Master Class with Rachel Hutsell
Join us for a Master Class with former New York City Ballet dancer Rachel Hutsell. Intermediate and Advanced dancers welcome. Classes held at Ballet 5:8’s studios.
10 - 11:30a Technique
11:30 - 12:30p Variations
Special price of $40 for both classes. Register here.
Dress Code:
Women | Solid Colored Leotard, pink or flesh toned tights with corresponding shoes
Men | White leotard or fitted t-shirt, black tights and black shoes, or black tights, white socks and white shoes.
Struggle & Resilience
Join Ballet 5:8, Overshadowed and a host of Chicago artists on March 1st at the Kehrein Center for a groundbreaking festival honoring the pivotal intersection of Black History Month and Women's History Month. Delve into the rich tapestry of movement and expression as Ballet 5:8 presents The Caged Bird Sings in collaboration with Overshadowed, alongside Tobin James' work, Transcendence. Experience the power, grace, and resilience of Black and Latina women through captivating performances that resonate with history, culture, and the spirit of empowerment. Don't miss this momentous celebration of diversity, creativity, and the transformative power of dance.
Emerging Artist Showcase
Join dancers from the Second Company and Studio Company of Ballet 5:8 for a special performance. This evening of dance features choreography created and performed by our talented students.
The Space in Between Mixed Repertoire Bill
Join us at Connection Church in Canton, MI for a stunning mixed repertoire bill featuring new works and audience favorites. Witness the premiere of The Cave and Celestia by Julianna Rubio Slager, as well as a new creation by guest choreographer Seyong Kim. The Space in Between is based on C.S. Lewis’ The Great Divorce, this stunning performance is a Ballet 5:8 classic and will round out this unforgettable evening of innovative storytelling and breathtaking dance.
Performance at 3PM.
THREE WORLD PREMIERES IN ONE SHOW Join us for a mesmerizing journey of "The Cave," a profound tale derived from Plato's ancient allegory. Choreographed by Julianna Rubio Slager, this ballet transports audiences into a society confined within the rocky walls of a cave, their existence limited to the shadows dancing before them. The Cave invites audiences to ponder the power of perception and the pursuit of truth.
In the heart's rhythm, where words meet motion, Overshadowed and Ballet 5:8 unite to breathe life into The Caged Bird Sings. Take flight with a dance of liberation and resilience. With each step, each word, we honor the journey of the caged bird, yearning to break free from the constraints of silence. Join us on this sacred voyage, where poetry and movement intertwine, echoing the spirit of my timeless anthem. Together, we rise, dance, and sing the song of freedom.
Corinthians 13:13 and Bach’s Pas de Six by Seyong Kim, "In this collaboration with Ballet 5:8, I aspire to achieve an artistic synergy that transcends cultural boundaries and emphasizes peaceful coexistence in our contemporary, globalized society. Through an interpretive lens grounded in Christian values, we shall fuse our distinct creative voices into a harmonious, profound, and holistic artistic expression.
Finally, this performance features the return of the Ballet 5:8 classic "The Space in Between" as the final performance of Lead Artist Lorianne Robertson. Drawing inspiration from The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis, "The Space in Between" explores the nature of eternity and the joy found on its shores. In Lewis’ work, Hell is not a place where a vengeful God tortures his victims, but a place “where the gates are locked from the inside.”
Of Light and Shadow
A stunning mixed repertoire bill at the Harris Theater featuring new work and audience favorites. Celebrate with us as we honor the eleven year career of Lead Artist Lorianne Robertson. The evening features Rubio Slager’s newest works The Cave and Celestia, as well as a new work by Seyong Kim. Lorianne Robertson stars in the final ballet of the evening, audience favorite The Space in Between. Based on C.S. Lewis’ The Great Divorce, this ballet has not been onstage since 2019 and showcases the remarkable expressive power of Ballet 5:8’s dancers.
