NBA Pre-Game Performance Opportunity

AVA Dance Company will return to Capital One Arena in Washington DC on March 17 to perform during Pre-Game festivities at the Washington Wizards' match against the Detroit Pistons!

We are looking for 25 dancers to join us on the court at Capital One Arena for a unique performance opportunity. Challenge yourself by learning a Hip Hop routine, enjoy a basketball game together with your new dance friends, and get the opportunity to perform on an NBA court with loved ones watching you!

This opportunity is open to dancers of all levels! Whether you're considering auditioning or you’ve been looking for a "bucket list" moment, this could be for you!

Rehearsals will be held on the following Wednesday's at Gold's Gym - Ballston from 8:30P-9:30P:

• February 18, 2026

• February 25, 2026

• March 4, 2026

• March 11, 2026 (Dress Rehearsal)

Registration will open on Friday, January 30 at 8AM via the Google Form below to the first 25 dancers. Once the form hits its maximum number of dancers + waitlist, it will close. Dancers will be contacted via email later that day to be notified whether they are in the first 25 or on the waitlist.

Registration Link Here

The registration cost for this experience is $250. Additionally, dancers will need to purchase any costume needs as well as their game ticket using our AVA Dance Company link in order to perform.

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Choreographer: Ashleigh Bennett

As a former 5-time NBA dancer for  the Washington Wizards (1X Captain) and SoulCycle instructor, Ashleigh (Shleigh) loves the way dance blends together athleticism, rhythm and the joy of motion! Her goal is to  challenge you to unlock a deeper version of yourself, while spreading positive energies and having fun in the process.

When you learn from Ashleigh, expect nothing less than an energetic, hard-hitting combination that will move you past your comfort zone and leave you feeling victorious! Her time in the studio is MUCH more than eight counts and choreography, to her, it is about spirituality! She will push you to find strength in vulnerability, encourage you to tap into a deeper threshold of power and help you pull the fighter out from within. Ashleigh's love for dance started over 20 years ago and she hopes that her love radiates through her choreography and teaching style.

Shleigh has been an instructor with AVA for the past 6 years, and also doubles as our primary music mixer! In addition to the dozens of classes she has taught with us, she has choreographed three stage routines for our annual Performance Showcase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

If I can't make a rehearsal, can I still participate?

Priority will be given to dancers who can attend all rehearsals. If spots are still open, we will open registration up to remaining dancers!

How does registration work?

Registration will open at 8AM on January 30 via the above Google Form link. Spots will fill on a first come, first served basis and the form will close once it hits the maximum capacity. We suggest being ready right at 8AM as our performance opportunities historically fill quickly.

What style is the routine?

Dancers can expect an energetic, hard-hitting Hip Hop routine with some sassy flair. This piece will have you feeling like a total baddie!

Do I need any skills or experience?

We suggest dancers have a base line understanding of the hip hop dance style.

No specific skills are required! After registration, we will send out a questionnaire so you can tell us about your skills & we may incorporate them into the performance!

Where is the game / what is call time?

The game will be held at Capital One Arena in Washington DC and begin at 7PM. While an exact call time to the arena is TBA, it will likely be approx. 2 hours prior to the start of the game. Our performance will take place prior to tip off.

Where are the rehearsals held at?

Rehearsals will take place at Gold's Gym - Ballston, located in Arlington, VA. This is also where we host our drop-in classes! It is a short walk from the Metro’s orange and silver lines (Ballston-MU & VA Square stops) and has a free, large parking lot for dancers who drive! Park in GYM ONLY designated spots to prevent having your car towed!

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Check Out Our Previous NBA Performances

AVA Dance Company made their NBA debut on March 2, 2023 with a Pre-Game Performance at Capital One Arena! This piece was choreographed by 4X Washington Wizards Dancer, Marielle Abbott.

AVA Dance Company returned to the court of Capital One Arena in Washington DC on November 11, 2023…but this time for halftime! This piece was choreographed by 3X Washington Wizards Dancer & AVA's Founder/Director, Leah Mariner.

50 member of our community came together for a Lady Gaga inspired halftime production at a 2025 Washington Wizards game! This piece was also choreographed by Leah Mariner.