New York producer and talent scout Peter Sklar will be hosting a free public lecture at Fabulous Feet School of Dance.
Sklar has worked with many performers, including Reese Witherspoon, Sara Jessica Parker, Mischa Barton and Lori Loughlin.
He also works with many current and former Broadway, television and film actors, singers and dancers.
His lecture, called The Sklar Principle, will explain how self-image and health are the most important qualities when it comes to success in any industry, whether it be in the arts or not.
He says that those two qualities outweigh looks, training, connections and talent, and they apply universally to any career.
Sklar contends that there has been a rise in self-destructive behaviour, such as smoking, drinking, drugs and eating disorders among teens, who seem happy with good grades, good behaviour and outward signs of stability.
But, he says, these are usually the most unhappy, unhealthy and least employable people.
Sklar has a masters degree in education from Harvard University, formal concert piano training at the Julliard School of Music and four decades of professional experience.
He is currently working on an original musical based on his experiences called The Kid Who Played the Palace, to be directed by William Martin, the recipient of five Tony Award nominations.
The Sklar Principle is a free public event and is open to teenagers, young adults, older children and parents. Nobody under the age of seven will be admitted and those under 18 must attend with a parent. Reservations are required.
• The lecture takes place at 7 p.m. on Feb. 17 at Fabulous Feet School of Dance, 22826 Dewdney Trunk Road, Unit 3, in Maple Ridge.
For reservations call 604-467-9846. For more information, go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Sklar www.thesklarprinciple.com.