Please Note: Tickets for Of Light and Shadow are sold through The Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Please visit their website to purchase. Tickets through Ballet 5:8’s box office are only available for members.
THREE WORLD PREMIERES IN ONE SHOW Join us for a mesmerizing journey of "The Cave," a profound tale derived from Plato's ancient allegory. Choreographed by Julianna Rubio Slager, this ballet transports audiences into a society confined within the rocky walls of a cave, their existence limited to the shadows dancing before them. The Cave invites audiences to ponder the power of perception and the pursuit of truth.
Enter the ethereal realm of Julianna Rubio Slager’s latest masterpiece, "Celestia." Traverse the boundless expanse of the cosmos as we contemplate the enduring beauty, eternity, and transcendence of the stars. Rubio Slager brings us back to earth drawing parallels between the stars and our souls, each a unique and matchless creation. Ponder the infinite depths within and beyond in "Celestia."
World Premiere by Seyong Kim, "In this collaboration with Ballet 5:8, I aspire to achieve an artistic synergy that transcends cultural boundaries and emphasizes peaceful coexistence in our contemporary, globalized society. Through an interpretive lens grounded in Christian values, we shall fuse our distinct creative voices into a harmonious, profound, and holistic artistic expression.
Finally, this performance features the return of the Ballet 5:8 classic "The Space in Between" as the final performance of Lead Artist Lorianne Robertson. Drawing inspiration from The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis, "The Space in Between" explores the nature of eternity and the joy found on its shores. In Lewis’ work, Hell is not a place where a vengeful God tortures his victims, but a place “where the gates are locked from the inside.”
Cinder Ella | School of Ballet 5:8
This spring, The School Ballet 5:8 and guest artists from Ballet 5:8 will present a brand new story ballet Cinder Ella. Our story centers around Ella, an orphan who is tasked with tending the fire at her stepmother’s home. The fire has scarred her face and arms, and she is seen by those around her as an ugly and unremarkable child. However, Ella’s beauty lies deep within, and is brought to radiant life through an unexpected encounter with the magic of the Giving Tree planted by her mother. Set to the stunning Prokofiev score, you’ll experience the enchantment of Ella's journey, where true beauty shines from within. Join The School of Ballet 5:8 for an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of kindness and character. With a cast of over 300 students and choreography set by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, you’ll be swept away by this classic and delightful story.
May 24th at 2pm and 7pm
May 25th at 3pm
Cinder Ella | School of Ballet 5:8
This spring, The School Ballet 5:8 and guest artists from Ballet 5:8 will present a brand new story ballet Cinder Ella. Our story centers around Ella, an orphan who is tasked with tending the fire at her stepmother’s home. The fire has scarred her face and arms, and she is seen by those around her as an ugly and unremarkable child. However, Ella’s beauty lies deep within, and is brought to radiant life through an unexpected encounter with the magic of the Giving Tree planted by her mother. Set to the stunning Prokofiev score, you’ll experience the enchantment of Ella's journey, where true beauty shines from within. Join The School of Ballet 5:8 for an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of kindness and character. With a cast of over 300 students and choreography set by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, you’ll be swept away by this classic and delightful story.
May 24th at 2pm and 7pm
May 25th at 3pm
Cinder Ella | School of Ballet 5:8
This spring, The School Ballet 5:8 and guest artists from Ballet 5:8 will present a brand new story ballet Cinder Ella. Our story centers around Ella, an orphan who is tasked with tending the fire at her stepmother’s home. The fire has scarred her face and arms, and she is seen by those around her as an ugly and unremarkable child. However, Ella’s beauty lies deep within, and is brought to radiant life through an unexpected encounter with the magic of the Giving Tree planted by her mother. Set to the stunning Prokofiev score, you’ll experience the enchantment of Ella's journey, where true beauty shines from within. Join The School of Ballet 5:8 for an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of kindness and character. With a cast of over 300 students and choreography set by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, you’ll be swept away by this classic and delightful story.
