Toymaker
May
25
to May 26

Toymaker

TOYMAKER

MAY 25-26

LINCOLN-WAY WEST HIGH SCHOOL

Performances

May 25 | 2:00 PM
May 25 | 7:00 PM
May 26 | 3:00 PM

Step into the enchanting world of Toymaker, where the vibrant town of Marisol sets the stage for a captivating ballet created by Julianna Rubio Slager. Curiosity drives young Nadia to uncover the secrets of the legendary Toymaker, leading her on a mesmerizing quest. From the magical Woodlands to the Toymaker's workshop filled with exquisite, life-sized dolls, witness the moment they come alive and the turmoil that ensues. Set to the enchanting score by Leo Delibes, this ballet is an ode to the beloved classic, Coppélia.

As the dolls strive to become real like Nadia, they face the devious Mayor Kratz and a selfless act of love that changes everything. Experience the power of forgiveness and acceptance as the Toymaker extends an invitation to freedom, and join the talented students from across the United States who have come to dance at the School of Ballet 5:8 on an extraordinary journey filled with captivating choreography, evocative music, and the artistry of storytelling that will ignite your imagination and touch your heart.

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Lost Women of Juárez
Apr
20

Lost Women of Juárez

As a Resident Company at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, Ballet 5:8 presents Lost Women of Juarez, Wind, Counterpart, and The Sea is Flat.

The Lost Women of Juarez tells the story of thousands of women who have vanished in the borderland between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Julianna Rubio Slager, a Chicana with a deep personal connection to the story, approaches it with sensitivity, empathy, and authenticity. Through her vision, she will give life to the stories of these women, capturing their essence and the emotional journey they endured.

The Sea is Flat explores the capricious power of the sea and a divine presence that speaks order into chaos.

Wind is a mesmerizing ballet by renowned choreographer Steve Rooks, inspired by Alfonso Peduto’s music.

Counterpart is Julianna Rubio Slager’s breathtaking new pas de deux that transcends boundaries and ignites the imagination to reconsider the tension and thrill of equality.

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Imagine Better | Bartlett Performing Arts Center
Apr
6

Imagine Better | Bartlett Performing Arts Center

The Lost Women of Juarez tells the story of thousands of women who have vanished in the borderland between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Julianna Rubio Slager, a Chicana with a deep personal connection to the story, approaches it with sensitivity, empathy, and authenticity. Through her vision, she will give life to the stories of these women, capturing their essence and the emotional journey they endured.

The Sea is Flat explores the capricious power of the sea and a divine presence that speaks order into chaos.

Wind is a mesmerizing ballet by renowned choreographer Steve Rooks, inspired by Alfonso Peduto’s music.

Counterpart is Julianna Rubio Slager’s breathtaking new pas de deux that transcends boundaries and ignites the imagination to reconsider the tension and thrill of equality.

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Butterfly | Bowie Center for the Arts
Mar
16

Butterfly | Bowie Center for the Arts

Step into the transformative world of Butterfly, where the harmony of music, dance, and visual art create an unforgettable and deeply moving experience. Butterfly tells the story of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis and her student Helga Weiss in the Jewish ghetto of Terezin during the Holocaust. With a descendant of Holocaust survivors in the cast, the story is a deeply moving testimony to the resilience of the human spirit.

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Golden Sessions at the Athenaeum Center
Feb
25

Golden Sessions at the Athenaeum Center

Ballet 5:8 & The Athenaeum Center Present

Golden Sessions

Step into the enchanting world of Golden Sessions, a masterpiece by choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager. This ballet, inspired by C.S. Lewis's profound exploration of love in his literary work The Four Loves, promises an extraordinary and uplifting experience for both dedicated Ballet 5:8 fans and newcomers alike.

Featuring a moving score by acclaimed composers John Adams, Oliver Davis, and Ezio Bosso, Golden Sessions breathes life into the intricate nuances of love through its exquisite classical choreography. The cast's exceptional performances create a synergy of music, movement, and emotion, leaving audiences deeply moved and inspired.

Embark on a transformative journey through the four distinct types of love: affection, friendship, romance, and charity. Golden Sessions challenges you to explore the depths and complexities of this universal emotion, touching your heart and expanding your understanding.

