Dancer Fun Facts | Valerie Linsner

Get to know the professional artists of Ballet 5:8 as we ask them about their hometowns, favorite dance memories, and people who helped them succeed.

Valerie in Champaign Urbana Ballet’s The Sleeping Beauty. Photo by Darrell Hoemann

Where is your hometown? What is it like?

I'm from a town in east-central Illinois called Champaign. It's most well-known for being the college town of the University of Illinois, so odds are if you run into someone on the street, they're related to the U of I in some way. Apart from downtown and the campus town, it's pretty rural -- lots of corn and soybeans, but my favorite part of visiting home is the easily viewed sunsets.

Is there one person that helped you get where you are today? If so, tell us a little about them and your journey.

The first person who comes to mind is Deanna Doty, my ballet teacher in Champaign. After her own professional ballet career, she started a small ballet school and pre-professional performing company which is now in its 22nd year. I trained and performed with her from the time I was seven until I came to Ballet 5:8. I'm very grateful for her care and support!

What is one favorite or funny memory from your years of dance training?

I'm reminded of lots of laughter with my ballet friends! In addition to those sweet times, one of my favorite memories is from performing The Sleeping Beauty. It was my first principal role and opening night was sheer bliss thanks to A LOT of hard work and my excellent partner! That ballet still holds a very special place in my heart.

What is your favorite thing about summer in Chicago? Do you have a favorite place to visit?

I love walking along Lake Michigan. There's just something about the open sky and expansive water that takes my breath away every time. It's beautiful and even better when shared with friends.

Last thing—what in the upcoming 2021/22 season are you most excited for?

There are so many things I'm looking forward to doing this season, but one of them is getting back on the road and touring Reckless!