May 24th at 2pm and 7pm
May 25th at 3pm
Ballerina Ball
10:00 AM and 2:00 PM at the Ballet 5:8 Orland Park Campus
Join us for a captivating caregiver and child core memory experience! This special day includes a performance by the Studio Company of Ballet 5:8, caregiver/child dance lesson, photo booth, craft, activities and dessert!
Don't wait to step into a world of whimsy and magic at the extraordinary Ballerina Ball! Invite doting daddies, beautiful daughters, marvelous mothers, and handsome sons to celebrate the magic of dance together. Be sure to secure your tickets as they will sell out!
The Caged Bird Sings
In the heart's rhythm, where words meet motion, Overshadowed and Ballet 5:8 unite to breathe life into The Caged Bird Sings. Take flight with a dance of liberation and resilience. With each step, each word, we honor the journey of the caged bird, yearning to break free from the constraints of silence. Join us on this sacred voyage, where poetry and movement intertwine, echoing the spirit of my timeless anthem. Together, we rise, dance, and sing the song of freedom.
Performances at 2pm and 7:30pm
The Caged Bird Sings
In the heart's rhythm, where words meet motion, Overshadowed and Ballet 5:8 unite to breathe life into The Caged Bird Sings. Take flight with a dance of liberation and resilience. With each step, each word, we honor the journey of the caged bird, yearning to break free from the constraints of silence. Join us on this sacred voyage, where poetry and movement intertwine, echoing the spirit of my timeless anthem. Together, we rise, dance, and sing the song of freedom.
Performances at 2pm and 7:30pm
2025 Spring Preview Party
Spring 2025 Preview Party
Date: January 25, 2025
Time: 7:30–9:00 PM
Location: Ballet 5:8 Studios | Black Box
Be among the first to glimpse the magic of Ballet 5:8's 2025 Spring Season at our exclusive Spring Preview Party!
Highlights of the Evening:
Enjoy excerpts from our highly anticipated productions: Cinder Ella, The Caged Bird Sings, Celestia, and a stunning New Work by Seyong Kim.
Hear behind-the-scenes insights from the creators and artists as they share their inspiration and vision for these upcoming ballets.
Take advantage of an exclusive 25% discount on Spring Performance tickets available only to Preview Party attendees.
New merchandise roll out, with 25% discount for attendees
Your Experience Includes:
A delightful charcuterie reception with the artists of Ballet 5:8.
Fine wine and light fare in an intimate, creative setting.
Tickets: $10 per person
Your ticket includes the mini-performance, reception, and the chance to connect with the artistry and community behind Ballet 5:8.
Space is limited, so don’t miss this unique opportunity to preview the season, meet the artists, and secure your tickets at a special rate!
Ballet 5:8 Audition | South Chicago
South Chicago, January 25th, 2025
Join us for an audition and master class taught by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager in the gorgeous Ballet 5:8 studios!
Registration: 9:30-10a
Audition Class en Pointe: 10-11:30a
Parent Q&A: 11:30-12p
Ages 10+, if dancers are en pointe they will be asked to do pointe work during the audition. $40 registration fee due at the time of registration to reserve a space in the class.
Ballet 5:8 Audition | Birmingham
Birmingham, January 18th, 2025
Join us for an audition and master class taught by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager in the beautiful Briarwood Ballet studios!
Registration: 9:30-10a
Audition Class en Pointe: 10-11:30a
Parent Q&A: 11:30-12:00p
Ages 10+, if dancers are en pointe they will be asked to do pointe work during the audition. $40 registration fee due at the time of registration to reserve a space in the class.
Ballet 5:8 Audition | Detroit
Detroit, January 11th, 2025
Join us for an audition and master class taught by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager in the beautiful Northville Ballet studios!
Registration: 9:30-10a
Audition Class en Pointe: 10-11:30a
Parent Q&A: 11:30-12p
Ages 10+, if dancers are en pointe they will be asked to do pointe work during the audition. $40 registration fee due at the time of registration to reserve a space in the class.
