The Shape of Joy - Presented by the School of Ballet 5:8 | Saturday 2p
School of Ballet 5:8 Mixed Repertoire Bill
One performance. Many worlds.
This year, our School of Ballet 5:8 performance is a mixed repertoire bill—which is a fancy way of saying you’ll see multiple short ballets in one show, each with its own music, style, and story. Instead of spending the entire performance in a single production, you’ll watch our students demonstrate range: classic storytelling, character work, musicality, ensemble precision, and contemporary expression—all in one afternoon.
Even better: every ballet will be performed at every show, but with different casts, so each performance has its own spark. (Translation: if you come back twice, you’ll see something new—same ballets, fresh interpretations.)
Repertoire
Peter Rabbit
Performed by the Preparatory Program
A charming, storybook favorite brought to life with youthful energy, imagination, and plenty of personality.
Little Women
Performed by Ensemble I & Jr. Ensemble
A beloved tale told through dance—rich in character, emotion, and the kind of ensemble storytelling that makes ballet feel like theater.
Caged Bird Sings & Shades of Refrain
Performed by Ensemble II
Two distinct works that highlight artistry and musical phrasing—one powerful and expressive, the other layered and nuanced.
Interplay & Gospel Impressions
Performed by the Studio Company
Dynamic, high-level repertoire showcasing versatility, attack, and polish—students stepping fully into their artistry as performers.
Come celebrate what our dancers have been building all year: technique, confidence, and the ability to shift styles with intention. It’s a performance that moves quickly, offers something for everyone, and puts our students’ growth front and center.
If a full-length ballet is a novel, this is a book of short stories—with a really impressive cast.
The Shape of Joy - Presented by the School of Ballet 5:8 | Saturday 7p
School of Ballet 5:8 Mixed Repertoire Bill
One performance. Many worlds.
This year, our School of Ballet 5:8 performance is a mixed repertoire bill—which is a fancy way of saying you’ll see multiple short ballets in one show, each with its own music, style, and story. Instead of spending the entire performance in a single production, you’ll watch our students demonstrate range: classic storytelling, character work, musicality, ensemble precision, and contemporary expression—all in one afternoon.
Even better: every ballet will be performed at every show, but with different casts, so each performance has its own spark. (Translation: if you come back twice, you’ll see something new—same ballets, fresh interpretations.)
Repertoire
Peter Rabbit
Performed by the Preparatory Program
A charming, storybook favorite brought to life with youthful energy, imagination, and plenty of personality.
Little Women
Performed by Ensemble I & Jr. Ensemble
A beloved tale told through dance—rich in character, emotion, and the kind of ensemble storytelling that makes ballet feel like theater.
Caged Bird Sings & Shades of Refrain
Performed by Ensemble II
Two distinct works that highlight artistry and musical phrasing—one powerful and expressive, the other layered and nuanced.
Interplay & Gospel Impressions
Performed by the Studio Company
Dynamic, high-level repertoire showcasing versatility, attack, and polish—students stepping fully into their artistry as performers.
Come celebrate what our dancers have been building all year: technique, confidence, and the ability to shift styles with intention. It’s a performance that moves quickly, offers something for everyone, and puts our students’ growth front and center.
If a full-length ballet is a novel, this is a book of short stories—with a really impressive cast.
The Shape of Joy - Presented by the School of Ballet 5:8 | Sunday 3p
School of Ballet 5:8 Mixed Repertoire Bill
One performance. Many worlds.
This year, our School of Ballet 5:8 performance is a mixed repertoire bill—which is a fancy way of saying you’ll see multiple short ballets in one show, each with its own music, style, and story. Instead of spending the entire performance in a single production, you’ll watch our students demonstrate range: classic storytelling, character work, musicality, ensemble precision, and contemporary expression—all in one afternoon.
Even better: every ballet will be performed at every show, but with different casts, so each performance has its own spark. (Translation: if you come back twice, you’ll see something new—same ballets, fresh interpretations.)
