On September 7, 2016, at the Bomb Factory in Dallas, Peter Cwalino will take the stage for Chords for Causes, A Lip Sync Benefit. The 2nd annual fundraiser hosted by the DFW Chapter of the National Association for Catering and Events will benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation of North Texas and the DFW NACE’s educational programming.
Befittingly, Cwalino, a veteran of the hospitality industry has chosen to lip sync to David Bowie for the event. What makes the impending performance so captivating is the strong resemblance that he shares with the late icon.
For years he has been told that he looks like the singer, but it wasn’t until his untimely passing that Cwalino began to get to know the entertainer more intimately. Drawing inspiration from his creativity and love of art, he slowly began to grow in his connection to Bowie.
Not sharing or even giving the slightest hint of the song he will be singing for the benefit, one thing is certain; it will be a night where dreams will come true!
What is your professional background? I have been in the hospitality industry for 30+ years and love to sell the dream. I am currently selling sleeping and meeting rooms to the corporate market in Downtown Dallas, Texas.
In the past you were a professional ballet dancer, how do you think that experience has helped your artistic expression now? I was Peter Pan in 2nd grade, learned to Square Dance with my mother at 14 years old and I spent 7 years training in classical ballet and 10 years in ballroom dancing. I have been on stage with Mikhail Baryshnikov’s production of Cinderella at The Kennedy Center. The time spent training and around incredible talent allows me to express my artistic expression in Art, Food and Fun!
Besides bearing a resemblance, what is your connection with David Bowie? I never met David Bowie, but since his passing the sadness, heart break, and as many Bowie fans feel deep lost in the world of entertainment. However, it’s an incredible journey to read, listen and get to know David Bowie more each day. I am here to embrace the image of Peter Cwalino and similarities to David Bowie and after hearing my Uncle talk about the Cwalino family moving to England after World War II going to school in Brixton, England where David Bowie was born feel connected in a six degrees of separation.
Tell us about your first experience being mistaken for David Bowie. For over 40 years, I have been told, asked and do you know who you look like….as always I have embraced the resemblance to an amazing songwriter, musician, artist, entertainer, actor, son, father, husband, friend, and so many more words to describe an incredible person. There is and was only one David Bowie and as individuals we are only one person that might share similar thoughts, ideas, and beliefs.
Anyway, the journey has begun and this page is to share some common thoughts, inspirations, connections and as I have been told many times a day….you look like David Bowie.
What is your favorite genre of music? I have always enjoyed listening to Elvis Presley, Tom Jones and bands such as Fleetwood Mac, Nazareth, and Led Zeppelin growing up and now it’s more Electronica acts such as Robert Delong and my son Tesh Cwalino.
Favorite song? My favorite song is Heroes and my 2nd is Absolute Beginners by David Bowie
Upcoming projects? I am currently working on performing (lip sync) three Bowie songs for NACE: Chords for Causes September 7, 2016 at the Bomb Factory, This is their 2nd year and the goal is to raise over $50,000 for Make- A- Wish Foundation.
You did a series of photographs in tribute to Bowie, how were they received? I did two David Bowie Tributes after his passing. The first one received very positive feedback and was a joy to work with Shade DuBois, Jason Ross and Dianna Pietra. Everyone came together to make it happen to give a Tribute to the late David Bowie.
The second shoot received some backlash and the David Bowie: Face of Reality page were very much supportive, however I didn’t feel it was worth seeing the negative comments from people I don’t know. I am Peter Cwalino that folks either see a David Bowie resemblance or just want to take a picture for their family and friends.
How does it feel to look like someone as iconic as Bowie? It’s been surreal and to have a one of my son’s friends send me a picture of the Wendy Williams Show with my picture next to the late David Bowie and audience reaction was very positive and Wendy herself saying, “ that is so close it’s scary” was very positive.
Do you have a mantra you live by? Art, Food and Fun….I am at a stage in my life to enjoy all types of art, love to cook and of course have fun whatever you are doing. 25 years ago, I worked for Trammell Crow and was Captain of the “Fun” committee to plan employee events. Be kind and respectful to people, be loving to family and friends and be yourself!
If you could meet Bowie what would you say to him? I always wanted to say in a British accent…David, have you ever been told you look like this guy Peter from Dallas, Texas??? I am sure he would say….
For additional information or to purchase tickets please visit: http://www.cvent.com/d/gvqjmb/1Q
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