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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Imagine Better
Join us at the Ohio Star Theater for a stunning mixed repertoire bill featuring new works and audience favorites. Witness the premiere of The Cave, by Julianna Rubio Slager and a new creation by guest choreographer Seyong Kim. Lost Women of Juarez and Wind have been heralded as some of Ballet 5:8’s most compelling work, and will round out this stunning evening of innovative storytelling and breathtaking dance.
Performances at 1pm and 7pm
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.
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.”
The Cave Mixed Repertoire Bill
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.
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
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.
Dance for Life
Ballet 5:8 will be performing Wind at the Annual Dance for Life Gala at the Auditorium Theater.
Showtime | 6:00 PM
Venue Details
Auditorium Theater
50 East Ida B. Wells Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
The Future is NOW
Experience the joyful movement of dynamic professionals and exceptional students as they gather to give us a glimpse of the future at Ballet 5:8. With choreography by Julianna Rubio Slager, Steve Rooks and new works by emerging choreographers, the performance is family-friendly and upbeat.
Showtime | 7:30 PM
Tickets | $15-$30
Pay What You Can Tickets Available
Venue Details
Lincoln Way East High School
201 Colorado Avenue
Frankfort, IL, 60423
Parking available on site.
Enter at Door #40 for the Performing Arts Center
6:30 PM | Box Office Opens
7:00 PM | House Opens
7:30 PM | Curtain
Late Seating not permitted
Elpis Dance Festival
A Family Friendly Free Event, Ballet 5:8 will perform at the Elpis Dance Festival 2024 in collaboration with Identity Performing Arts and other Chicagoland dance companies.
SummerFest Orland Park
Ballet 5:8 Artists will be performing at Oland Park’s SummerFest 2024 followed by a short mini-class. Come join us for a wonderful summer weekend of entertainment, games, and food.
Toymaker
TOYMAKER
MAY 25-26
LINCOLN-WAY WEST HIGH SCHOOL
Performances
May 25 | 2:00 PM
May 25 | 7:00 PM
May 26 | 3:00 PM
Step into the enchanting world of Toymaker, where the vibrant town of Marisol sets the stage for a captivating ballet created by Julianna Rubio Slager. Curiosity drives young Nadia to uncover the secrets of the legendary Toymaker, leading her on a mesmerizing quest. From the magical Woodlands to the Toymaker's workshop filled with exquisite, life-sized dolls, witness the moment they come alive and the turmoil that ensues. Set to the enchanting score by Leo Delibes, this ballet is an ode to the beloved classic, Coppélia.
As the dolls strive to become real like Nadia, they face the devious Mayor Kratz and a selfless act of love that changes everything. Experience the power of forgiveness and acceptance as the Toymaker extends an invitation to freedom, and join the talented students from across the United States who have come to dance at the School of Ballet 5:8 on an extraordinary journey filled with captivating choreography, evocative music, and the artistry of storytelling that will ignite your imagination and touch your heart.
Lost Women of Juárez
As a Resident Company at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, Ballet 5:8 presents Lost Women of Juarez, Wind, Counterpart, and The Sea is Flat.
The Lost Women of Juarez tells the story of thousands of women who have vanished in the borderland between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Julianna Rubio Slager, a Chicana with a deep personal connection to the story, approaches it with sensitivity, empathy, and authenticity. Through her vision, she will give life to the stories of these women, capturing their essence and the emotional journey they endured.
The Sea is Flat explores the capricious power of the sea and a divine presence that speaks order into chaos.
Wind is a mesmerizing ballet by renowned choreographer Steve Rooks, inspired by Alfonso Peduto’s music.
Counterpart is Julianna Rubio Slager’s breathtaking new pas de deux that transcends boundaries and ignites the imagination to reconsider the tension and thrill of equality.
Imagine Better | Bartlett Performing Arts Center
The Lost Women of Juarez tells the story of thousands of women who have vanished in the borderland between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez. Julianna Rubio Slager, a Chicana with a deep personal connection to the story, approaches it with sensitivity, empathy, and authenticity. Through her vision, she will give life to the stories of these women, capturing their essence and the emotional journey they endured.
The Sea is Flat explores the capricious power of the sea and a divine presence that speaks order into chaos.
Wind is a mesmerizing ballet by renowned choreographer Steve Rooks, inspired by Alfonso Peduto’s music.
Counterpart is Julianna Rubio Slager’s breathtaking new pas de deux that transcends boundaries and ignites the imagination to reconsider the tension and thrill of equality.
Spring Choral Concert at Trinity Christian College
The Spring Choral Concert will be held at 3 p.m. in the Ozinga Chapel auditorium on March 24th, 2023. The Concert features Ballet 5:8 and the Trinity Concert Choir, Gospel Choir, and Honors Ensemble. Admission is free and open to the public.
Emerging Artist Showcase
Experience an accessible performance created and presented by the Ballet 5:8 Studio Company, in the relaxed performance setting of the Ballet 5:8 Black Box.
Butterfly | Bowie Center for the Arts
Step into the transformative world of Butterfly, where the harmony of music, dance, and visual art create an unforgettable and deeply moving experience. Butterfly tells the story of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis and her student Helga Weiss in the Jewish ghetto of Terezin during the Holocaust. With a descendant of Holocaust survivors in the cast, the story is a deeply moving testimony to the resilience of the human spirit.
Golden Sessions at the Athenaeum Center
Ballet 5:8 & The Athenaeum Center Present
Golden Sessions
Step into the enchanting world of Golden Sessions, a masterpiece by choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager. This ballet, inspired by C.S. Lewis's profound exploration of love in his literary work The Four Loves, promises an extraordinary and uplifting experience for both dedicated Ballet 5:8 fans and newcomers alike.
