Michelle Ava (M. A.) is a vital force in DC's dance and holistic community, approaching movement as a healing art, and embracing the fusion possibilities of mind, body, and spirit. She is creator of the AVAdance paradigm through which students work to integrate movement and everyday life through a philosophy of Authentic Vibrant Awareness, focusing on how we relate to the world and perceive the fullness of being alive in a positive, life enhancing way.

Michelle has a Masters Degree in Dance Education and is a founding member of Free Association Improv Company an experimental Improvisation company recognized in the 1970's and 80's as "leading edge and experimentally advanced". Additionally, she is known for founding Joy of Motion Dance Center in 1976, where she served as artistic director until 1990.

Michelle's currently directs DC improv company, ImproVolutions, and manages Dancing4Ever, a movement program focused on bringing dance to those over 50.