Repertoire
Peter Rabbit
Performed by the Preparatory Program
A charming, storybook favorite brought to life with youthful energy, imagination, and plenty of personality.
Little Women
Performed by Ensemble I & Jr. Ensemble
A beloved tale told through dance—rich in character, emotion, and the kind of ensemble storytelling that makes ballet feel like theater.
Caged Bird Sings & Shades of Refrain
Performed by Ensemble II
Two distinct works that highlight artistry and musical phrasing—one powerful and expressive, the other layered and nuanced.
Interplay & Gospel Impressions
Performed by the Studio Company
Dynamic, high-level repertoire showcasing versatility, attack, and polish—students stepping fully into their artistry as performers.
Come celebrate what our dancers have been building all year: technique, confidence, and the ability to shift styles with intention. It’s a performance that moves quickly, offers something for everyone, and puts our students’ growth front and center.
If a full-length ballet is a novel, this is a book of short stories—with a really impressive cast.
Emerging Artist Showcase
2026 Emerging Artist Showcase | March 21 at 2:00 PM
Nathan Manilow Theater,
Park Forest
See what happens when dancers become the entire production team.
Our Studio Company artists (ages 14–22) have built this performance from the ground up—creating, choreographing, producing, directing, designing, marketing, and managing every detail themselves. The result is an original, student-driven showcase that’s as much about leadership and collaboration as it is about artistry.
Come experience their work in action and support these young artists as they develop vital skills both onstage and offstage.
Ballerina Ball 2026
A Valentine’s Dance Children and Caregivers
This Valentine’s season, step into a world of music, movement, and magic.
The Ballet 5:8 Ballerina Ball is a joyful evening created for children and the grown-ups who love them—open to our entire neighborhood and community. No ballet experience required. Just come ready to dance, laugh, and make memories together.
✨ Ages 3 and up are welcome
✨ Fathers & daughters, mothers & sons, grandparents, caregivers, and all special pairings are invited
Every child dreams of dressing up, dancing freely, and feeling special.
But families don’t always have a place where they can slow down, connect, and share something truly magical together - that doesn’t break the bank.
Ballet 5:8 invites you to a Valentine’s evening where children are the stars, grown-ups are their partners, and the whole room becomes a dance floor.
💫 What to Expect
Your evening at the Ballerina Ball includes:
🩰 Learn to Waltz & Bachatta
A simple, joyful waltz lesson designed for all ages—no experience needed.
🎶 Open Dance Floor
Move, spin, and dance together in a welcoming, playful atmosphere.
🎭 Mini Ballet Performance
A short, enchanting performance to inspire little dancers and curious hearts.
🌷 A Flower for Every Child
Because every child deserves to feel special.
📸 Photo Booth Fun
Capture the moment!
• Printed photos available to take home for a small fee
• Or receive your photo by email for free
🖼 Create a Take-Home Photo Frame
Decorate a keepsake frame to display your favorite memory from the night.
💖 Why Families Love the Ballerina Ball
✔ Open to the entire community
✔ Perfect for first-time ballet families
✔ Screen-free, age-appropriate fun
✔ Affordable Valentine’s memory-making
🎟 Tickets
💗 Adults: $25
💗 Children: $5
Children must attend with a ticketed adult.
🌟 The Happily Ever After
You’ll leave with smiling faces, tired dancing feet, a flower in hand, and a photo that captures a Valentine’s memory you’ll treasure for years. Core memory created!
✨ Join Ballet 5:8 for the Ballerina Ball—where the whole community dances together. ✨
3PM December 14th | Beyond the Nutcracker
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist comes to Chicago this season. Join young Emma and the mysterious Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time—encountering soldiers, shepherds, and cultural celebrations from around the world—and discover what Christmas is truly about.
This year, we’re thrilled to announce a special collaboration with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live at select performances:
December 6 & 7
Saturday 2p and 7p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
December 13 & 14
Saturday 2p and 7p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
This year marks a historic milestone: for the first time ever, Ballet 5:8’s professional company and school will share the stage, uniting students and seasoned artists in a powerful display of community and collaboration. Audiences can also experience the wonder of live music at select performances, bringing Julianna Rubio Slager’s vibrant choreography to life in a whole new way.
