Scott J. Campbell (Tunny), Van Hughes (Johnny) and Jake Epstein (Will) in “American Idiot.” (Courtesy of AT&T PAC)

It’s not everyday that a Canadian television star plays an “American Idiot,” but at the AT&T Performing Arts Center’s newest show of the same name, former Degrassi star Jake Epstein tackles one of the three lead roles in the Green Day themed musical.

For Epstein, its a chance to play out a dream he has had since he was 12 years old.

“Green Day was actually the first concert I ever went to,” Epstein said.

Epstein isn’t a stranger to musical theater, or music as a whole.

As a teenager, Eperstein played in numerous bands with his friends.

“I could list them all but that would take all afternoon,” Eperstein said.

In “American Idiot,” Eperstein plays Will.

As Eperstein describes it, Will is “a stoner, slacker type” that finds out life-changing news in the show’s second number “Jesus of Suburbia.”

“‘Jesus of Suburbia’ is one of my favorite numbers in the show,” Eperstein said. “It’s so loud and in your face but it also is essential in moving the story along. A lot happens in that number.”

The performer claims that “American Idiot” is equal parts political statement and rock-musical.

“There are huge political undertones in the musical,” Epstein said. “Green Day’s music is sort of like that…it’s good to listen to but it also has a serious side.”

As part of the show, Epstein tours across America with the cast members. While the actor admits that the traveling can be a little rough, Epstein says that the cast is incredibly close.

“Honestly, doing this show was the most fun I’ve ever had on stage,” Epstein said.

“American Idiot” runs at the Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center May 8 through May 20.