Artistic Directors
“Next to NY, Tokyo and Paris, Toronto is the hub of one of the most supportive, talented and inspiring dance communities. We want bridge the gap between theatre & commercial dancers with goal to unite this family under one roof” Apolonia Velasquez Co-Artistic Director Gadfly
She is a passionate dancer, choreographer, and educator whose drive has brought her to major cities worldwide. Originally from Montreal, her fulfilling dance journey began at an early age. Renowned for her performance, freestyle and choreography skills, she stands out by her distinctive energy and her refined professional work ethic. Making her an established versatile dancer, her dance repertoire has evolved and grown immensely through the years. Her expertise on emerging street dances such as House and Waacking, along with her extensive training in Hip Hop, Ballet and Folkloric dancing make her an exceptional sought after artist.
Apolonia can be seen as principal dancer in commercials for So You Think You Can Dance Canada and Dove, and featured Actor for Staples, Walmart, Virgin Mobile, Nike, and Bell. Whether on screen, live or on tour, she has worked at the Much Music Video Awards and for artists such as Katy Perry, Massari, Eva Avila, Jully Black, Shawn Desman, Cory Lee and Thunderheist. As the artistic director of Gadfly Dance Company, her work has been presented during Festivals such as Ted Talks Toronto, Luminato, Toronto Fringe and Nuit Blanche. Also, it has contributed to organizations such as “Keep-A-Breast”, “The Speech and Stuttering Institute”, and “Rethink Breast Cancer”.
She is thankful to have learned and exchanged with some of the most trust worthy dancers and choreographers out there, and is eager to share her knowledge and savoir-faire with others.
“There are two main reasons why we are doing this. First, Pop-locking, spinning on your head, or booty shaking is NOT Street dancing. Second, being a dancer is an art but also a PROFESSION. Record artists, the general public and WE need to recognize this” Ofilio Sinbadinho Portillo Co-Artistic Director Gadfly
He is a choreographer, actor, dancer, designer, photographer, educator, artistic director, and most of all a constant work in progress. His curiosity brought him to learn an array of dance styles. He is responsible for bringing shine on stage to street styles such as Hip Hop and House Dancing. His drive makes him an exceptional professional artist and his realness a unique admiring person.
His talent led him into landing roles in feature films “Turn The Beat Around” and “You Got Served 2: Beat The World” as well as working in the movie “Camp Rock 2” featuring the Jonas Brothers. He can be seen in commercials for Virgin Mobile and WarChild foundation. His hard work has brought him to cities like Berlin, Rio, Paris, Chicago, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. He has worked with artists such as: Kreesha Turner, Feist, Jully Black, Thunderheist, Danny Fernandes and European sensation Cascada. He is the founder of the highly praised Gadfly Dance Company. His work has been presented during festivals like: Manifesto, Ted Talks Toronto, Luminato, Break Beats and Culture, Toronto Fringe, International Dance Day, and Nuit Blanche. He worked as assistant choreographer in the hit TV show “So You Think You Can Dance Canada”. Ofilio has persevered to demonstrate his art on many aspects, from touring, to movies, TV shows, music videos, live stage performances, international dance battles, and theatrical productions. Born in El Salvador, raised in Montreal, trained in New York, and now living in Toronto, Ofilio “Sinbadinho” Portillo has already achieved many of his dreams. His successes and setbacks make him thankful for the experiences and people he has encountered. Therefore, he looks forward to continue to share his talent, energy and mindset to inspire others to dream, believe and achieve.
