Sarah Clarke | 22/23 Season in Review

One of our Ballet 5:8 traditions at the end of each performance season is to ask the artists of the company to share some reflections with us. A special thank you to the artists of the company for sharing about their experiences in the 2022/23 Season.

Photo by Kristie Kahns.

Q. Pick one word to describe the 2022/23 Season. Why?

A. Cultivating. Between Living Room Series and BareFace, the company stretched its abilities and challenged boundaries, letting go of traditional ballet standards and opening up the possibilities for the future of dance.  

Q. Can you share a favorite moment from on- or off-stage?

A. One of my favorite moments from this season is from the Living Room Series premiere at Colvin House in downtown Chicago. After the performance, the audience was able to share some intimate memories from their own life, and the dancers would quickly create a short improvisation to recreate that memory or scene for them. It was so special to share something so simple yet impactful with the audience. 

Q. You performed many works this season! Does one stand out as the most meaningful or most notable for you personally? Why?

A. BareFace. Being able to play the character Orual in BareFace was such an incredible experience. Expanding and challenging my strengths and weaknesses as a professional dancer and artist. I have never dove into a character as much as I did for this ballet and it was fascinating to work alongside other brilliant artists who challenged and encouraged me through the tougher days and rehearsals. Definitely a season to remember! 

Q. What or who has inspired you this season?

A. My colleagues. Their constant support and encouragement gave me the stamina and determination to keep working and creating.

Q. What are you looking forward to next season?

A. I'm looking forward to continuing the process of pushing boundaries and exploring all the different ways we can reach the community and touch people's lives through story and movement.