The captivating combination of music, movement, and Ballet 5:8's artistry will transport you to a world where love takes center stage. Prepare to be enthralled, uplifted, and inspired by this breathtaking ballet that celebrates the profound depths of human connection.


WHEN
Sunday, February 25 | 7:00 PM

6:00 PM | Lobby & Box Office Opens
6:30 PM | House Opens
7:00 PM | Curtain

SPECIAL EVENT | On Stage TalkBack will take place immediately post-performance

WHERE

Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture
2936 N Southport Ave
Chicago, IL 60657


Online ticket sales close two hours prior to the performance. Tickets can be purchased at the door.


Questions? Contact Ballet 5:8 at 312.725.4752 or info@balle58.org

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Butterfly | Logan Center for the Arts
Feb
11

Butterfly | Logan Center for the Arts

  • Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts at the University of Chicago (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Butterfly originally premiered in 2019 on the eve of the pandemic and is a captivating production that includes music composed in the haunting confines of the Jewish ghetto of Terezin. Julianna Rubio Slager’s choreography infuses the story with raw emotion and echoes the melodies of the score. The ballet also features artwork created by the children of Terezin projected on the backdrop and immerses the audience in the horror and persistent hope of the Holocaust.

Butterfly returns to Chicago on February 11th at the Logan Center in Hyde Park. Ellington Nichols, a descendant of Holocaust survivors, will play the role of Helga Weiss.

Also in this bill are two World Premieres: Steve Rook’s Wind and Julianna Rubio Slager’s Counterpart.

Ballet 5:8 is excited to join the Logan Center as a Community Arts Partner for the 2023/24 Season.

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Spring 2024 Preview Party
Jan
20

Spring 2024 Preview Party

Join us for champagne, light fare, and excerpts from Ballet 5:8’s 2024 Spring Season. Be one of the first to view the Lost Women of Juarez, Wind, Counterpart and the Sea is Flat! Tickets are $10 and include the mini-performance as well as a meet and greet with the artists of Ballet 5:8.

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Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East
Dec
17

Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East

LINCOLN-WAY EAST HIGH SCHOOL

Performances

December 16 | 2:00 PM
December 16 | 7:00 PM
December 17 | 3:00 PM

A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist returns this season. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.

Immerse yourself in the magical choreography of Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, featuring the students of the School of Ballet 5:8 and Guest Artists from Ballet 5:8.

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Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East
Dec
16

Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East

LINCOLN-WAY EAST HIGH SCHOOL

Performances

December 16 | 2:00 PM
December 16 | 7:00 PM
December 17 | 3:00 PM

A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist returns this season. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.

Immerse yourself in the magical choreography of Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, featuring the students of the School of Ballet 5:8 and Guest Artists from Ballet 5:8.

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Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East
Dec
16

Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East

LINCOLN-WAY EAST HIGH SCHOOL

Performances

December 16 | 2:00 PM
December 16 | 7:00 PM
December 17 | 3:00 PM

A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist returns this season. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.

Immerse yourself in the magical choreography of Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, featuring the students of the School of Ballet 5:8 and Guest Artists from Ballet 5:8.

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Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum
Nov
25
to Nov 26

Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum

  • Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The South Suburbs’ Favorite Nutcracker and one of Pointe Magazine’s top ten Nutcrackers to see in Chicago!

A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.

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Beyond the Nutcracker Tea
Nov
18

Beyond the Nutcracker Tea

A Sensory Friendly way to experience a holiday tradition.

Beyond the Nutcracker Tea brings the South Suburbs favorite Nutcracker to the accessible space of Ballet 5:8’s Studio Theatre. Small Audience sizes, no lighting effects, and flexible seating make it a perfect introduction to ballet for all audiences and for those who desire a sensory friendly experience.

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Ballet 5:8 Gala 2023
Oct
21

Ballet 5:8 Gala 2023

ANNUAL GALA

We appreciate your support and want to celebrate with you. Join the Artists and Directors of Ballet 5:8 for an exclusive evening of insights into the future of Ballet 5:8.

Ballet 5:8 is on a mission to shape the future of dance and art, and we need your support to make it happen. We’re calling on you to be part of the Builder Generation, those who will lay the foundation for a lasting institution that provides purpose, backing, and sustenance to generations of future dancers and artists. Your contribution will breathe life into this vision, ensuring that creativity and talent thrive without bounds. By supporting Ballet 5:8, you’re investing in the limitless potential of our mission. Help us create art that sparks discussions of life and faith that will transcend time, making a powerful impact on the world of dance for generations to come.

