2016 FEARLESS ICON Finalists Ready for Weekend Grand Prize

Those in attendance at the Union County Performing Arts Center on November 27 bore witness to an astounding musical experience.

The "Sweet Sixteen" semifinalists laid it all on the line to a generous and enthusiastic audience. In the end, each judge made the tough decision and assumed the role of mentor for their selection and the audience voted their own champion to round out the "Final Five."

Khy Garner drew the hot seat with the first pick. He "went with his gut" and chose returning 2015 semifinalist Timothy Walton. Timothy had a backstage fan club with his performance. His tenor high notes will be a powerful presence in the finals.

Elizabeth Ward Land, a new edition to the mentor crew and celebrity judge from Elimination Round 1 seemed pensive but sure when she chose Kyle Javon as the second finalist. Kyle's deep rich tones filled the 1334-seat theater. He too will be a force to be reckoned with on December 11.

In his third year at the wheel, Patrick Starega chose Craig Tiede to join the stellar crew. Craig was an Audience Save in his elimination round and proved the worth of the popular votE. Craig carried a stoic intensity and strong emotional quality throughout the competition that subtlety refused to diminish. Look for him to bring something special to the stage on Icon Sunday.

Celebrity guest judge Richard Kline had the tough task of making the final selection of the remaining eligible artists. Returning 2015 Finalist Natasha Kurilew got the bid from Richard that will give her back-to-back appearances at the big show. Natasha's fierce mix of rock/theater talent proved once again to resonate well with the audience and judges alike. Her experience and talent will certainly be a contender once again.

The "Audience Save" is possibly one of the most enjoyable components of this competition. Through the majority vote of all those in attendance, Vanessa Sierra earned her rightful place as the fifth finalist. At 17 years old, Vanessa is the youngest artist to advance to the finals, but her vocals are more than capable to stand toe to toe with the field.

Fearless Music Director Bruce De La Cruz provided brilliant accompaniment for the sixteen performers on a gorgeous Fazioli Piano and the capable production team of Tim James, Bree Guell, Josh Cote and Tim Chavis sculpted a true gift for the Main Stage crowd.

The iconic third year comes to fruition on Sunday, December 11, at the UCPAC Main Stage (1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ) where the title and the Grand Prize will be awarded, which includes a $2500 cash prize courtesy of RSI Bank, and the production of the winner's dream role and show compliments of Fearless Productions and UCPAC.

Tickets are priced at $10-$15 and are still available at www.ucpac.org or by calling the box office at 732-499-8226.