Last week, Grammy-nominated Limp Bizkit’s frontman Fred Durst, guitarist Wes Borland, bassist Sam Rivers, turntablist DJ Lethal and drummer John Otto, hit Madison Square Garden here in town on their US “Still Sucks Tour”. And joining the band were some of the group’s family members (total “Dad Vibes”), including John Otto’s young daughter Ava Otto, who recently starred on the CBS series, Come Dance With Me.
The young model/dancer came into New York a couple days earlier than the big concert to enjoy the sights and scenes with her family. “We had an amazing time in New York! My parents have been there many times before, but it was my first trip there. I fell in love with the city! There’s so much to see and do,” Ava told us. Her dad John also told us that a return soon is on the horizon. “It was a quick trip. We’re definitely planning to go back as a family to see more of the historical landmarks, eat at the famous spots like Katz deli, see some shows and soak up the culture.”
As for playing on-stage at MSG for the first time in his long career, John couldn’t hold in his excitement stating, “I’ve dreamed of playing in Madison Square Garden! That’s one of those iconic bucket list venues for any entertainer. It was very inspiring to share that moment with my fans and family. Needless to say, Madison Square Garden was the most impressive place we visited on this trip. Walking the halls backstage was like a trip through history. There were photos of so many great entertainers I admire who have also played the historic venue. Sharing that with my band, Ava and my wife Cassandra was surreal.”
With MSG now behind the band, their tour continues more across the United States, and then into Europe later this year. And while the band is touring, Ava is out promoting her time on her recent CBS television dance competition series that she experienced alongside her famous dad John.
“My goals [now that the show is over] are to continue to train hard at my craft as an artist, work on more projects and spend more time enjoying life. The show wrapped almost a year ago. I’m grateful to say I’ve achieved many of my goals between then and now. I’ve been accepted into The Academy training program at The Space. I’ve worked with Krista Miller for many years. I love her teaching style and amazing technique. I’m so honored to be one of the select group of dancers accepted into Krista and Cory Miller’s brand new training program! In April, I filmed a jazz funk video choreographed by the fabulous Todd Flanagan for their Space TV platform. That was a blast! I assisted Todd and was the featured dancer in the video. Another dream of mine recently came true. I signed with Clear Talent Group in Los Angeles. I hope to work more and grow as an artist with their support. I also launched my non-profit Passion Project X. I hope to support and inspire other people pursuing their life’s passion. Our family works hard, but we also value family. I’m looking forward to traveling more and spending lots of quality time with my family and friends.”
And will John be dancing more in the future, he would only hint to us, “You never know… maybe if the stars align. [Come Dance With Me] was a great bonding experience for us. I’m on the road quite a bit and Ava is much busier than the average kid. Being able to spend months in Australia together was priceless.”
New York has played host to many famous faces and families, but it is always special to hear about a family creating new memories together no matter if they are famous or not, and inspiring these people as they take the next steps in their lives, like Ava Otto.
“Walking along Broadway was inspirational for me because I aspire to perform in musicals in the future. I’m excited to return to New York in June for a fun event at the Capezio flagship store. I’ve been a brand ambassador/model for famous ballerina Alison Stroming’s AS Dancewear line since 2020. Capezio is celebrating the launch of the AS Dancewear line in their store June 3rd with an awesome dance class taught by Alison. Many mentees like myself will be there to dance and meet supporters of the brand. We’re also shooting some of the new AS Dancewear pieces for the website and social media which is always fun!” finished off Ava Otto in our exclusive conversation.
We are excited for this family to return shortly, and hear more music from John and Limp Bizkit too!