Ballet 5:8 Audition | Nashville
Nashville, January 4th, 2025
Join us for an audition and master class taught by School Principal Miranda Rubio Opsal at Nashville Ballet in the beautiful state of Tennessee.
Registration: 2:30-3:00p
Audition Class: 3-4:30p
Parent Q&A: 4:30-5:00p
Ages 10+, if dancers are en pointe they will be asked to do pointe work during the audition. $40 registration fee due at the time of registration to reserve a space in the class.
Ballet 5:8 Audition | School of American Ballet
New York City, January 4th, 2025
Join us for an audition and master class taught by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager in the heart of NYC at the School of American Ballet.
Registration: 9:30-10a
Audition Class en Pointe: 10-11:30a
Ages 12+, dancers must be en pointe to audition. $40 registration fee due at the time of registration to reserve a space in the class.
School of Ballet 5:8 | Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln Way East
Pointe Magazine’s top ten Nutcrackers to see in Chicago!
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
School of Ballet 5:8 | Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln Way East
Pointe Magazine’s top ten Nutcrackers to see in Chicago!
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
School of Ballet 5:8 | Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln Way East
Pointe Magazine’s top ten Nutcrackers to see in Chicago!
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum
Pointe Magazine’s top ten Nutcrackers to see in Chicago!
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum
Pointe Magazine’s top ten Nutcrackers to see in Chicago!
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum
Pointe Magazine’s top ten Nutcrackers to see in Chicago!
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Athenaeum BTN Tea
Beyond the Nutcracker Tea: A Sensory-Friendly Holiday Adventure
Step into the enchanting world of Beyond the Nutcracker with Ballet 5:8’s sensory-friendly tea party! This 60-minute performance invites children and families to experience holiday magic with all the joy of dance and none of the usual restrictions. Held at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., this delightful event brings ballet to life with an atmosphere that welcomes little ones to move, clap, and dance along as they wish!
Beyond the Nutcracker
Beyond the Nutcracker Tea: A Sensory-Friendly Holiday Adventure
Step into the enchanting world of Beyond the Nutcracker with Ballet 5:8’s sensory-friendly tea party! This 60-minute performance invites children and families to experience holiday magic with all the joy of dance and none of the usual restrictions. Held at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., this delightful event brings ballet to life with an atmosphere that welcomes little ones to move, clap, and dance along as they wish!
Beyond the Nutcracker TEA
Beyond the Nutcracker Tea: A Sensory-Friendly Holiday Adventure
Step into the enchanting world of Beyond the Nutcracker with Ballet 5:8’s sensory-friendly tea party! This 60-minute performance invites children and families to experience holiday magic with all the joy of dance and none of the usual restrictions. Held at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., this delightful event brings ballet to life with an atmosphere that welcomes little ones to move, clap, and dance along as they wish!
RAICES Latine Voices of Resilience Workshop
As many as 1 in 5 birthing people in the US experience Postpartum Depression (PPD). Studies show that Latines are at greater risk of experiencing PPD.
Have you experienced PPD and want to help raise awareness?
Lamentations | with CHICAGO a cappella
Experience the evocative collaboration between Chicago a cappella and Ballet 5:8, weaving the narrative of lamentations through the haunting melodies of Thomas Tallis’ “Lamentations of Jeremiah”. Through contemporary movement and soul-stirring harmonies, delve into the depths of human emotion as grief, longing, and hope unfold before your eyes. Don't miss this powerful performance, where the raw beauty of lamentations finds its voice through song and dance.
