Commercial dancer Ava Wagner is expanding her professional footprint across the entertainment industry, transitioning from a decorated career on the competitive convention circuit to high-profile commercial bookings, choreography, and tour dancing. Known for her powerful jumps and distinct movement quality, Wagner balances a busy schedule of teaching, modeling, and stage performance following years of top-tier collegiate dance success.
From Competitive Roots to Collegiate Championships
Wagner’s entry into the dance world began in childhood, shaped by a multi-generational family legacy. Her great-grandmother, Shirley Larkin, founded Larkin Dance Studio in Minnesota, where Wagner trained extensively until age 18, according to historical accounts of the studio. Her grandmother, Michele Larkin-Wagner, currently co-owns the establishment. As a competitive dancer, Wagner captured major titles, including the 2018 Orlando Junior Best Dancer award at The Dance Awards, and secured a third-place finish on Season 3 of NBC’s “World of Dance” alongside her sister, Ellie.
Rather than moving immediately to Los Angeles following high school graduation, Wagner followed her sister’s path into collegiate dance. Joining the University of Minnesota dance team, she contributed to two national championships in Division 1A Pom and earned two silver medals in Division 1A Jazz, cementing her technical versatility in large-ensemble sport-style performance.
Commercial Success and Choreography
By the end of the 2025 school year, Wagner relocated to Los Angeles to pursue professional commercial opportunities. Her early bookings include a national Gap advertising campaign and a spot on Derek Hough’s Symphony of Dance: Encore tour, according to published career announcements. In addition to commercial stage and print work, Wagner has returned to her alma mater to shape collegiate routines. University of Minnesota dance team assistant coach Lauren Busyn brought Wagner on to co-choreograph the team’s 2026 jazz routine, which subsequently placed third at the Universal Dance Association (UDA) Nationals.
Alongside performance and choreography projects, Wagner maintains an active role on the convention circuit. She regularly teaches at Press Play conventions alongside her sister Ellie, focusing mentorship efforts on building welcoming spaces for young dancers navigating high-pressure competitive environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Ava Wagner receive her early dance training?
Wagner trained primarily at Larkin Dance Studio in Minnesota, a studio founded by her great-grandmother Shirley Larkin and currently co-owned by her grandmother Michele Larkin-Wagner.
What major collegiate titles did Wagner win?
As a member of the University of Minnesota dance team, Wagner won two national championships in Division 1A Pom and secured two silver medals in Division 1A Jazz.
What tours and commercial projects has Wagner booked?
Wagner has appeared in a Gap advertising campaign, taught at Press Play dance conventions, and secured a performing spot on Derek Hough’s Symphony of Dance: Encore tour.
Keep reading