Talent Scout Comes To Avon High School

From Avon Local School District: Renowned New York Talent Scout Peter Sklar knows a thing or two about helping aspiring child stars achieve success. His list of protégés includes TV and film veterans Sarah Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon, Mischa Barton, as well as a wide array of current Broadway, TV, and film actors, singers and dancers.

Reality shows like American Idol and America’s Got Talent have springboarded some of the most talented kids in the nation into super stardom. But with so much available talent, what really sets one kid apart from another?

According to Sklar, any career- in or out of the arts- is about two things: self-image and health. He argues that these qualities outweigh looks, training, connections, and even talent, and apply universally.

“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 about yourself mentally or physically, you won’t open up and show us who you really are. When that happens- no matter how smart you are, or what you’ve achieved, or what you look like- we’ve already lost interest.” He sums it up: “It’s about who you are as a human being.”

In “Broadway & Beyond”, a lecture for students and their parents on Tuesday, March 27th 6:30 pm at Avon
High School in Avon, OH, Sklar will explain why his views are in sync with the needs of top New York and
Hollywood agents and casting directors, as well as college admission boards, and job interviewers in virtually all fields.

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 too often the most unhappy, unhealthy, and least employable.”

Sklar boasts an Ivy League pedigree, (Masters Degree in Education from Harvard University), formal training in concert piano, (Juilliard School of Music), and five decades of professional experience. He’s been the subject of multiple feature-length articles in the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Dallas Morning News, Kansas City Star and numerous others, 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 every major national television network.

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

“Broadway & Beyond” is open to children, teens, young adults, and parents. There is no charge for admission,
but reservations are required. Nobody under age seven (7) will be admitted with or without a parent, and students under age eighteen (18) must attend with their own mother or father.

When: Tuesday, March 27th 6:30 pm

Where: Avon High School, 37545 Detroit Road Avon, OH

Reservations: (440) 371 - 6771 or meghancvetic@gmail.com

Top image by Natnn on Shutterstock.com; flyer image courtesy of Avon Local School District