Featuring choreography by Glorielle Niedfeldt and Julianna Rubio Slager, Ballet 5:8 will tell a little known perspective on Poe. The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe offers a breathtaking portrayal of a man wrestling with darkness and redemption. His story takes place in the midst of rising tensions, as Americans wrestle with slavery and the brink of war.

Step into the mesmerizing world of BareFace, a fresh and enthralling dance production that delves deep into thought-provoking themes and evocative storytelling. Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.

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. This production highlights themes of cultural identity, resilience, and the strength of women’s voices.

This season, Beyond the Nutcracker will take on a new life, performed as a collaboration between our professional company and school. Featuring live music by the Illinois Philharmonic at select shows, 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.

Building on BareFace’s momentum, The Thick & the Clear is a conference on C.S. Lewis and the Arts. We invite you into a weekend of exploration—where art is thick with meaning and clear with grace. We’ll have discussion, lectures and deep exploration, culminating in the performance of BareFace.