Ballet 5:8 Blog: Dance that Lingers
At Ballet 5:8, every movement tells a story. Our blog takes you deeper—into the rehearsal room, into the minds of our choreographers, and into the real-life experiences that shape our art. Whether you’re a dancer, an arts lover, or just curious, we invite you to explore the beauty, faith, and resilience at the heart of our work.
What You’ll Find Here:
Behind the Scenes: Go inside the making of new works like La Llorona, The House on Mango Street, and The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe.
Artist Voices: Read reflections from our dancers, choreographers, and guest faculty.
Creative Process: From inspiration to premiere—learn how ballets are built.
Community Impact: See how Ballet 5:8 connects with students, schools, and neighborhoods.
Tour Diaries & Studio Life: Follow us from Orland Park to the Harris Theater and beyond.
Enjoy exploring our work below or search the blog for topics you’re curious about.
La Llorona: A Serious Story Told with Tenderness—Open to All Ages
Ballet 5:8’s La Llorona reimagines the legendary folktale as a heartfelt story of love, loss, and hope. Directed by Julianna Rubio Slager, this family-friendly ballet uses tender storytelling and the perspective of children to invite audiences into meaningful conversations. Upcoming performances in Bloomington, Grayslake, and University Park.
Valerie Linsner on the Importance of New Work
Being part of a company that prioritizes creating new works is meaningful to me. It pushes me as an artist, connects with current culture, and allows me to craft unique art. At 5:8, we passionately produce truth-rooted, stereotype-free works that bring a fresh voice to the arts community.
Performing in a work created specifically for me is thrilling. It comes with responsibility and freedom - giving my all to the choreographer's vision while being liberated from comparison.
The stories we tell at 5:8 are for everyone. They tackle uncomfortable subjects, shed light on the unexplored, and resonate deeply. They challenge, inspire, and remind us of our collective voice. Our work at 5:8 is truly extraordinary.