Premier Dance Academy in Northern Virginia
The Academy Program
Our Pre-Professional Program
Pre-Professional Training at DAV
The Dance Academy of Virginia Academy Program is our pre-professional training program for dancers ready to take their training to the next level.
Through comprehensive training in Classical Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Pointe/Pre-Pointe, Conditioning, and more, Academy dancers develop strong technical foundations, artistry, discipline, confidence, and healthy training habits in a positive and supportive environment.
Academy dancers also have access to additional performance and competition opportunities throughout the season.
Academy Program Levels
Placement in the Academy Program is by invitation and is based on each dancer’s technical skills, developmental progression, and consistency across required styles.
Advanced Academy
Levels 1 through 4
Our highest Academy levels provide our most advanced dancers with an intensive and comprehensive training schedule.
Advanced Academy dancers train a minimum of approximately 8 hours per week in classes including Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Pointe/Pre-Pointe, Combinations, Hip-Hop, and Conditioning.
Most Advanced Academy dancers also audition for Competition pieces. Dancers cast in Competition pieces should expect approximately 1–6 additional rehearsal hours per week depending on their pieces.
Tap Academy
Tap Academy is DAV’s audition-based training program for dancers looking for additional focused Tap training.
Tap Academy includes Tap Academy A/B, Tap Academy C/D, and Teen Tap Academy. Tap Academy dancers are required to take Jazz in addition to their Tap Academy class and may also audition for DAV Competition pieces.
Placement & Progression
Academy placement is determined through teacher recommendations, assessments, and auditions. Placement considers technical ability, developmental readiness, consistency, and the dancer’s execution across required styles.
Our faculty evaluates Academy dancers throughout the season, and formal assessments are held each Spring to determine placement for the following school year.
Because every dancer develops at a different pace, progressing to a new Academy level is based on readiness rather than age alone.
Families are notified of any level adjustments and are always welcome to request a parent conference by emailing info@danceacademyva.com.
New to DAV? Please contact us to try a class and receive level placement guidance.
Performance Opportunities
The Nutcracker
Academy dancers entering 1st grade and above are eligible to audition for DAV’s annual production of The Nutcracker. Participation is optional and requires an audition. Dancers cast in the production must meet all Nutcracker training and rehearsal requirements.
Academy Spring Concert
All Academy Program dancers participate in DAV’s annual Academy Spring Concert. This professional, ticketed theater performance gives dancers the opportunity to showcase their growth and training in costume onstage.
Competition
Competition opportunities are available by audition to eligible Academy dancers who meet DAV’s age and technical requirements. Dancers must be in at least their second year of the Academy Program to audition for Competition pieces.
Competition Showcase
Academy dancers participating in the 2026–2027 Competition Season will perform their Competition pieces for family and friends during our annual Competition Showcase.
Community Performances
Additional community performance opportunities may become available throughout the season. When opportunities arise, families will receive information about the event and any additional rehearsal commitments before participating.
Our Studios
Dance is a physical, hands-on activity, and we think you should be able to see exactly where your child will spend their class time before you ever walk in the door.
Both of our locations are designed with young dancers in mind, with sprung Marley floors, bright and welcoming classrooms, and viewing options for family members who are not in the room.
Meet Your Teachers
At Dance Academy of Virginia, exceptional dance training begins with exceptional teachers. Our faculty brings the artistry and expertise of the professional dance world into a welcoming, supportive environment where every dancer is encouraged to thrive.
With a lifetime of dedication to their craft, our accomplished educators bring extensive training, professional performance experience, and a genuine passion for sharing their knowledge with the next generation. They understand that great teaching goes beyond technique. It's about building confidence, inspiring creativity, nurturing individuality, and helping every dancer discover their fullest potential.
Meet the talented individuals who bring DAV to life! Explore our faculty bios to discover their unique backgrounds, professional experiences, and the passion they bring to the studio each day.