La Llorona | Chicago
The Harris Theater for Music and Dance
Performances
October 5th | 7:30 PM
October 6th | 3:00 PM
Step into the Mexican myth of "La Llorona," where choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager reinterprets Maria’s journey through a lens of compassion and nuance. The story follows Maria, a new mother consumed by suspicions of her husband's infidelity, as she navigates the tumultuous waters of despair and mental anguish. Through Slager's masterful choreography and storytelling, Maria's journey is imbued with warmth and empathy, transforming what could be a tragic tale into one filled with hope and renewal. As audiences are drawn into Maria's harrowing struggles, they are confronted with the harsh realities of postpartum depression and are filled with tender empathy for her family. With each poignant movement and evocative scene, "La Llorona" sheds light on the silent struggles faced by new mothers, fostering empathy, understanding, and a call to action for greater awareness and support.
According to the NIH, 6.5-20% of new mothers face this silent struggle due to a lack of awareness hindering them from seeking help. Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager, a mother of three, intimately understands these challenges. In her latest work, La Llorona, she reimagines the Mexican myth through a compassionate modern lens. Follow Maria, a new mother driven to despair by suspicions of her husband's infidelity, as she grapples with overwhelming darkness. Rather than succumbing to tragedy, Maria's journey becomes a poignant portrayal of a depressive episode. Ultimately Maria, her husband, and community learn to care for each other as they battle Maria’s mental illness. Through powerful storytelling, the ballet intertwines mythology with a crucial message, raising awareness for postpartum depression, especially among minority communities.
Featuring a performance by the all-female Mariachi Sirenas.
Performance Event Details
Harris Theater for Music and Dance
205 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
Questions? Contact Ballet 5:8 at 312.725.4752 or info@balle58.org
Performance Schedule
Lobby, box office, and will call opens | 6PM
Performance | 7:30-9:30 PM including intermission
Talk Back (open to all audience members) | 9:30-10 PM
Tickets are available at the door.
Lamentations | with CHICAGO a cappella
Experience the evocative collaboration between Chicago a cappella and Ballet 5:8, weaving the narrative of lamentations through the haunting melodies of Thomas Tallis’ “Lamentations of Jeremiah”. Through contemporary movement and soul-stirring harmonies, delve into the depths of human emotion as grief, longing, and hope unfold before your eyes. Don't miss this powerful performance, where the raw beauty of lamentations finds its voice through song and dance.
La Llorona | Chicago
The Harris Theater for Music and Dance
Performances
October 5th | 7:30 PM
October 6th | 3:00 PM
Step into the Mexican myth of "La Llorona," where choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager reinterprets Maria’s journey through a lens of compassion and nuance. The story follows Maria, a new mother consumed by suspicions of her husband's infidelity, as she navigates the tumultuous waters of despair and mental anguish. Through Slager's masterful choreography and storytelling, Maria's journey is imbued with warmth and empathy, transforming what could be a tragic tale into one filled with hope and renewal. As audiences are drawn into Maria's harrowing struggles, they are confronted with the harsh realities of postpartum depression and are filled with tender empathy for her family. With each poignant movement and evocative scene, "La Llorona" sheds light on the silent struggles faced by new mothers, fostering empathy, understanding, and a call to action for greater awareness and support.
According to the NIH, 6.5-20% of new mothers face this silent struggle due to a lack of awareness hindering them from seeking help. Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager, a mother of three, intimately understands these challenges. In her latest work, La Llorona, she reimagines the Mexican myth through a compassionate modern lens. Follow Maria, a new mother driven to despair by suspicions of her husband's infidelity, as she grapples with overwhelming darkness. Rather than succumbing to tragedy, Maria's journey becomes a poignant portrayal of a depressive episode. Ultimately Maria, her husband, and community learn to care for each other as they battle Maria’s mental illness. Through powerful storytelling, the ballet intertwines mythology with a crucial message, raising awareness for postpartum depression, especially among minority communities.
Featuring a performance by the all-female Mariachi Sirenas.
And a big thank you to our stage sponsor and caterer for the 2024 Annual Gala.
Performance Event Details
Harris Theater for Music and Dance
205 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
Questions? Contact Ballet 5:8 at 312.725.4752 or info@balle58.org
Performance Schedule
Lobby, box office, and will call opens | 6PM
Performance | 7:30-9:30 PM including intermission
Talk Back (open to all audience members) | 9:30-10 PM
Tickets are available at the door.