We’d like to thank our restaurant partner Avli Taverna for their support of the 2023 Annual Gala.

WHEN & WHERE

The event will begin with a cocktail hour at approximately 4:30p in Athenaeum’s Paradiso Room on the first floor. The cocktail hour will follow directly after the 2:00 PM Performance of BareFace.

4:30PM | Cocktail reception

5:30PM | Dinner with Presentations by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Executive Director Jeremy Slager. Artists of Ballet 5:8 will be in attendance and will entertain guests at their tables for the duration of the event.

7:00 PM | Event Wrap-up

Location | Paradiso at The Athenaeum Center for Art & Culture

Dinner provided by Ballet 5:8 Restaurant Partner Avli Taverna

Table set by Avli Taverna

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BareFace at the Athenaeum | 10/21/23
Oct
21

BareFace at the Athenaeum | 10/21/23

Step into the mesmerizing world of BareFace, a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling. Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

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BareFace at the Athenaeum | 10/20/23
Oct
20

BareFace at the Athenaeum | 10/20/23

Step into the mesmerizing world of BareFace, a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling. Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

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BareFace at the Athenaeum | 10/18/23
Oct
18

BareFace at the Athenaeum | 10/18/23

Step into the mesmerizing world of BareFace, a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling. Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

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Hispanic Heritage Month at the Belvis Center
Oct
14

Hispanic Heritage Month at the Belvis Center

On October 14th at 1pm, join Ballet 5:8 for a brilliant performance at the Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center. As the longest standing Latino cultural center in the city of Chicago, this event marks a great opportunity to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. The event brings back beloved Ballet 5:8 favorites, Mi Familia and Dia de Los Vivos, as well as a sneak peek to the brand new work The Lost Women of Juarez.

The event is part of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events Neighborhood Cultural Spotlight series and will be free to attend for all of Chicago.

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BareFace Grand Rapids
Oct
7

BareFace Grand Rapids

“Rubio Slager’s choreography glows like chimes, leaving an enduring impact long after the wind has passed. The performance is nothing short of phenomenal.”

— D'onminique Boyd-Riley

 

WHEN

Saturday, October 7th | 7:00 PM

Lobby opens 30min before the performance

Talkback on stage immediately following

WHERE

Devos Center for Arts & Worship on the campus of Grand Rapids Christian High School

2300 Plymouth Avenue Southeast

Grand Rapids, MI, 49506

TICKETS | $10-$45

Step into the mesmerizing world of BareFace, a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling. Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

The power of human connection and relationships takes center stage in BareFace. Just as Cupid and Psyche longed for each other, the dancers’ movements intertwine and interact, portraying the intricacies of love, longing, and the universal desire for connection. “With technical precision and graceful beauty,” writes Kathy D. Hey from Third Coast Review, “the talented artists of Ballet 5:8's dance company convey a range of emotions, from moments of grief and longing to lighter moments of comedy.”

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Master Class with Julianna Rubio Slager
Sep
23

Master Class with Julianna Rubio Slager

Join us on September 23rd from 10:30a-12:30p for a Master Class at Ballet 5:8! As you move into the fall, it’s time to polish your soloist abilities. Hone your technique and learn a classical variation with expert ballet coach Julianna Rubio Slager.

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Wheaton College Artist Series
Sep
15

Wheaton College Artist Series

Join Ballet 5:8 at the Wheaton Artist Series in Wheaton, IL on September 15th, 2023. Presented in partnership with the Wade Center’s Muriel Fuller Endowment, this double-bill performance showcases the exceptional piano accompaniment by Daniel Paul Horn and Kyle Orth, adding a layer of richness to the artistic tapestry.

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Harris Fest
Sep
9

Harris Fest

Ballet 5:8 performs at the Pritzker Pavilion as a part of Harris Fest, celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Harris Theater for Music and Dance.

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Master Class with Julianna Rubio Slager
Aug
26

Master Class with Julianna Rubio Slager

Join us on August 26th from 10:30a-12p for a Master Class with Julianna Rubio Slager as you get ready for the school year to start! Experience a unique blend of classical ballet and 21st century dynamics alongside insights into the evolution of ballet in America.

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