The House on Mango Street
Ballet 5:8’s Second Company brings Sandra Cisneros’ classic novel The House on Mango Street to life in a poignant new ballet by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager. Told through the eyes of Esperanza, a young Latina girl coming of age in a Chicago neighborhood, the ballet explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of storytelling.
Performed by Ballet 5:8’s emerging all-female ensemble—35% of whom identify as ALAANA—the work centers underrepresented voices and invites audiences to see themselves reflected on stage. Through original choreography and powerful visual design, the ballet honors the spirit of Cisneros’ text while introducing a new generation to the transformative language of dance.
Presented in partnership with public libraries and community organizations, this tour includes performances, bilingual storytime events, and movement-based workshops that connect students and families to the themes of the book.
The House on Mango Street is more than a performance—it’s a bridge between literature, culture, and community.
The House on Mango Street
Ballet 5:8’s Second Company brings Sandra Cisneros’ classic novel The House on Mango Street to life in a poignant new ballet by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager. Told through the eyes of Esperanza, a young Latina girl coming of age in a Chicago neighborhood, the ballet explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of storytelling.
Performed by Ballet 5:8’s emerging all-female ensemble—35% of whom identify as ALAANA—the work centers underrepresented voices and invites audiences to see themselves reflected on stage. Through original choreography and powerful visual design, the ballet honors the spirit of Cisneros’ text while introducing a new generation to the transformative language of dance.
Presented in partnership with public libraries and community organizations, this tour includes performances, bilingual storytime events, and movement-based workshops that connect students and families to the themes of the book.
The House on Mango Street is more than a performance—it’s a bridge between literature, culture, and community.
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.
The Curious Life Of Edgar Allan Poe
Obsession, grief, and passion—told through his tales.
The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe is a groundbreaking new ballet by Julianna Rubio Slager and Glorielle Niedfeldt, blending neo-classical ballet and African Diaspora movement. Supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities as part of America 250, it reimagines Poe’s life through his stories as a redemptive exploration of grief, beauty, and moral awakening.
The House on Mango Street
Ballet 5:8 brings Sandra Cisneros’s classic novel to life through dance. The story follows Esperanza Cordero, a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago, as she searches for identity, belonging, and a home she can call her own. Choreographed by Julianna Rubio Slager, the ballet blends classical and contemporary movement with music to explore themes of culture, community, and hope.
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.
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.
La Llorona | University Park, IL
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.
Beauty Will Save the World
Ballet 5:8 presents Beauty Will Save the World, a mixed-repertory evening celebrating resilience, wonder, and the redemptive power of art. Featuring five distinct works that speak across cultures and generations, the program invites audiences to encounter beauty not as escapism, but as a force for transformation.
Highlights include:
A new BIOS Project excerpt, amplifying a bold new voice through Ballet 5:8’s acclaimed platform for emerging artists.
Birthday Variations by Gerald Arpino—a joyful masterwork of neoclassical ballet rarely seen on Chicago stages.
A world premiere duet by Kevin Jenkins, tracing human connection through sweeping, intimate movement.
The Sea is Flat, a fan favorite that wrestles with chaos and peace in a breathtaking storm of motion.
Día de los Vivos, a colorful and soul-stirring tribute to life, memory, and Hispanic heritage.
This performance anchors Ballet 5:8’s annual Gala, gathering our community in celebration of the artists, supporters, and stories shaping a more beautiful world.
2025 Gala | Kintsugi
Ballet 5:8 presents Beauty Will Save the World, a mixed-repertory evening celebrating resilience, wonder, and the redemptive power of art. Featuring five distinct works that speak across cultures and generations, the program invites audiences to encounter beauty not as escapism, but as a force for transformation.
Highlights include:
A new BIOS Project excerpt, amplifying a bold new voice through Ballet 5:8’s acclaimed platform for emerging artists.
Birthday Variations by Gerald Arpino—a joyful masterwork of neoclassical ballet rarely seen on Chicago stages.
A world premiere duet by Kevin Jenkins, tracing human connection through sweeping, intimate movement.
The Sea is Flat, a fan favorite that wrestles with chaos and peace in a breathtaking storm of motion.
Día de los Vivos, a colorful and soul-stirring tribute to life, memory, and Hispanic heritage.
This performance anchors Ballet 5:8’s annual Gala, gathering our community in celebration of the artists, supporters, and stories shaping a more beautiful world.
La Llorona | Grayslake, IL
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.
La Llorona | Bloomington, IL
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.
BIOS Project | Ballet 5:8 Black Box
A powerful showcase featuring new works by four female choreographers, including Silvita Diaz Brown Jenni Richards, Jasmine Getz, and Rachel Hutsell.
The BIOS Project brings to the stage the untold stories of underrepresented women from the Chicago area. Each piece is rooted in biography—real women, real voices, real legacies—told through the visceral language of dance.
Now in its latest iteration, this one-night-only event invites audiences to witness the strength, pain, and beauty woven through the lives of women who have shaped our communities but whose stories have too often gone unheard.
Experience the transformative power of movement as Ballet 5:8 continues its commitment to justice, representation, and storytelling through the arts.
BIOS Project | Ruth Page
A powerful showcase featuring new works by four female choreographers, including Silvita Diaz Brown Jenni Richards, Jasmine Getz, and Rachel Hutsell.
The BIOS Project brings to the stage the untold stories of underrepresented women from the Chicago area. Each piece is rooted in biography—real women, real voices, real legacies—told through the visceral language of dance.
Now in its latest iteration, this one-night-only event invites audiences to witness the strength, pain, and beauty woven through the lives of women who have shaped our communities but whose stories have too often gone unheard.
Experience the transformative power of movement as Ballet 5:8 continues its commitment to justice, representation, and storytelling through the arts.
BIOS Project | Logan Center
A powerful showcase featuring new works by four female choreographers, including Silvita Diaz Brown Jenni Richards, Jasmine Getz, and Rachel Hutsell.
The BIOS Project brings to the stage the untold stories of underrepresented women from the Chicago area. Each piece is rooted in biography—real women, real voices, real legacies—told through the visceral language of dance.
Now in its latest iteration, this one-night-only event invites audiences to witness the strength, pain, and beauty woven through the lives of women who have shaped our communities but whose stories have too often gone unheard.
Experience the transformative power of movement as Ballet 5:8 continues its commitment to justice, representation, and storytelling through the arts.
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.