Gala 2024
Do you love a night out with a good meal and great conversation? Have you ever wanted to talk to our artists in person? Do you want to learn what Ballet 5:8’s vision is long term? Do you want to hear more about the history and ongoing mission of the organization? If so, the annual Gala is the perfect opportunity to get a peek behind the curtain.
Can’t make it? You can still support Ballet 5:8 with a tax-deductible donation.
Lamentations | with CHICAGO a cappella
Experience the evocative collaboration between Chicago a cappella and Ballet 5:8, weaving the narrative of lamentations through the haunting melodies of Thomas Tallis’ “Lamentations of Jeremiah”. Through contemporary movement and soul-stirring harmonies, delve into the depths of human emotion as grief, longing, and hope unfold before your eyes. Don't miss this powerful performance, where the raw beauty of lamentations finds its voice through song and dance.
Lamentations | with CHICAGO a cappella
Experience the evocative collaboration between Chicago a cappella and Ballet 5:8, weaving the narrative of lamentations through the haunting melodies of Thomas Tallis’ “Lamentations of Jeremiah”. Through contemporary movement and soul-stirring harmonies, delve into the depths of human emotion as grief, longing, and hope unfold before your eyes. Don't miss this powerful performance, where the raw beauty of lamentations finds its voice through song and dance.
La Llorona | Twin Cities
Saturday, September 21st | 7PM | The Ames Center | Burnsville, MN
Step into the Mexican myth of "La Llorona," where choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager reinterprets Maria’s journey through a lens of compassion and nuance. The story follows Maria, a new mother consumed by suspicions of her husband's infidelity, as she navigates the tumultuous waters of despair and mental anguish. Through Slager's masterful choreography and storytelling, Maria's journey is imbued with warmth and empathy, transforming what could be a tragic tale into one filled with hope and renewal. As audiences are drawn into Maria's harrowing struggles, they are confronted with the harsh realities of postpartum depression and are filled with tender empathy for her family. With each poignant movement and evocative scene, "La Llorona" sheds light on the silent struggles faced by new mothers, fostering empathy, understanding, and a call to action for greater awareness and support.
According to the NIH, 6.5-20% of new mothers face this silent struggle due to a lack of awareness hindering them from seeking help. Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager, a mother of three, intimately understands these challenges. In her latest work, La Llorona, she reimagines the Mexican myth through a compassionate modern lens. Follow Maria, a new mother driven to despair by suspicions of her husband's infidelity, as she grapples with overwhelming darkness. Rather than succumbing to tragedy, Maria's journey becomes a poignant portrayal of a depressive episode. Ultimately Maria, her husband, and community learn to care for each other as they battle Maria’s mental illness. Through powerful storytelling, the ballet intertwines mythology with a crucial message, raising awareness for postpartum depression, especially among minority communities.
Performance Event Details
Saturday, September 21st | 7PM | The Ames Center
12600 Nicollet Avenue Burnsville, MN 55337
Questions? Contact Ballet 5:8 at 312.725.4752 or info@balle58.org
Performance Schedule
Lobby, box office, and will call opens | 6PM
Performance | 7-9PM including intermission
Talk Back (open to all audience members) | 9-9:30PM
Tickets are available at the door.
Daley Plaza Noontime Performance
Join us for an afternoon treat on your lunch break at the Richard J. Daley Center Plaza on August 29th, for a noontime performance.
This performance is free to the public and is made possible by Ballet 5:8’s donors and sponsors.
Wave Wall Moves at Navy Pier
In partnership with See Chicago Dance and Navy Pier see Ballet 5:8 as a part of the Wave Wall Moves series.
Live on the Lawn
Join Ballet 5:8 at the New Lenox Commons for their final week of Live on the Lawn. 6:00 PM performance.