Heather Wagley’s inability to hear hasn’t denied her the joy of dance. Despite losing her hearing as an infant, her mother encouraged her to take up ballroom dancing at age 13 and she’s been tripping the light fantastic ever since. “She believed it would be great exercise and good for my mind and heart,” said Wagley, a Chagrin Falls resident. “Even though I am deaf, she knew there was no reason I couldn’t enjoy dance, and she was absolutely right.” Dance instructor Lisa Vegas has played a significant role in Wagley’s experience which now includes winning several championships at various events. “She looks forward to these opportunities to dress up, meet new people and share special moments with her dancing community…teaching Heather has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” Vegas said. “She brings so much passion and determination to the dance floor. Ballroom dance instructor Lisa Vegas, left, has worked with Heather Wagley, right, to help her overcome the limitations of deafness while learning to dance. (Submitted) “Heather has shown that dance is a universal language, one that transcends barriers and can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their ability.” Feeling the music and following her partner’s lead are ways in which Wagley has overcome the challenges of learning dance. Relying on visual cues and the physical sensations of movement are also key components, along with her superior skills in lip reading and sign language that help with communication and understanding choreography. “I’ve learned to feel the rhythm of the music through vibrations, and I focus on my partner’s movements and body language to stay in sync,” she said. “This helps me keep pace with the music and the other dancers.” In addition to looking forward to the excitement of upcoming competitions including one taking place this month in Chicago, she’s hopeful that a planned cochlear implant will help with hearing music and thus add a new dimension to her dancing. “My goal is to continue improving as a dancer,” she said. Vegas maintains that creating an environment in which deaf dancers can fully participate in and enjoy the art of ballroom enriches the entire dance community by promoting mindful and connected dancing for everyone. Wagler agrees and notes that the dance community “is already very inclusive, but there’s always room for improvement,” and adds that “As more deaf dancers take the stage I think awareness will grow and instructors will continue to develop techniques for teaching dance to those with hearing challenges.” When asked what advice she would give to other deaf individuals who aspire to become dancers she said “…anyone can learn to dance, no matter their limitations. Don’t be afraid to try it. Dance is for everyone, and with the right teachers and partners, you’ll find your rhythm and enjoy the process.” For more information, visit www.lisavegasdance.com.