Former ‘Fame’ star showcases students’ talents

By Delen Goldberg

Thursday, July 14, 2011 | 2 a.m.

Billy Hufsey knows a thing or two about show business.

The singer-dancer-actor became a minor television sensation in the mid-1980s, starring in the performing arts drama “Fame,” then graduated to a three-year role on “Days of Our Lives.” But like most actors, the highs were followed by lows. Hufsey’s career stalled. He moved to Las Vegas and became a banker.

Hufsey’s back in the business now, this time behind the scenes. He hopes to use his experience to further the career of young protégés, if not in acting, then in life. Hufsey runs an eponymous performing arts school in Las Vegas where he teaches students singing, dancing, acting and, most importantly, confidence.

“They don’t have to all be superstars, but I want to give them the confidence to be who they are,” he said. “They say the second-most feared thing in life is public speaking. The most-feared thing is public singing. But if they can say, ‘I sang in front of 300 people,’ it gives them the ability to go out there and say I can be a doctor or an attorney.”

Hufsey’s wards will show off their skills during a performing arts showcase Saturday evening at the Silvestri Studio, 4061 Silvestri Lane. Las Vegas is full of talented youth, but much of it is untapped, Hufsey said. His school offers green performers a place to get used to a stage.

As a special treat, Hufsey invited James Maslow, star of Nickelodeon’s “Big Time Rush,” to speak to the kids after performing. Maslow has studied under Hufsey for almost 10 years and is now a bona fide international singing and acting star. He arrives in Vegas after headlining a European concert tour. He’ll also celebrate his 21st birthday here.

“He’s going to come into the studio and give a few words of encouragement,” Hufsey said.

It’s an opportunity Hufsey said he wishes he had as a child. A natural athlete, Hufsey was a late bloomer in show business. He stumbled into dancing and acting after a hyperextended elbow sidelined his dream of becoming a professional boxer. He credits his Hollywood success to a strong work ethic, which he wants to instill in his students.

“I’m kind of a religious cat,” Hufsey said. “I believe when I meet my maker, he’s not going to say, ‘What color was your Mercedes?’ He’s going to ask what did you do in life? I’m helping young kids live their dream.”