Welcoming Sophia Snider
Introducing our new dancers! Congratulations to each artist joining the brand new Ballet 5:8 Second Company for the 2020/21 Season.
Sophia Snider, Second Company
Q. Where will you be coming to Ballet 5:8 from?
A. I've danced with Ballet 5:8 School of the Arts since its inaugural season in 2012. I was born in Chicago and have lived right here in New Lenox, IL, my whole life.
Q. What attracted you to Ballet 5:8?
A. Ballet 5:8’s mission, to engage communities across the nation in conversation of life and faith through dance, perfectly exemplifies my love for dance and my love of Christ. This company combines my desire to spread the Gospel and my calling to use the gifting God has given me. I want to be able to use excellent ballet to point others to Christ, which aligns with the mission and vision of Ballet 5:8.
Q. Why do you dance?
A. Dancing is not only a beautiful art form, but an act of worship. To put it simply, when I dance, I am joyful! I love ballet. I enjoy challenging myself technically and pushing my limits physically to see how fast my petite allegro can be or how high my jumps can go. I am most drawn to the artistry and individuality that grows out of my technique. My expression through dance is a way I glorify the Lord.
Q. What is something you enjoy about Chicago or think you'll enjoy about Chicago?
A. Having grown up in the South Chicago suburbs, I have truly enjoyed living near a large city that is full of art. Walking Michigan Avenue, visiting the Art Institute, attending a Royal Ballet performance in the Auditorium Theatre, posing for a picture by the Bean… Chicago is a diverse city and I enjoy exploring all that it has to offer.
Q. What is one thing people will be surprised to learn about you?
A. I assisted in teaching a pre-ballet class to a small group of boys and girls in Ecuador, South America, when I was on a mission trip with my church.
Q. What are you most looking forward to about the coming performance season?
A. I cannot wait to be back in the studios rehearsing and learning Julianna Slager’s repertory. I am looking forward to a season of growth while also being excited to take ballets on tour and share them with people in Chicago, the Midwest, and across the nation.