Today we’d like to introduce you to Javy Pagan.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have been an artist for as long as I can remember. From an early age, I was always creating in some form—daydreaming about magical worlds, writing stories, drawing and coloring, and, most notably, singing and acting. I began performing on stage at the age of seven, first in school and church productions, then in local talent shows, touring and recording groups, and as a fill-in vocalist with local bands. Along the way, I was a semi-finalist on Season 12 of American Idol and ultimately found a professional home in regional musical theatre.
I have always identified as a singer first and never anticipated the level of commitment I would develop for acting. As the oldest grandchild, a first-generation English speaker, and a first-generation college graduate, pursuing a degree in the performing arts felt out of reach at the time. Instead, I earned a degree in communications with a concentration in public relations and event planning. During my undergraduate years, I sang nearly full time on scholarship as part of an admissions office singing and recording group focused on student recruitment. These four years were formative: they helped me develop my personal sound, train my voice for sustained professional use, and understand the discipline, teamwork, and logistics required to take a full production on the road.
After graduating, those experiences led me to audition for local professional theatres and secure my first long-term paid theatre role in a touring educational production for young audiences, A Duck Called Ugly. Following three successful seasons in the Upstate of South Carolina, I relocated to the West Coast, where I spent two years in the Los Angeles area performing in three professional productions: The Wizard of Oz, A Sherlock Holmes Play, and an original adaptation of Robin Hood for young audiences.
When love and marriage brought me back east, I transitioned into nonprofit arts administration. Since 2017, I have worked in the Upstate of South Carolina as a fundraiser, communications manager, marketing manager, community engagement manager, and programmer—supporting organizations in raising critical funds, expanding community programming, and increasing access to the arts.
These experiences have led me to begin consulting with nonprofit organizations, helping them develop intentional, compelling communications strategies that attract essential funding, strengthen community connections, and advance their missions.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Working as a freelance artist comes with inherent challenges. When paired with a full-time role in nonprofit communications, time becomes my most valuable resource. Actors are almost always in audition mode—preparing for upcoming seasons of opportunities while simultaneously learning scripts, music, and choreography for current productions.
I also live with an autoimmune rheumatological condition called Ankylosing Spondylitis, which affects my hips, spine, ribs, and other joints. Managing chronic illness while remaining an active dancer and actor requires attentiveness to my body, flexibility, and grace with my physical limitations on any given day. I am deeply grateful to have worked with directors and producers who are understanding and supportive when my health requires accommodation.
Additionally, I navigate the ever-changing funding landscape facing nonprofit organizations. As both a fundraiser and an artist, I am consistently engaged in conversations with funders, donors, and organizational leadership about investing in revenue-generating initiatives while also securing the financial support necessary to sustain operations and deliver vital community programs.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
No one else is me—and that is the unique strength behind my work as an artist. Raised in the South and trained under gospel singers, I learned to sing in the church and developed a deep love for music that blends country, soul, and rock influences. My voice has been described as textured, smooth, incredibly versatile, and commanding.
I have had the privilege of performing in productions spanning multiple eras of musical theatre, from Golden Age classics such as Annie Get Your Gun, to large-scale productions like Les Misérables and Jesus Christ Superstar, to contemporary, dance-driven and pop-infused shows including Mamma Mia!, All Shook Up, Sister Act, Dreamgirls, Something Rotten!, In the Heights, Jersey Boys, and more.
I have found a particular niche portraying two distinct character types: the warm, charismatic presence with a powerful voice and high-energy number, and the menacing villain anchored by a dynamic, rock-influenced song.
Some of my favorite roles include Audrey II, the bloodthirsty plant in Little Shop of Horrors; Zoser, the villainous Egyptian priest in Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida; and the flirtatious Minstrel who opens both Act I and Act II in Something Rotten!.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I work with a trusted therapist and strongly believe that everyone can benefit from having dedicated support to help process the complexities of being human in today’s world.
Beyond that, I am intentional about engaging with inspiring and uplifting voices on social media, including Johnny Sibilly, Broadway Husbands, and A Guy & A Golden—accounts that serve as reminders of what truly matters.
I also place great value on regularly connecting with the natural world. Walking, hiking, gardening, and spending time outdoors are essential practices that help ground me and restore balance.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @javythecreator2