Featuring a moving score by acclaimed composers John Adams, Oliver Davis, and Ezio Bosso, Golden Sessions breathes life into the intricate nuances of love through its exquisite classical choreography. The cast's exceptional performances create a synergy of music, movement, and emotion, leaving audiences deeply moved and inspired.
Embark on a transformative journey through the four distinct types of love: affection, friendship, romance, and charity. Golden Sessions challenges you to explore the depths and complexities of this universal emotion, touching your heart and expanding your understanding.
The captivating combination of music, movement, and Ballet 5:8's artistry will transport you to a world where love takes center stage. Prepare to be enthralled, uplifted, and inspired by this breathtaking ballet that celebrates the profound depths of human connection.
WHEN
Sunday, February 25 | 7:00 PM
6:00 PM | Lobby & Box Office Opens
6:30 PM | House Opens
7:00 PM | Curtain
SPECIAL EVENT | On Stage TalkBack will take place immediately post-performance
WHERE
Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture
2936 N Southport Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
Online ticket sales close two hours prior to the performance. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
Questions? Contact Ballet 5:8 at 312.725.4752 or info@balle58.org
Ballerina Ball
Step into a world of whimsy and enchantment at the extraordinary Ballerina Ball! This unforgettable event invites doting daddies and beautiful daughters, as well as marvelous mothers and handsome sons, to celebrate the magic of dance together.
Butterfly | Logan Center for the Arts
Butterfly originally premiered in 2019 on the eve of the pandemic and is a captivating production that includes music composed in the haunting confines of the Jewish ghetto of Terezin. Julianna Rubio Slager’s choreography infuses the story with raw emotion and echoes the melodies of the score. The ballet also features artwork created by the children of Terezin projected on the backdrop and immerses the audience in the horror and persistent hope of the Holocaust.
Butterfly returns to Chicago on February 11th at the Logan Center in Hyde Park. Ellington Nichols, a descendant of Holocaust survivors, will play the role of Helga Weiss.
Also in this bill are two World Premieres: Steve Rook’s Wind and Julianna Rubio Slager’s Counterpart.
Ballet 5:8 is excited to join the Logan Center as a Community Arts Partner for the 2023/24 Season.
Spring 2024 Preview Party
Join us for champagne, light fare, and excerpts from Ballet 5:8’s 2024 Spring Season. Be one of the first to view the Lost Women of Juarez, Wind, Counterpart and the Sea is Flat! Tickets are $10 and include the mini-performance as well as a meet and greet with the artists of Ballet 5:8.
Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East
LINCOLN-WAY EAST HIGH SCHOOL
Performances
December 16 | 2:00 PM
December 16 | 7:00 PM
December 17 | 3:00 PM
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist returns this season. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Immerse yourself in the magical choreography of Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, featuring the students of the School of Ballet 5:8 and Guest Artists from Ballet 5:8.
Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East
LINCOLN-WAY EAST HIGH SCHOOL
Performances
December 16 | 2:00 PM
December 16 | 7:00 PM
December 17 | 3:00 PM
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist returns this season. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Immerse yourself in the magical choreography of Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, featuring the students of the School of Ballet 5:8 and Guest Artists from Ballet 5:8.
Beyond the Nutcracker at Lincoln-Way East
LINCOLN-WAY EAST HIGH SCHOOL
Performances
December 16 | 2:00 PM
December 16 | 7:00 PM
December 17 | 3:00 PM
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist returns this season. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Immerse yourself in the magical choreography of Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, featuring the students of the School of Ballet 5:8 and Guest Artists from Ballet 5:8.
Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum
The South Suburbs’ Favorite Nutcracker and one of 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 Tea
A Sensory Friendly way to experience a holiday tradition.
Beyond the Nutcracker Tea brings the South Suburbs favorite Nutcracker to the accessible space of Ballet 5:8’s Studio Theatre. Small Audience sizes, no lighting effects, and flexible seating make it a perfect introduction to ballet for all audiences and for those who desire a sensory friendly experience.
Ballet 5:8 Gala 2023
ANNUAL GALA
We appreciate your support and want to celebrate with you. Join the Artists and Directors of Ballet 5:8 for an exclusive evening of insights into the future of Ballet 5:8.
Ballet 5:8 is on a mission to shape the future of dance and art, and we need your support to make it happen. We’re calling on you to be part of the Builder Generation, those who will lay the foundation for a lasting institution that provides purpose, backing, and sustenance to generations of future dancers and artists. Your contribution will breathe life into this vision, ensuring that creativity and talent thrive without bounds. By supporting Ballet 5:8, you’re investing in the limitless potential of our mission. Help us create art that sparks discussions of life and faith that will transcend time, making a powerful impact on the world of dance for generations to come.
We’d like to thank our restaurant partner Avli Taverna for their support of the 2023 Annual Gala.
WHEN & WHERE
The event will begin with a cocktail hour at approximately 4:30p in Athenaeum’s Paradiso Room on the first floor. The cocktail hour will follow directly after the 2:00 PM Performance of BareFace.
4:30PM | Cocktail reception
5:30PM | Dinner with Presentations by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Executive Director Jeremy Slager. Artists of Ballet 5:8 will be in attendance and will entertain guests at their tables for the duration of the event.
7:00 PM | Event Wrap-up
Location | Paradiso at The Athenaeum Center for Art & Culture
Dinner provided by Ballet 5:8 Restaurant Partner Avli Taverna
Table set by Avli Taverna
BareFace at the Athenaeum | 10/21/23
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.