Whether you’re continuing a beloved tradition or discovering it anew, Beyond the Nutcracker offers a joyful, hope-filled celebration for all ages.
7PM December 13th | Beyond the Nutcracker
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist comes to Chicago this season. Join young Emma and the mysterious Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time—encountering soldiers, shepherds, and cultural celebrations from around the world—and discover what Christmas is truly about.
This year, we’re thrilled to announce a special collaboration with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live at select performances:
December 6 & 7
Saturday 2p and 7p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
December 13 & 14
Saturday 2p and 7p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
This year marks a historic milestone: for the first time ever, Ballet 5:8’s professional company and school will share the stage, uniting students and seasoned artists in a powerful display of community and collaboration. Audiences can also experience the wonder of live music at select performances, bringing Julianna Rubio Slager’s vibrant choreography to life in a whole new way.
Whether you’re continuing a beloved tradition or discovering it anew, Beyond the Nutcracker offers a joyful, hope-filled celebration for all ages.
2PM December 13th | Beyond the Nutcracker
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist comes to Chicago this season. Join young Emma and the mysterious Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time—encountering soldiers, shepherds, and cultural celebrations from around the world—and discover what Christmas is truly about.
This year, we’re thrilled to announce a special collaboration with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live at select performances:
December 6 & 7
Saturday 2p and 7p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
December 13 & 14
Saturday 2p and 7p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
This year marks a historic milestone: for the first time ever, Ballet 5:8’s professional company and school will share the stage, uniting students and seasoned artists in a powerful display of community and collaboration. Audiences can also experience the wonder of live music at select performances, bringing Julianna Rubio Slager’s vibrant choreography to life in a whole new way.
Whether you’re continuing a beloved tradition or discovering it anew, Beyond the Nutcracker offers a joyful, hope-filled celebration for all ages.
3PM December 7th | Beyond the Nutcracker
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist comes to Chicago this season. Join young Emma and the mysterious Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time—encountering soldiers, shepherds, and cultural celebrations from around the world—and discover what Christmas is truly about.
This year, we’re thrilled to announce a special collaboration with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live at select performances:
December 6 & 7
Saturday 2p and 7p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
December 13 & 14
Saturday 2p and 7p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
This year marks a historic milestone: for the first time ever, Ballet 5:8’s professional company and school will share the stage, uniting students and seasoned artists in a powerful display of community and collaboration. Audiences can also experience the wonder of live music at select performances, bringing Julianna Rubio Slager’s vibrant choreography to life in a whole new way.
Whether you’re continuing a beloved tradition or discovering it anew, Beyond the Nutcracker offers a joyful, hope-filled celebration for all ages.
7PM December 6th | Beyond the Nutcracker
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist comes to Chicago this season. Join young Emma and the mysterious Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time—encountering soldiers, shepherds, and cultural celebrations from around the world—and discover what Christmas is truly about.
This year, we’re thrilled to announce a special collaboration with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live at select performances:
December 6 & 7
Saturday 2p and 7p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
December 13 & 14
Saturday 2p and 7p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
This year marks a historic milestone: for the first time ever, Ballet 5:8’s professional company and school will share the stage, uniting students and seasoned artists in a powerful display of community and collaboration. Audiences can also experience the wonder of live music at select performances, bringing Julianna Rubio Slager’s vibrant choreography to life in a whole new way.
Whether you’re continuing a beloved tradition or discovering it anew, Beyond the Nutcracker offers a joyful, hope-filled celebration for all ages.
2PM December 6th | Beyond the Nutcracker
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist comes to Chicago this season. Join young Emma and the mysterious Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time—encountering soldiers, shepherds, and cultural celebrations from around the world—and discover what Christmas is truly about.
