Ava Otto is the incredible eleven-year-old daughter of famed Limp Bizkit drummer John Otto. But there is much more Ava than just a famous father / last name.
At only 11, Ava has earned prestigious titles, awards and scholarships within the dance industry, been in movies, modeling campaigns and has even been an outspoken hero for other young girls going through bullying; Ava survived being bullied by actual parent’s of some of her former dance studio individuals.
The Levity Ball spoke exclusively to the young and bright star to find out more and what she looks forward to when she can finally come dance and visit NYC.
Being so young still (11!), when did you know that you wanted to pursue dance more and more?
I’ve known I loved to dance since I was 5 years old. I performed at my school’s talent show. I danced to my own cover of “In Summer” from the movie “Frozen”. My dad recorded me singing the song in our home studio and my dance teacher Ms. Kimmi helped me choreograph my dance. I was so happy singing and dancing I decided to take it more seriously. When I was 6 yrs old I asked my parents to send me to more dance classes and I joined my first competition team. I’ve been pursuing my passion for dance ever since.
What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment so far?
I feel like my biggest accomplishment so far is being on an upcoming TV show! I’m super excited to share more about that show and other tv projects I have coming out in 2022!
You were bullied, not by kids, but by actual parents at a dance studio. How did this experience help make you stronger?
That experience was really tough, but I learned I’m resilient. Being bullied helped me learn other people’s insecurities are not my problem. I can’t control other people’s bad behavior, but I can control how I react to it. These things make me feel strong because no matter what someone says or does I can choose not to let it affect me or break me down. I stayed focused and kept working hard to achieve my goals. It was really hard to go through, but I’m thankful that helped make me the positive, determined and compassionate person I am today.
What is your message to other young kids who may be getting bullied?
I was so lucky to have the support of my parents, teachers and so many good friends. Even though I’m only 11 years old, a lot of parents trust me to talk to their kids who are being bullied. Hearing my experiences help them know they aren’t alone and things will get better. When I talk to other kids who are being bullied I tell them it’s really important to tell an adult they can trust. I want them to know it isn’t their fault. Bullies are unhappy people who need to tear other people down to make themselves feel better. Don’t let the bully win by believing the mean things they say about you. I tell them to always hold their head up high! Never let your crown fall!!
When you finally get to come to New York, what places would you like to go out to?
I would love to go to The Chelsea Market, Time square, and Central Park.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years from now?
Ten years from now I see myself being a successful dancer, TV personality and businesswoman. I’m on track to finish high school when I am 15 yrs old. I want to go to college, travel and work in the entertainment industry. I know if I continue to work hard and stay focused I can achieve these goals in 10 years.
How important is social media these days? What platforms do you like most?
Social media is MAJOR now! So many artists have become popular thanks to social media. It’s a great way to get yourself out there. My favorite platforms are Instagram and Tik Tok.
What is your ultimate goal?
My ultimate goal is to be a successful entertainer and businesswoman who has built a popular brand for myself. I would love to work with many of my idols in the industry. I also want to create opportunities for other young artists.
