Lead Artist Valerie Linsner brings a deep love for classical ballet and a refined, expressive presence to her work both on stage and in the studio. Since joining Ballet 5:8 in 2017, she has become a trusted artistic voice within the company and a valued educator within the School of Ballet 5:8 faculty.

Linsner is originally from Champaign, Illinois, where she trained in the Vaganova method under Deanna Doty at Champaign Ballet Academy. She danced principal and soloist roles with Champaign Urbana Ballet in full-length classical ballets including Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, La Bayadere, Coppélia, Paquita, Cinderella, and The Nutcracker. Her early training instilled a strong classical foundation and a deep appreciation for ballet’s expressive potential.

Linsner first encountered Ballet 5:8 through its Summer Intensive in 2013 and returned again in 2014. Deeply impacted by the experience, she joined Ballet 5:8’s Trainee Program in 2017, where she trained under Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and former Trainee Program Director Brette Benedict. During her time as a Trainee, she performed in Scarlet, Compass, Four Seasons of the Soul, and The Space in Between, touring extensively and gaining valuable performance experience.

She was promoted to Apprentice in 2019, Company Artist in 2020, Solo Artist in 2021, and Lead Artist in 2024. Linsner has danced numerous principal and soloist roles in Slager’s original works, including Reckless, Gospel Impressions, Golden Sessions, Butterfly, Meditations, Brothers & Sisters, Celestia, Lost Women of Juarez, BareFace (as Redival), and most recently La Llorona.

A member of the School of Ballet 5:8 faculty since 2018, Linsner currently serves as Co-Director of the Pre-Professional Program, where she helps lead the next generation of aspiring artists with a blend of technical rigor and nurturing mentorship. She is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique and continues to refine her teaching through ongoing professional development.

Known for her clarity, artistry, and thoughtful presence, Valerie Linsner embodies Ballet 5:8’s commitment to professional excellence and meaningful storytelling.