This year, we’re thrilled to announce a special collaboration with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live at select performances:
December 6 & 7
Saturday 2p and 7p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Recorded Score at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
December 13 & 14
Saturday 2p and 7p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
Sunday 3p | Live Orchestra at Lincoln Way North Performing Arts Center
This year marks a historic milestone: for the first time ever, Ballet 5:8’s professional company and school will share the stage, uniting students and seasoned artists in a powerful display of community and collaboration. Audiences can also experience the wonder of live music at select performances, bringing Julianna Rubio Slager’s vibrant choreography to life in a whole new way.
Whether you’re continuing a beloved tradition or discovering it anew, Beyond the Nutcracker offers a joyful, hope-filled celebration for all ages.
The Future is Now
Step into the future of dance.
Join us for The Future is Now, a powerful evening showcasing the next generation of artists alongside the professionals of Ballet 5:8. Featuring dancers from Ballet 5:8’s nationally recognized Summer Intensive, the performance is the culmination of weeks of rigorous training and mentorship.
These emerging artists bring fresh energy, bold artistry, and passionate storytelling to the stage—offering a glimpse into the future of the art form and the voices that will carry it forward.
Summer Intensive Showcase #2
Come and see our students' hard work as they showcase the many things they have been learning at Ballet 5:8's Summer Intensive 2025! A recording of each showcase will be made available one week after the performance. Links for the recordings must be purchased separately.
Summer Intensive Showcase #1
Come and see our students' hard work as they showcase the many things they have been learning at Ballet 5:8's Summer Intensive 2025! A recording of each showcase will be made available one week after the performance. Links for the recordings must be purchased separately.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
The Future is NOW
For the first time, Ballet 5:8 Professional Company will perform at Lincoln-Way East Performing Arts Center alongside the talented artists attending Ballet 5:8’s Summer Intensive, featuring:
Look to the East
Transcendence
Mi Familia
Solace
Dia de los Vivos
World Premieres by Emerging Choreographers
Showtime | 7:00 PM
Tickets | $20-$30
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
6:00 PM | Box Office Opens
6:30 PM | House Opens
7:00 PM | Curtain
Late Seating not permitted
Family Saturdays | Livestream
Join us for Family Saturdays for an exciting one-hour interactive presentations featuring Ballet 5:8 repertoire performed by Second & Studio Company Artists. Our studio theatre makes for a casual and family friendly environment to introduce your little dancer to the magic of live performance. You can expect to be inspired by breathtaking dance, meet ballerinas, have the chance to take a short class with one of our incredible staff.
General Admission | $10
SCHEDULE
Livestream starts | 3:55 PM
Performance | 4:00 PM
Or join us for our 1:00 or 2:00 PM Performances
Family Saturdays | 2:00 PM Performance
Join us for Family Saturdays for an exciting one-hour interactive presentations featuring Ballet 5:8 repertoire performed by Second & Studio Company Artists. Our studio theatre makes for a casual and family friendly environment to introduce your little dancer to the magic of live performance. You can expect to be inspired by breathtaking dance, meet ballerinas, have the chance to take a short class with one of our incredible staff.
General Admission | $10
SCHEDULE
House Opens | 1:30 PM
Performance | 2:00 PM
Optional Ballet Class | 2:30 PM
Or join us for our 1:00 PM Performance or 4:00 PM Livestream
Family Saturdays | 1:00 PM Performance
Join us for Family Saturdays for an exciting one-hour interactive presentations featuring Ballet 5:8 repertoire performed by Second & Studio Company Artists. Our studio theatre makes for a casual and family friendly environment to introduce your little dancer to the magic of live performance. You can expect to be inspired by breathtaking dance, meet ballerinas, have the chance to take a short class with one of our incredible staff.
General Admission | $10
SCHEDULE
House Opens | 12:30 PM
Performance | 1:00 PM
Optional Ballet Class | 1:30 PM
Or join us for our 2:00 PM Performance or 4:00 PM Livestream
Beyond the Nutcracker | Frankfort | December 18 | 3PM
The South Suburbs’ Favorite Nutcracker
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 | Frankfort | December 17 | 7PM
The South Suburbs’ Favorite Nutcracker
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.