Studio 17 Dance

Studio 17 Dance is a family-owned studio located at 4876 Princess Anne Road in Virginia Beach, minutes from Town Center. The studio operates two studio spaces and teaches beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes across multiple disciplines. Instructors place students in the appropriate level based on current technique and age.

The studio was founded by Avery Zink, who holds a BA in Dance from Old Dominion University. Avery began dancing at age three and developed a passion for choreography as a teenager. At just 17 years old, she choreographed a main stage piece—the inspiration for the studio's name. Avery studied dance, kinesiology, and anatomy, completing her degree in three and a half years. She has taught at prestigious local studios, choreographed audition pieces for students, and developed a dance program for the Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Readiness Organization at Naval Air Station Oceana. Her choreography has received national recognition at the American Choreographic Dance Festival.

Avery's vision emphasizes quality instruction that is developmentally appropriate, focuses on injury prevention, and promotes healthy mind and body images while concentrating on proper dance technique.

The team brings diverse experience to the studio. Kelly Parks, studio administrator and parent liaison, recently left a career teaching in the local school system where she taught grades KG-5th and ran a testing program. Kellam Parks handles the business and legal side. Connie Hindmarsh, creative and production consultant, is a former local television personality (Miss Connie from Romper Room and Connie's Magic Cottage) who directed Norfolk Public Schools' Performing Arts Repertory Company and helped launch the careers of Broadway performers. She works with Studio 17 dancers to develop stage artistry and performance skills.

All those involved in the business hold collegial certificates in their respective fields. The studio welcomes dancers at all stages—those starting their journey with dance for the first time, seasoned dancers seeking fresh perspectives, and those preparing for competitions, pageants, and college or professional auditions.

Call the studio to discuss your experience level and goals, and instructors will place you in the appropriate class based on your technique and age. Classes run Monday to Friday 3pm–9pm, with varying weekend hours.

Owner and director Avery Zink brings a BA in Dance and national recognition for choreography. The team includes Kelly Parks (administrator), Connie Hindmarsh (creative consultant and former television personality and performing arts director), and others with collegial certificates in their fields.

The studio welcomes beginners and places all students in classes matched to their current technique level and age.