Ballet 5:8 Presents A Celebration of Black and Latina Women in the Arts at the Kehrein Center for the Arts
by Felicia Apprey
The Ballet 5:8 is set to unveil “Struggle and Resilience: Celebrating Black and Latina Women in the Arts,” an innovative evening of dance, spoken word, and music that aims to spotlight the impactful narratives of women traditionally underrepresented in classical ballet. On March 1, 2025, at the Kehrein Center for the Arts, this compelling production seeks to confront and reshape the landscape of the artistic community in Chicago.
Reclaiming Ballet’s Voice in Chicago
In a city whose major ballet institutions have historically been dominated by white men, “Struggle and Resilience” dares to challenge the status quo. Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager emphasizes the importance of elevating the voices of Black and Latina women within the arts, stating, “We are not here to be displayed once a year in a program. We’re a vital part of this city’s artistic ecosystem, and we’re here to stay.”
The event features a powerful lineup of works by visionary Black and Latina women, promising to weave together stories of struggle and empowerment:
The Caged Bird Sings: A multidisciplinary ballet set to music by Kady Debelak and choreographed by Slager, inspired by Maya Angelou’s enduring poem.
Transcendence by Tobin James: A ballet reflecting the perseverance of the human spirit.
What’s a Woman Worth by Quina Aragon: A collaboration of spoken word and movement exploring themes of identity and strength.
A New Work by Rachel Hutsell: This former New York City Ballet dancer offers an innovative take on modern womanhood.
A New Work by Brittany Bradley: An electrifying celebration of individuality and cultural expression from a Chicago street dance artist.
Frida Kahlo Solo by Silvita Diaz Brown: A poignant piece inspired by Kahlo’s life that embodies the intersection of pain, resilience, and creativity.
Located in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, the Kehrein Center for the Arts stands as an ideal venue for this significant production. Its mission to foster hope and transformation through artistic storytelling aligns beautifully with the event’s goal of amplifying marginalized voices.
Black and Latina women encounter unique challenges within the ballet community, where leadership positions remain dominated by white males. “Struggle and Resilience” seeks to break down these barriers, providing a much-needed platform for artistry and narratives often overlooked.
More than just a performance, “Struggle and Resilience” serves as a celebration of artistry and a bold step toward inclusivity in ballet. Audiences are invited to reflect, engage, and participate in this vital conversation.