Solar Dance Club: Where the blind spread the light

Though only located in a small lane of Hanoi, Solar Dance Club appears as a ray of light to blind people, provoking the music spirit in them and inspiring them to spread out that passion.

Visually impaired people practicing dancesport. Photo: The Rice

Dance in the dark

The life of a person with blindness has always been replete with challenges beyond their physical abilities, not to mention in the realms of dancesport. When being asked about obstacles, Ms. Tu Anh confessed “The initial struggles revolve around navigating space and activities. I had a lot of difficulties getting used to this way of life at first where the space surrounding me started to be on the wane.”

Moreover, the visually impaired individuals also had to struggle with societal attitudes. Ms. Tu Anh shared that she used to be a timid student who did not engage in any extracurricular activities during high school. At that time, everyone assumed that the blind were incapable of performing any tasks, which gradually made her feel helpless and reserved.

However, her life took a positive turn when joining Solar Dance Club since it allowed her to connect with like-minded people who shared the same passion. Solar Dance Club is not only a “physical club” where members are taught how to gain confidence with every step but also a “spiritual home” where they feel love and a sense of belonging. The club has become a true “paradise" that heals their “scars” and fills in the gaps of their lives. At this home, they have fun together and are equipped with essential skills that help them reintegrate into the community.

Worn-out shoes associated with the blind's practice session. Photo: The Rice

Mr. To Van Hoa - the instructor of the club - has become a source of inspiration for every member here. “Every day, rain or shine, no matter how many members attend, Mr. Hoa always brings full of energy to us. He is like our father who cares about the smallest things, from our hairstyle to our outfit, even when we go offstage.”

Mr. Hoa carefully instructing students on each movement. Photo: The Rice

What is also instilled in their mind is shining moments on the stage. The thing that draws them together and remains till the end is happiness. Therefore, when stepping onto the stage, all members of Solar Dance Club always wear bright smiles and enjoy their performance to the fullest.

“I still remember once we took part in the National Sports Convention in My Dinh Stadium, after finishing our performance, the whole stadium was filled with warm applause and the song Như có Bác Hồ trong ngày vui đại thắng (As if Uncle Ho were with us on Victory Day). That moment was so touching and will live forever in my heart.”

Spark the light

In the past, most of the members in the center lived in the inner Hanoi: Dong Da, Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem,... However, recently, those who live in faraway districts or even other provinces have also managed to reach this club by different means of transport. Until now, there are hundreds of active members of Solar Dance Club all over Vietnam.

“I proactively volunteered to become the blind coach for some basic classes since I believe in the give-and-take. After receiving helpful knowledge from the teacher Hoa, I want to spread these positive things to those who are visually impaired like me.”

Mrs. Hien is currently in charge of developing a project related to dancesport for visually impaired students at VNU University of Social Sciences and Humanities because the number of the blind in this university is higher than any others. Especially, she wants to nurture musical interest in those blind students and motivate them to keep a positive view towards life no matter what happens.

“I am always proud that in April 2021, we organized the first large-scale dance competition for the blind in the world called The dance that bridges the gap”, said Mrs. Hien. Up to now, the contest has been conducted for 3 seasons and successfully attracted thousands of the blind in different provinces. Through such occasions, they want to show foreign friends that Vietnamese people are resilient, determined and courageous under all circumstances. 

Dream to spread dancesport worldwide. Photo: The Rice

If Dancesport can successfully be brought into the Paralympic Games of both Vietnam and Internationals, it will be more widely recognized and athletes can get paid as a normal job. In the near future, another mission they want to accomplish is to light up the dancing dreams of the blind in Central and Southern Vietnam.

Solar Dance Club: Where the blind spread the light. Video: The Rice

Formed in Hanoi in 2020, Solar Dance Club has been striving towards creating a healthy environment for the blind to connect and interact. The name “Solar” represents the sunlight that the blind always desire. Solar also stands for “Steps of Love and Rhythm”, through which they want to convey the message that under the cover of darkness, the love of melody will light up their lives. Up to now, Solar has accompanied hundreds of members, and this number is growing day by day.

Do you think Dancesport should be recognized as an official sport in the Paralympic Games?

• Yes, absolutely
• Maybe, with further consideration
• No, not necessary