Meet the Characters | Reckless

Hear from the dancers about the characters they are portraying in Julianna Rubio Slager’s newest work, Reckless. Solo Artist Olivia Kruse shares about her character.

1. What role/character will you be dancing in Reckless?

In Reckless, I’m dancing as part of the Greek chorus.   

2. How did you research/prepare for your role? What is something that stood out to you in your research? 

Something that stood out to me in researching and preparing for this role is that sex trafficking is a relevant and prevalent issue in today’s society. It’s not as hidden as one might think—a stranger passing by in the grocery store, or someone sitting next to you on the Metra train could be struggling. 

3. Describe the movement/style of the choreography. Is it different/the same as what you've done before? What is the most challenging aspect of the ballet?

The movement is contemporary, edgy, and raw. It evokes guttural, emotional reactions, which definitely places a challenge on us dancers to make sure we’re delivering the correct portrayals.

It’s also been really rewarding to dance in the Greek chorus, which is similar to the traditional corps de ballet. It is a fun challenge to try to convey one strong voice to the audience, as each of us in the Greek chorus are also playing our own respective characters. 

4. Why should audiences see Reckless? 

Reckless is a story of struggle and hope. Reckless reminds us that, through the hills and valleys, God’s love is always with us.