m a bit terrified but I feel very honoured to be working alongside such an incredible cast and crew and I know it’s gonna be a lot of fun.”

Higgins has spent much of 2008 based in the US touring in support of her latest album.

On A Clear Night is due for release in the US in February 2009.

It is not yet known when Brand New Dae will be released to cinemas.

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