Story last updated at 2:03 a.m. Friday, January 28, 2005

Broadway producer to visit Shawnee for free lecture Saturday at dance studio

Peter Sklar

Peter Sklar, a Broadway producer who has coached, directed or discovered several stars, will be in Shawnee this weekend for a lecture titled "Young Dreams... Fears, Hopes and Fantasies of Fame."

Sklar's presentation will begin at 7 p.m. Saturday at Pointe and Clicke Dance Academy, 1202 N. Harrison, Suite F.

Sklar has worked with such artists as Rick Schroder, Sarah Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon, Mischa Barton and numerous others.

His talk will provide insights into the relationship between self-esteem, health and professional success, with a behind-the-scenes look at the causes of eating disorders, stage mothers, industry scams, and the role of talent agents and casting directors.

Sklar, who earned a master's degree from Harvard University, is the producer of the upcoming musical "The Kid Who Played the Palace." He is considered an expert in the field of child development and the entertainment industry. In 1984, he founded the Beginnings Workshop in upstate New York. His publication, "Winning Monologues from the Beginnings Workshop," is used in many high school and college theater departments, as well as a resource for talent agencies and casting directors.

Saturday's presentation is free, but reservations are required by calling 273-7475. Children under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent. No one under age 6 will be admitted.

While in Oklahoma, Sklar also will give lectures at Oklahoma City University Performing Arts Academy, 2501 N. Blackwelder (6:30 p.m. today); Dance Innovations, 1112 N. Rockwell, Oklahoma City (1 p.m. Saturday); and Classical Ballet Academy, 2433 Wilcox Drive, Norman (1:30 p.m. Sunday).