Arts & Entertainment

'The Voice' of Stratford Competes on the National Stage

Javier Colon, a 1995 Bunnell High graduate, is one of four finalists in NBC's "The Voice," which airs its final performance tomorrow night. Residents can head down to Paradise Pizza to watch the show.

Rosemary Martin, a former theater arts teacher at Bunnell High, had no doubts that Javier Colon could sing.

And now, as the 1995 Bunnell High grad is one of four finalists on NBC’s “The Voice,” the whole country knows it.

“He has the voice of an angel,” said Martin of Colon, who will compete live for a recording contract and a $100,00 cash prize tomorrow night in the national singing competition’s final performance.

Find out what's happening in Stratfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Martin is encouraging residents to come out and watch the show, which airs at 9 p.m., at Paradise Pizza, where all of the restaurant's TVs will all be tuned to “The Voice.”

“We want people who live in Stratford to vote for our homeboy,” she said.

Find out what's happening in Stratfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“The Voice” couples international stars from the music industry with contestants vying for that all-important recording contract – and a big payday. Colon topped seven other singers under the tutelage of Maroon 5’s frontman Adam Levine, and tomorrow night faces off against three other finalists picked by Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Blake Shelton.

“Javier is as beautiful a person as he is an entertainer,” said Martin, who worked on theater productions with Colon at Bunnell High in the 1990s. “He’s compassionate, sincere, loving and dedicated to his craft.”

Though the show doesn’t start until 9 p.m., Martin recommends arriving at Paradise Pizza – located at 3610 Main St., Stratford – a half hour or so before kickoff. There’s no fee to get in. The winner of the competition will be announced Wednesday at 8 p.m.

"He deserves to win," said Martin.

Follow Colon every step of the way on his Twitter account @Javstwtr.

You can also check out his Facebook page by clicking here.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here