Kennedy Ditzhazy | Dry Bones

A celebration of our hope in God, Dry Bones tells the epic ancient story of the Valley of Dry Bones from the Book of Ezekiel. Hear what the Ballet 5:8 artists have to say about this innovative new ballet by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager.

Kennedy Ditzhazy, Company Artist

Q: What has stood out to you the most about the choreography of Dry Bones? How is Dry Bones different from other ballets in the Ballet 5:8 repertoire?

A: The choreography for Dry Bones is unlike anything you'd expect! It's daring, edgy, and bold, and differs from any other piece of Ballet 5:8 repertoire I've performed. Each movement is inspired by the bones of a skeleton, which the audience will immediately recognize as the stage lights turn on and music sounds. Also, the music drives the movement quality with beating drums, crashing noises, and even audible breath. It's so much fun!

Q: What does the story of the Valley of Dry Bones mean to you? How do you convey this meaning through your dancing?

A: This piece reminds me that God's not done with any one of us. His love and constant pursuit of His children can lift us up out of the grave state we may find ourselves living in. No matter how 'dry' our spiritual walk might be, He can still resurrect and revive any and all of it. He makes all things new, which I try to convey in my dancing by drastically contrasting my beginning movement quality with the end.

Q: Why should audience members see Dry Bones?

A: Come see Dry Bones because it's a piece that'll get your attention from the very start. As dancers, we're not afraid to portray dry bones coming back to life in the most bold and vivid ways possible, so it's a show you won't want to miss!

To learn more, visit ballet58.org/fallseries.