Avery Strong, fourteen, studies dance at the Ballet School of Chapel Hill under the direction of M’Liss Dorrance, Katie Wakeford, Julie Walters, and Laurie Yeames.  Avery is currently participating (and participated in 2021) in Carolina Ballet’s Summer Intensive, directed by Margaret Severin-Hansen, where she is learning from a variety of principal dancers including Amanda Gerhardt, Pablo Javier Perez, Courtney Schenberger, and Marcelo Martinez. Prior to deciding to focus on dance, Avery was a gymnast for several years, achieving Level 5 Junior Olympics status in competition. She enjoys listening to music, cheerleading on her school's team, camping, and hanging out with friends. Avery is very excited to have this opportunity to perform at the American Dance Festival with Monica Bill Barnes & Company!