Tips about life in make-believe

George Hamilton critiques monologues and shares insights. "When it stops being fun, get out,'' he said.

[Times photos: Thomas M. Goethe] USF theater students listen to George Hamilton, who encouraged budding actors to seek the truth and have fun.

By TAMARA LUSH, Times Staff Writer
© St. Petersburg Times
published July 16, 2002

TAMPA -- Yes, actor George Hamilton really is that tan.

But he also is kind, funny and a touch philosophical.

On Monday, Hamilton was at the University of South Florida as part of Ann Reinking's Broadway Theatre Project, which brings in young performers from around the country for three weeks of classes and seminars on musical theater.

George Hamilton, 62, speaks to students Monday during a class at the University of South Florida in Tampa. He was part of Ann Reinking's Broadway Theatre Project for young performers from around the country.

The 62-year-old actor talked to students about life, theater and the art of being George Hamilton.

On being famous: "Stardom is not for everyone. It's not all that interesting."

On playing comedic roles: "The funniest people are always the ones who have the worst pain in their lives."

On acting: "Don't just give us information. Give us insight."

But above all, he said, budding actors should seek the truth and have fun.

"Find the truth in your character," said Hamilton, who starred in Where the Boys Are, Love at First Bite and most recently, Old Navy television ads. "When it stops being fun, get out," he said.

Hamilton was not the only celebrity talking to the 169 theater students. Actor Ben Vereen, New York voice teacher Joan Lader and Broadway music director David Loud were among the professionals on hand to answer students' questions and critique their monologues, songs and dance routines.

For a few lucky student actors Monday afternoon, Hamilton critiqued their prepared monologues.

Jacob Tew, a 17-year-old from Columbus, Ga., delivered his monologue, shifting from a mentally challenged child to an adult within seconds. Hamilton liked Tew's portrayal of the child, then gently suggested he loosen up on the rest.

"I started to feel acting," Hamilton said.

Hamilton -- who is known for his love of cigars, martinis and beautiful women -- was extraordinarily gracious and patient.

Folksy, even.

"Okay, if we stop in the middle, it doesn't mean it's bad or anything," Hamilton told Joseph Peterson of New Jersey, asking the acting student to deliver his piece again.

"He was very thorough and excellent," Tew said. "He really inspired all of us."

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