The Power of New Works: Transforming Ballet for the 21st Century

Julianna Rubio Slager, the Artistic Director of Ballet 5:8, is dedicated to bringing fresh and dynamic work to her audience. Ballet, with its interplay of athleticism and poetry, demands intense training and emotional expression. Its unparalleled beauty nourishes the soul and stands as the pinnacle of art, incorporating and uniting various artistic disciplines. Today, we explore the significance of creating new ballet works, drawing inspiration from Julianna’s work, including the thoughts of Company Artist Miranda Rubio.

Reflecting Contemporary Society:

Traditionally, ballet drew inspiration from fairy tales and historical narratives that may seem disconnected from our modern world. However, through the creation of new works, ballet companies can address current social, political, and cultural issues. Miranda Rubio emphasizes the importance of art that reflects the present state of things, saying, "We can tell tales of the far off and old world, or we can talk about the here and now. What's happening in our neighborhoods and countries. I like art that reflects the current state of things and then hopes for a better future." New ballets become a powerful medium for engaging with the experiences and challenges of contemporary life, fostering empathy and a deeper connection between art and society.

Engaging New Audiences:

To ensure its survival, ballet must engage new audiences. Introducing new works bridges the gap between tradition and contemporary society, captivating a younger and more diverse audience. By infusing fresh perspectives, innovative movements, and unconventional narratives, ballet becomes accessible, relatable, and enticing to those who may have previously felt distant from it. Miranda Rubio explains the impact of new works on audience connection, stating, "I have never heard of anyone coming to one of our performances and walking away wishing they had not come! Art has the ability to heal and nourish the soul. It is worth taking the chance, and you may find that you enjoy and understand a good deal more than you might think."

Pushing Artistic Boundaries:

Experimentation lies at the heart of artistic growth. Ballet must push the boundaries of its artistry to remain relevant. By embracing new works, choreographers and dancers can explore uncharted territories, blending classical techniques with contemporary movements, music, and multimedia elements. This fusion breathes new life into the art form, allowing it to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing cultural landscape. Miranda Rubio highlights the transformative nature of new works, stating, "With creating new work, you walk into a room with nothing, as a dancer sometimes you don't even know what the vision is, then you leave afterward with a living breathing piece of art that exists in your body and mind alone."

Encouraging Collaboration:

The creation of new ballet works often involves collaborations with composers, visual artists, costume designers, and stage directors. These collaborative endeavors break down the barriers between different art forms, fostering creativity and innovation. Ballet becomes a conduit for interdisciplinary collaborations, inspiring a cross-pollination of ideas. The result is a harmonious synthesis of music, movement, visual aesthetics, and stagecraft that elevates the art form to new heights. Embracing collaboration expands ballet's artistic possibilities and enriches its storytelling capabilities.

Preserving Tradition and Heritage:

While embracing change and innovation, ballet must also honor its rich tradition and heritage. New works can be created in ways that pay homage to the classical roots of ballet while infusing them with new life. It is essential to carefully choose what elements to preserve and what to set aside, maintaining respect for the past while cultivating an exciting environment for artistic development.

Transcendent Beauty and Impact:

Ballet offers a refuge from the troubles of the world, providing a moment of stillness surrounded by transcendent beauty. Encountering profound beauty leaves a lasting impact, influencing individuals' outlook and actions. Miranda Rubio reflects on the power of ballet's beauty, saying, "There is a transcendent beauty in ballet that can't be found anywhere else. It has the power to impact your soul and make you think, question, and feel things you never thought you could."

Conclusion:

The creation of new ballet works is crucial for the growth and evolution of the art form. It allows ballet to reflect contemporary society, engage new audiences, push artistic boundaries, encourage collaboration, and preserve tradition. Through new works, ballet transcends perceived barriers, becoming a powerful medium that heals, inspires, and offers hope for a brighter future. As Miranda Rubio aptly states, "Ballet can touch souls, provide healing, and communicate the human experience. It's worth exploring, experiencing, and supporting."

Find a show near you to experience the new work at Ballet 5:8. If you can’t wait, you can stream ballets here.