Our story begins in Caracas, Venezuela as famed guitarist and vocalist Juan del Avila learned of his grandson's curiosity for the arts. As he flipped through the channels on the TV, he watched young Javier Ignacio run into the room at the sound of a symphony orchestra or a singer performing. Having already seen the same curiosity in Javier's mother, who later studied Vocal Performance in college, he knew his grandson was also destined for a life in the arts!
Many years later, and hundreds of miles from where this story began (now in Wichita, Kansas) Javier began his professional journey as an Actor, Singer, and Dancer. He attended Wichita State University focusing his studies on Musical Theatre. During the summertime, he immersed himself further into the industry by working at the acclaimed Music Theatre of Wichita. By now, the theatre bug was undeniable! There was no question that the place to achieve his dream in the arts was New York City.
Now, as a true NYC resident, Javier has worked at some of the most acclaimed regional theatres in the country; The John F. Kennedy Center, The LaJolla Playhouse, The Actors' Playhouse, and, of course, MTWichita. His multi-ethnic appearance has allowed him to dive into roles such as Mereb in Aida (MTWichita/ Mary Jane Teal Award), the Courier in 1776! (The Actors' Playhouse/ Carbonell Award Nomination), as well as the famed escapologist Harry Houdini and the lovable Dog Faced Boy in Bill Condon's revised production of Side Show on Broadway.
Side Show provided a list of unforgettable adventures; recording an Original Broadway Cast Album and performing in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade were among the top moments from this incredible journey. Since then, Javier has performed in many of NYC's prestigious venues - Feinsteins' 54Below, The Lotus Club, and The Waldorf Astoria - and he recently made his Solo Concert Debut as a part of The Queens Library Culture Connection Series. In addition, he annually participates in benefits and events such as Visible Ink, a writing program for cancer patients and survivors at Memorial Sloan Kettering.
Away from the stage, Javier continues to expand his horizons with commercial and film work adding a web spot for ARM & HAMMER: ULTRA DRY SPRAY and the short films photo-op, Grey Skies, and Synched in his list of credits. His studio work with award winning director and on-camera coach, Heidi Marshall, has been an incredible tool as he transitions into the film/ TV industry.
Finally, his other passions include: fitness, dance, yoga, music (he plays the viola), his fantastic family and his three incredible dogs (Maia, Scout, and Flint - check out his Instagram for more puppy cuteness!). Wanna know more? Don't hesitate to ask here!