Ballet 5:8 Announces Historic Move to Full-Time Dancer Contracts
Milestone includes healthcare stipend, PTO, maternity/paternity leave, and a fully funded second company
Orland Park, IL — [06.05.2025] — Ballet 5:8, a professional ballet company known for innovative storytelling and a commitment to equity in the arts, is proud to announce a significant leap forward in its organizational vision: beginning this season, nearly all Ballet 5:8 company artists will be employed under full-time, three year contracts ranging from 30–40 hours per week. Each artist has a niche within the company’s teaching faculty and administration, alongside their primary roles as dancers.
This advancement provides dancers with a robust compensation and benefits package including a healthcare stipend, 401(k) matching, paid time off, gym membership, pointe shoes, on-site physical therapy and chiropractic care, and maternity and paternity leave.
“This is a big moment for Ballet 5:8,” says Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager. “We have been working toward this goal for so many years—it feels amazing to finally be here. The pandemic pushed this dream back, and some days it felt like we’d never get there. I am so grateful to the team of people who have worked tirelessly to make this a reality. I look forward to continuing to create a sustainable future for our team of artists and administrators who are the heart and soul of Ballet 5:8.”
Dancers themselves are already experiencing the impact of this shift. “I am so grateful for this shift in our company structure and for the continued advocacy of Julianna and Jeremy,” says Kayla Kowach, a Solo Artist with the company. “This is rare in professional arts, but it makes a huge difference in the sustainability and longevity of our careers. I personally am directly impacted by this transition and have already experienced the benefits and security it provides.”
This move comes on the heels of another major milestone: the creation of a fully funded Second Company. This tuition-free program supports the growth of talented early-career professionals by providing mentorship, performance opportunities, and a performance stipend. Building on this momentum, Ballet 5:8’s Board of Directors has set an ambitious goal to eliminate the apprentice program entirely by next season—reducing barriers and removing one rung from the ladder that dancers must climb on their way to a professional contract.
“For a company that is only 14 years old, this is a necessity and a major accomplishment,” says Rubio Slager. “I would love to see more people come alongside the work we are doing and support the incredible artists that bring such honesty and stunning artistry to our stages. It’s an exciting time to be leading this company, and I am energized for our future.”
The move arrives at a critical juncture in the national conversation about equity, sustainability, and labor rights in the dance field. While many dancers across the country still patch together freelance and part-time work to survive, Ballet 5:8’s model offers long-term employment, economic stability, and holistic care. It’s a clear expression of the company’s belief that artistic excellence and human dignity go hand in hand.
“This isn’t just about payroll,” says Executive Director Jeremy Slager. “It’s about redefining what it means to thrive as an artist. These are not luxuries—these are essentials for anyone giving their body and soul to this work day in and day out.”
As the organization continues to tour nationally and expand its Chicago-area presence, this new structure will support deeper collaboration, expanded creative risk, and long-term sustainability for both artists and administrators.
About Ballet 5:8
Founded in 2012, Ballet 5:8 is a female and minority-led professional ballet company based in the Chicago area. With a growing reputation for bold repertory and social storytelling, Ballet 5:8 tours nationally and presents original works that spark conversation around faith, justice, and the human experience.
For interviews or press access, contact:
Jeremy Slager
info@ballet58.org
www.ballet58.org