Ava is in 8th grade at Bryan Middle School in Elmhurst, IL. She has been dancing since she was 18 months old! This is her 5th year with Extensions. Ava has earned many accomplishments and awards over the course of her dance career. In 2019, Ava was cast as a Little Snowflake in the Joffrey Ballets’ “The Nutcracker.” In 2022, New York City Dance Alliance awarded her ‘Top Outstanding Dancer’ in the Chicago regional. She has also consistently earned Outstanding Dancer since. Ava is also a member of the Chicago City Classical Ballet where she competes a classical variation, contemporary solo as well as contemporary ensemble at Youth American Grand Prix (YAGP) and Universal Ballet Competition (UBC) to just name a few. In 2024 Ava earned 3rd Place at YAGP for her contemporary solo which earned her a place at the Nervi International Dance Festival in Genoa, Italy. It was an amazing experience to take classes with the best teachers, dancers, and students from around the world. The highlight was performing at the festival, under the stars. She has continued to earn opportunities across the globe from YAGP such as their partner programs in Malta, Italy and Endanza Valencia in Spain. Ava loves Extensions Dance Company not only because of the amazing training and opportunities and awards they have helped provide her but also it’s beautiful community of friends and families.