Dear Friends and Supporters,
I am thrilled to share Ballet 5:8’s upcoming season—a season that I consider to be our finest one yet. Through powerful storytelling, rich history, and bold new creations that challenge, inspire, and uplift we aim to bring you the best in deeply thoughtful art. As we continue our mission of engaging audiences through innovative storytelling and breathtaking dance, I invite you to join us in celebrating faith, beauty, and the depth of the human experience through dance.
The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe
Inspired by Evermore by Harry Lee Poe, this full-length ballet reimagines Edgar Allan Poe’s journey through love, loss, and the haunting questions of his time. Shaped by the women who influenced his life—his mother, Eliza Poe, and his wife, Virginia Clemm—this production delves into Poe’s tormented genius, his literary masterpieces, and his ultimate search for grace. With gripping storytelling and striking choreography, The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe offers a breathtaking portrayal of a man wrestling with darkness and the hope of redemption.
Birthday Variations by Gerald Arpino
For the first time in our history, Ballet 5:8 will present a work by a legendary American choreographer: Birthday Variations by Gerald Arpino. Set to the dazzling music of Giuseppe Verdi, this masterful ballet showcases intricate footwork, playful elegance, and a celebration of classical technique. This milestone in our repertoire pays homage to ballet’s rich history while bringing a timeless classic to new audiences.
World Premiere by Stephanie Martinez
We are honored to welcome acclaimed choreographer Stephanie Martinez to create a new work for Ballet 5:8. Known for her dynamic and emotionally charged pieces, Martinez has crafted compelling works for companies nationwide, blending contemporary movement with masterful storytelling. Her new creation will be an exciting addition to our season, bringing her distinct artistic voice to our stage.
Bios Festival | Revealing the Stories of Chicago’s Women
This season, Ballet 5:8 presents the Bios Festival, a powerful showcase featuring new works by four female choreographers, including Silvita Diaz Brown and Julianna Rubio Slager. Each piece will tell the biographical stories of underrepresented women in the Chicago area, bringing their lives and legacies to the stage through the language of dance. This festival highlights the strength, resilience, and impact of these extraordinary women, ensuring their stories are honored and shared with the world.
World Premiere by Kevin Jenkins
Following the success of his first work with Ballet 5:8, Kevin Jenkins returns to create a second piece for our repertoire. Recognized for his innovative choreography and riveting movement vocabulary, Jenkins has been commissioned by renowned ballet companies across the country. His newest creation promises to be a captivating exploration of movement, music, and human connection.
The House on Mango Street
Ballet 5:8’s Second Company brings Sandra Cisneros’ The House on Mango Street to life in an evocative ballet that follows young Esperanza Cordero’s coming-of-age journey in a vibrant yet restrictive Chicago neighborhood. Through powerful movement and compelling storytelling, this production highlights themes of cultural identity, resilience, and the strength of women’s voices. Partnering with Raíces and Chicago Public Library to bring this project to life at the Logan Center.
La Llorona – A Compassionate Reimagining of a Mexican Legend
Ballet 5:8 presents La Llorona, a poignant ballet that reinterprets the classic Mexican myth through the lens of postpartum depression. In partnership with the National Museum of Mexican Art and RAICES Chicago Story Coalition, this groundbreaking work fosters awareness and empathy, honoring Mexican heritage while addressing the silent struggles of new mothers. Touring across Illinois and beyond, La Llorona is a moving call for understanding and support.
BareFace Returns – A Theatrical Ballet with a C.S. Lewis Conference
Our acclaimed production of BareFace, inspired by C.S. Lewis’ Till We Have Faces, returns for another season. This stunning reimagining of the myth of Psyche and Cupid explores themes of love, faith, and redemption. Paired with a C.S. Lewis conference, this event invites audiences into a deeper exploration of Lewis’ philosophical and literary vision.
Beyond the Nutcracker – A New Collaborative Production
This season, Beyond the Nutcracker will take on a new life, performed as a collaboration between our professional company and school. Featuring live music and a larger community cast, this production celebrates the joy of the holiday season while continuing to inspire audiences with its unique storytelling and cultural depth.
At Ballet 5:8, we believe in the power of storytelling through dance, and this season is a milestone achievement in our journey toward world-class, thought-provoking, beautifully crafted works. Whether you are a longtime supporter or new to our audience, we invite you to experience these extraordinary ballets with us.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support makes it possible for us to continue creating, inspiring, and sharing the transformative power of ballet.
With gratitude,
Julianna Rubio Slager
Artistic Director, Ballet 5:8
Community Cultural Arts Partnership
We are excited to continue with the Logan Center for the Arts this season to present our Emerging Artist Showcase featuring our Trainee and Conservatory dancers!
