Seduce the Silence

Video Narration:

Hi, my name is Vanida. I'm a graphic designer. Self-expression is really important to me — whether that’s through art, design, tattoos, hair colour, makeup, fashion, or most importantly — dance.

I'm not a professional dancer by any means. I do it for fun as a hobby and a workout. Heels class is my favourite because it challenges how I move — physically and mentally. There's a version of me that only shows up when I dance: she’s flirty, she's sassy, she's confident.

If you saw me in real life in a crowded room, I’d probably come across as quiet and introverted. I don’t drink alcohol, I rarely go to parties — but when I dance? Who is this diva?

A lot of people — especially dates — have told me they couldn’t tell if I liked them because I never make eye contact. I’m so bad at it! I can be awkward, even avoidant. But in dance? I don't know why it's different. Heels dance is hardcore flirting. There's no words. I become expressive in ways I can’t explain. Through movement, musicality, and lyrics —I say things I’d never say out loud.

Oh I’m fully aware of my outfit choices in class. I show up depending on the song or my mood — some days it’s tomboy, other days it’s full-on sex appeal cunty and all.

I'm in my thirties by the way. The more my outfits make straight people uncomfortable, the more I love it.

I'm grateful I get to travel all around the world and pack my heels with me. I try to regularly go to studio drop-in classes. Toronto’s dance teachers are amazing — they offer everything from beginner to advanced levels, heels to hip hop styles like salsa, afro and more.

Dance is therapeutic, you shut the world out for an hour to have fun and sweat. I love encouraging and inviting people to go! Like c'mon, in heels class, I get to dance in a room full of hot badass women (sometimes men) — are you kidding me, how lucky am I?

Sometimes the song is slow and sensual. Sometimes it’s bad bitch queen energy. Either way, it’s a vibe.

Whatever it is — it’s never just steps. When I dance, I stop asking permission. I take up space. I seduce the silence. I’m not performing for anyone besides myself. I’m just flirting with fire.

Link to Video