Samuel Opsal | Mercy

Adapting to the current world situation, Ballet 5:8 has created new ballets designed for the outdoors! Learn about Julianna Rubio Slager’s Mercy from the artists themselves.

Solo Artist, Samuel Opsal

Q. What is special about Mercy?

A. Mercy shows a different side of Ballet 5:8, utilizing worship songs with lyrics as the backdrop for this high-energy piece that can be performed outside.

Q. Does the genre of music affect your dancing? How is dancing to a song with lyrics different from dancing to a classical piece?

A. The genre of music does affect my dancing in that there is an aspect of personifying the music with movement. In that way the music can change the intention or aesthetic, but for me the approach to learning the choreography doesn't really change based on the style of music.

Q. What do you focus on while you practice the choreography for this performance?

A. As this piece is brand new the focus while rehearsing is still centered around cleaning and clarifying the details of the choreography. However, I anticipate as the piece becomes more familiar there will be a shift towards finding more nuance in the the worship music and building the feeling of community inside the piece.

Q. What is your favorite part of Mercy?

A. The third section is comprised of mostly quartets. I really enjoy the feeling of camaraderie when dancing in a group of four and that section is also where Mercy starts to build towards the finale, which has a fun sense of anticipation.

Q. Why should someone go see Mercy?

A. Mercy is an energetic and worshipful piece that can be seen in an outdoor performance setting. Whether or not you have seen Ballet 5:8 perform before, Mercy is a great opportunity to see live dance and be uplifted with the beautiful connection of music and dance!