Five Years Strong: Dance Academy of Virginia’s Summer of Growth and Celebration

This summer marks a significant milestone for Dance Academy of Virginia (DAV): five years of inspiring movement, artistry, and community. What began with one small studio in McLean has blossomed into one of the region’s most respected dance institutions, now operating in both McLean and Del Ray with over 1,300 students across locations. The academy continues to expand its programs, deepen its community roots, and cultivate the kind of environment where students thrive both technically and emotionally.

A recent feature by ALXnow highlighted just how quickly DAV has grown. In only 18 months, the Del Ray studio welcomed 450 students, a number that reflects not just interest, but trust from families seeking excellence in dance education. Founder Katherine Horrigan’s vision - grounded in professional experience, artistic integrity, and strong community values - has helped transform DAV into more than a dance school. It is a creative home.

This summer, the academy leans into its strengths with a full schedule of unique and engaging dance camps for children of all ages and skill levels. Each program is designed to challenge, excite, and support every dancer’s journey.

Signature Summer Programming

DAV’s summer camp schedule is a standout offering. Themed camps are tailored to dancers between ages 2 and 11, blending age-appropriate choreography with interactive storytelling, music, and creative movement. Each camp promotes both technical skill and imaginative exploration. Camps like “Taylor Swift Eras,” “Wicked,” and “Disney Royalty” ignite excitement, while still delivering strong fundamentals in ballet, jazz, lyrical, and more.

For older or more experienced dancers, DAV offers intensive options such as the Youth Masterclass Series and Ballet Intensive weeks. These sessions focus on strength, technique, and performance refinement, often taught by rotating faculty and guest instructors. These programs are designed to sharpen artistry, broaden versatility, and prepare dancers for more advanced training or competitive performance seasons.

More Than Just Dance

DAV’s instructors create an environment where students feel seen and supported. The academy places an emphasis on consistency, kindness, and professionalism. This philosophy shapes more than how students are taught, but also how they view themselves and others in the studio space. Many parents note that their children walk away from classes more confident, more self-aware, and more committed to their goals - qualities that extend far beyond the studio.

The energy in both studios this summer reflects five years of momentum. Families return year after year, some with siblings enrolled across multiple programs. New students are welcomed into a studio culture that values both individual growth and collective joy. Each week, dancers are given tools to express themselves while learning the discipline required to excel in an art form rooted in both tradition and innovation.

Join the Movement

Summer is an ideal time to experience what DAV has to offer. With a full calendar of programs and performances, now is the moment to become part of a community rooted in excellence and heart. Dancers will have the opportunity to perform, connect, and grow in an environment that celebrates creativity, hard work, and joy.

To learn more about summer camps, year-round classes, and the upcoming Nutcracker production, visit www.danceacademyva.com. And to read more about DAV’s rapid growth and community impact, check out the ALXnow article here: ALXnow Feature on DAV’s Del Ray Expansion