You Should Know: Avery Gay

Avery Gay’s chameleonlike abilities have earned her comp-world celebrity. In a testament to her versatility, she won the 2015 Hope Award—a prize reserved for the best classical and contemporary dancer in the pre-competitive age bracket—at the Youth America Grand Prix Las Vegas semifinals. Then she won it again at the 2016 Austin, TX semifinals.

Considering her strong work ethic and love of performing, it’s no surprise the 12-year-old didn’t stop there: She also scooped up the bronze medal in her age bracket at the 2015 YAGP NYC finals, was named The Dance Awards 2015 Mini Division Best Dancer in Las Vegas and is a member of the 2016 Beat Squad at DancerPalooza in L.A.

Avery logs 30 to 35 hours per week at Master Ballet Academy in Scottsdale, AZ, honing her classical technique. To accommodate her intense schedule, she attends public school in the morning before hitting the studio. This summer, Avery will have the opportunity to perform at the Gala de Danza in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, alongside other top pre-professionals and international stars.

“I love to act onstage. I always come up with a story, even in a contemporary piece.”

Fast Facts

Birthday:
May 25, 2004

Favorite musical group:
The Beach Boys

Favorite dancers:
Gisele Bethea and Maria Kochetkova

Hidden talent:
“I’m obsessed with organizing things.”

Favorite food:
Pickles

Stress reliever:
A hot bath with Epsom salts

Dream role:
“Odile in Swan Lake. I love her attitude and drama.”

Her dancing in three words:
“Technical, powerful and dramatic”

Advice for
Dance Spirit readers: “Hard work always pays off.”