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.
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.
About the Founder
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
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Award-winning: “Best of McLean”
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Passionate, proud experts in dance education
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Excellence in artistic and technical development
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Blending classical foundation with current contemporary dance forms
What We Do
Teach Life Lessons Through Dance
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A holistic approach to dance education
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Transfer skills into academic success, mental and physical wellness
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Create connections, lifelong skills, and memories
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Celebrate milestones big and small
How We Do It
We Build Confidence & Earn Trust
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Students gain confidence through self-achievement
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Safe, nurturing environment that is fun and challenging
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Children feel seen and love their DAV experience
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Transparent, educational communication with families
My Story
Why It Works
Our Commitment to Growth
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Continually evolving and enhancing programs, capacity, and service
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“5-Star” experience, from the barre to the back office
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Dedicated to the next dance generation and student success
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Teaching discipline, integrity, compassion, & growth mindset
What We Offer
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3 Core Programs of Dance Education: for ages 2-18 plus an Adult program
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Dance Classes & Camps: in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip Hop, & Musical Theater
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Our DAV curriculum: designed to engage & advance our students through each level annually, based on technical skill & developmental stages.
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Taught by our professional experienced Faculty
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Performance opportunities for all: Spring Recital & Studio Showings
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·By audition & eligibility: Youth Ensembles, Competitions, & Winter/Spring Concerts
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Additional services: Summer & Holiday Camps, Birthday parties, private lessons, rentals, outreach, & community events
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