Get to know the professional artists of Ballet 5:8 as we ask them about their hometowns, favorite dance memories, and people who helped them succeed.

*Sophia Snider with her parents after her first professional performance with Ballet 5:8 in 2020*

Where is your hometown? What is it like?

I grew up in New Lenox, IL. New Lenox looks like a typical small town, but I find it familiar and whimsical… and it’s only fifteen minutes from Ballet 5:8’s Orland Park studios. I enjoy getting lost in the library, biking trails to the downtown area, and stopping for an ice cream cone at Ranch Frostie. I love that most of my family lives in the area; we spend so much time together. One of the main blessings of living in New Lenox is that I am right outside of Chicago. Living next to a large, artsy, and interactive city is wonderful, and if I ever need time on the beach, I head up one hour to New Buffalo, MI.

Is there one person that helped you get where you are today? If so, tell us a little about them and your journey.

My parents have mentored me on my journey, encouraged me on the toughest days, and shared in my joy on the best days too. I started dancing when I was five and they have supported me since my first day of ballet class, sixteen years ago. We often joke that they had no idea that my first ballet classes would eventually lead to my profession, but their cheers, prayers, and guidance made it possible for me to pursue my dream. They were (and still are) involved in so much behind the scenes. Out of curiosity, I calculated the number of hours that my mom spent driving me to school and ballet before I turned sixteen. The figure came to over eight hours of driving a week! Most importantly, my mom and dad push me to seek the Lord above all else and trust him with everything.

Also, my former Conservatory Director (and now Associate Artistic Director) Brette Benedict brought me to where I am with ballet. Training under Mrs. Brette, watching her perform, and being inspired by her dancing and faith pushed me to be more confident, joyful, and in constant pursuit of Jesus.

What is one favorite or funny memory from your years of dance training?

In the Spring of 2019, the School of Ballet 5:8 put on The Wayward Daughter. I was training in the Conservatory at the time and I danced the role of Princess Anne. The cast for this ballet was incredible. In the green room before the first performance, we all sat together in front of the brightly lit mirrors chatting, perfecting our stage makeup, and laughing with nerves and excitement. We documented the entire show weekend, from dress rehearsal to the final performance. The togetherness and camaraderie of our group throughout the entire process were really special. We became our unique characters onstage, supported each other backstage, and gave each other tons of energy.

What is your favorite thing about summer in Chicago? Do you have a favorite place to visit/local restaurant/activity?

Summer in Chicago means many things… Deep dish Giarodanos pizza (Hawaiian style please), trips to Michigan Avenue, walks through the city parks and more. I love Chicago summers because of the hustle and bustle of the city. People are out and about, spending time outside, making fun plans with friends, and happily riding the summer heat before the infamous Chicago winter returns. The city seems to come to life in the summertime. My favorite activity is embarking on my family’s annual summer trip, but I also love to sit outside in my screen room and write during summer thunderstorms. Any activity outside is welcome, even walking through the city parks and beneath the towering skyscrapers.

Last thing—what in the upcoming 2021/22 season are you most excited for?

I could not be more excited for the upcoming season! Not only is this our tenth anniversary season, but it is also my first season with the professional company. Theaters are reopening, so we also have the opportunity to go on tour once again. Diving back into the old repertoire that I watched Ballet 5:8 perform as a student will be special and I am thrilled to revisit some of the larger works from last spring, including Julianna Rubio Slager’s Golden Sessions and Reckless. I simply love to dance, and I am excited to watch this full season of dancing and storytelling unfold as God does what only He can.