James Bavolacco, winner of the first Barnum’s Got Talent Vocal Competition, will perform tonight (Thursday) at 6 at the Downtown Thursdays concert series at McLevy Green. James’ talent has been recognized by American Idol. News release from Barnum Festival.
The Barnum Festival is pleased to announce that the winner of the first annual “Barnum’s Got Talent Vocal Competition.” James Bavolacco, age 14, from Stratford, CT took home the highest honor and was voted “winner of the day” at the new “American Idol” attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, in Orlando, FL. James Bavolacco beat out hundreds of contestants from all over the world, age 14 to 28 in order to win his new title and the “Golden ticket” and entry to NBC’s American Idol.
This daily competition allows guests to register and audition before a producer to be cast in a theme park version of American Idol. If the producer finds talent, they’re prepped with hair, make-up and a vocal coach to perform in 1 of 5 shows, daily. Each show is in front of a panel of American Idol judges and these 15 semi-finalists perform in front of a crowded, “LIVE” audience, with voting capabilities. Those who capture the most votes at the end of day are awarded the “Golden Ticket” which gives James pre-screened, front row access to any American Idol stadium audition. The minimum age requirement to enter American Idol is age 16.
James was challenged by having to sing a new song, a requirement of American Idol Hollywood Studios, Disney. Working with a Vocal Coach who understood his range, the song selected was “I Want You Back” by the Jackson Five. James Bavolacco Sr. said, “The Barnum’s GOT TALENT Competition “experience” has built confidence within James, proving he can follow his passion, compete against others and actually win! We cannot thank The Barnum Festival enough and specifically, (Ringmaster) John F. Stafstrom, Jr. and Eileen Ferrigno for giving our son such an incredible stepping stone to pursuing his dreams.”
James Bavolacco was invited to sing at the Ringmaster’s Gala Ball for 500 guests and Governor Dannel Malloy. He then joined Javier Colon, winner of “The Voice” on a special float in The Barnum Festival’s, Great Street Parade. James went on to say “I am grateful to everyone who has supported me. This is a dream come true. I cannot thank you all, enough.”
Ringmaster Stafstrom said “Although James might have to wait to age 16 to audition for American Idol; we are thrilled he went for the gold in Disney! I am happy to announce he has been selected by committee members of “Downtown Thursdays” to participate this Thursday, August 15th in yet another competition.” Downtown Thursdays features free, weekly, live performances by local and area bands, musicians and other stage performers in a summer concert series on McLevy Green. This is organized by the City of Bridgeport and Downtown Special Services District, “DSSD.” This Thursday night, “It’s Your Night” American Idol & Webster Bank Arena present “Karaoke Talent Night” from 6pm to 8pm and James is positioned to win by already having raised over 500 votes for him, to date.
I have heard great things about this kid! Great to see him given this venue.