"So You Want to be a Star" at Creative Arts Guild

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September 17, 2008

Talent scout Peter Sklar gives lecture, reservations required

Anonymous The Dalton Daily Citizen Wed Sep 17, 2008, 12:51 PM EDT

Submitted by the Creative Arts Guild

Renowned New York talent scout Peter Sklar knows a thing or two about helping aspiring child stars achieve success in the arts. His list of protégés includes Sara Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon and Mischa Barton, to name a few, along with many current and former Broadway, TV and film actors, singers and dancers.

Reality shows like “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance” have springboarded some of the most talented kids in the nation into superstardom. But with so much available talent, what really sets one kid apart from another?

According to Sklar, an arts career is about two things: self-image and health. He argues that these qualities outweigh looks, training, connections and even talent.

In “So You Want to be a Star …” a free lecture for aspiring dancers, singers and actors and their parents on Sept. 30 at 6 p.m., at the Creative Arts Guild in Dalton, Sklar will explain why his views are in synch with the needs of top New York and Hollywood agents and casting directors.

“The people who sit behind the table are trying to decide two things: Do they like you, and do they believe you?” Sklar tells young audiences. “If you don’t feel good mentally and physically, you won’t open up and show us who you really are. That means you’ll be artificial. When that happens — no matter how good you are, how pretty, or who you know — we’ve already lost interest.”

Alluding to a dramatic rise in self-destructive behavior, such as smoking, drinking, drugs and eating disorders among so-called “happy” teens, Sklar marvels at how often these activities secretly co-exist with good grades, good behavior and virtually every other outward sign of stability.

“The kids I interview are the smartest and most talented — the highest achievers in the nation,” proclaims Sklar. “And they’re often the most unhappy, unhealthy and least employable.”

Sklar boasts an Ivy League pedigree, (master’s degree in education from Harvard University), and four decades of experience. He’s been the subject of multiple feature-length articles in the New York Times, appeared as a guest expert on “Donahue,” was interviewed on “E! True Hollywood Story,” and has had his work presented on the Bravo Channel, Good Morning America and dozens of other media outlets.

He’s currently developing an original musical based on his experiences entitled “The Kid Who Played the Palace,” to be directed by William Martin (Broadway’s “The Lieutenant,” recipient of five Tony Award nominations).

“So You Want to be a Star…” is open to teenagers, young adults, older children and parents. There is no charge for admission, but reservations are required. Nobody under age 6 will be admitted with or without a parent, and nobody under age 18 will be admitted without their own mother, father or legal guardian. Substitute non-legal adult guardians are not permissible.

To make reservations, call (706) 278-0168.

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"So You Want to be a Star" at Creative Arts Guild

Talent scout Peter Sklar gives lecture, reservations required

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