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About Us

What if a foundation in dance could set the stage for a lifetime of success?

At the award-winning Dance Academy of Virginia, it does.

Opening its doors as the world closed down, DAV was brought to

life out of a deep desire to celebrate the love of dance in a vibrant

community while developing the next generation of performers

and leaders—even during an uncertain and challenging time.

It has proudly accomplished that and so much more. And it’s only

just beginning.

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DAV was created for human connection and empowering

students to believe in their unique potential through dance

education. Its warm, welcoming atmosphere offers a safe space

for holistically supporting students—body, mind, and

heart—while maintaining a commitment to excellence in artistic

and technical development. Its students create lasting

friendships, gain confidence through self-achievement and

positive motivation, practice commitment and perseverance, and

learn how to express themselves authentically in and out of the

dance studio. The skills learned in the studio translate far beyond

its walls. More than just dance, DAV teaches lessons for life.

Photo © Tony Powell. Katherine Horrigan 2024. May 21, 2024-24 (2) (1).jpg

About the Founder/CEO

Previously a professional dancer herself, founder and director

Katherine Horrigan believes this implicitly. She and her faculty of

esteemed dance professionals, teachers, and choreographers are

committed to cultivating their students as both dancers and

individuals. Leading by example, they instill values of integrity,

discipline, compassion, and humility. Their innate passion brings

joy, fun, encouragement, and excitement to the classroom,

creating an experience that students love to return to, one

high-energy lesson after the next.

Forever moving forward, DAV is focused on growth and

evolution. Horrigan and her team are dedicated to providing a

five-star experience for parents while instilling lifelong skills and

memories in their students. Continually enhancing its program

offerings and operations, DAV takes feedback to heart and

remains committed to meeting the needs of its ever-growing

community.

As the curtain rises, one truth remains clear: The Dance

Academy’s legacy shines bright in the hearts of its dancers.

Who We Are

A Vibrant Dance Community

  •  Award-winning: “Best of McLean”

  •  Passionate, proud experts in dance education

  •  Excellence in artistic and technical development

  •  Blending classical foundation with current contemporary dance forms

What We Do

Teach Life Lessons Through Dance

  • A holistic approach to dance education

  • Transfer skills into academic success, mental and physical wellness

  • Create connections, lifelong skills, and memories

  • Celebrate milestones big and small

How We Do It

We Build Confidence & Earn Trust

  • Students gain confidence through self-achievement

  • Safe, nurturing environment that is fun and challenging

  • Children feel seen and love their DAV experience

  • Transparent, educational communication with families

My Story

Why It Works

Our Commitment to Growth

  • Continually evolving and enhancing programs, capacity, and service

  • “5-Star” experience, from the barre to the back office

  •  Dedicated to the next dance generation and student success

  •  Teaching discipline, integrity, compassion, & growth mindset

What We Offer 

  • 3 Core Programs of Dance Education: for ages 2-18 plus an Adult program 

  • Dance Classes & Camps: in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip Hop, & Musical Theater

  • Our DAV curriculum: designed to engage & advance our students through each level annually, based on technical skill & developmental stages.

  • Taught by our professional experienced Faculty 

  • Performance opportunities for all: Spring Recital & Studio Showings

  • ·By audition & eligibility: Youth Ensembles, Competitions, & Winter/Spring Concerts

  • Additional services: Summer & Holiday Camps, Birthday parties, private lessons, rentals, outreach, & community events

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