Samuel Opsal is a Lead Artist, Technical Director, and faculty member at Ballet 5:8, where he also serves as Co-Director of the Trainee and Conservatory Programs. He joined the company in 2016 and has since become a key figure both on stage and behind the scenes.

A native of Pullman, Washington, Opsal began his formal dance training at the age of 16. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from Cornish College of the Arts in 2014, graduating magna cum laude and receiving multiple honors for academic and artistic achievement. Following his undergraduate studies, he danced with Ashani Dances under the direction of Iyun Harrison and later continued his classical training in the Graduate Program at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. His performance credits include Le Corsaire, Sleeping Beauty, and La Bayadère with PBT, as well as guest artist appearances in principal roles for Giselle, Firebird, and Swan Lake. In 2015, he also debuted a choreographic duet presented by PBT’s ensemble group.

Opsal has performed extensively in Ballet 5:8’s original repertoire, including featured and principal roles in Julianna Rubio Slager’s Reckless, Dry Bones, Golden Sessions, Butterfly, Brothers & Sisters, The Space in Between, Four Seasons of the Soul, All God’s Children, Meditations, Ripple Effect, and Scarlet. In 2024, he originated the role of Bardia in Slager’s BareFace, a performance that marked his promotion to Lead Artist.

In his faculty role at the School of Ballet 5:8, Opsal teaches Ballet Technique, Pas de Deux, Men’s Technique, Dance History, Anatomy for Dancers, and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), for which he holds certification. His pedagogical training includes studies with Lodi McClellan and Michelle Miller, as well as master classes with Bill Evans, Karen Clippinger, and Virginia Johnson. He continues to enrich his teaching through ongoing education in dance science and dancer wellness, offering his students an informed, holistic approach to training.

In addition to his artistic and educational contributions, Opsal serves as Technical Director for Ballet 5:8’s productions, ensuring the seamless execution of the company’s complex and visually compelling performances. His multifaceted role reflects a deep commitment to excellence across all areas of the organization’s mission.