Talent scout to give presentation at Ruth’s Dance

Renowned New York Talent Scout Peter Sklar knows a thing or two about helping aspiring child stars achieve success. His list of prot g s includes Sarah 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 spring boarded some of the most talented children in the nation into super stardom. But with so much available talent, what really sets one child 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 “Getting Started in the Arts” a free lecture for aspiring teen dancers, singers and actors, and their parents on Oct. 12 at 2 p.m. at Ruth’s Dance & Fitness Company in Youngstown, 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. When that happens – no matter how good you are, how pretty, or who you know – we’ve already lost interest.”

Sklar boasts an Ivy League pedigree (Masters 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, was interviewed on E! True Hollywood Story, appeared as a guest expert on Donahue, 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, titled “The Kid Who Played the Palace,” to be directed by William Martin.

“Getting Started in the Arts” is open to teenagers, young adults, older children and parents. There is no charge for admission, but reservations are strictly required. Nobody under age 7 will be admitted with or without a parent, and nobody under age 18 will be admitted without their own mother or father. Note carefully that a substitute temporary guardian, such as a friend’s parent, will not be permissible. Reservations can be made by calling 330-782-6785.