Ballet 5:8 Blog: Dance that Lingers
At Ballet 5:8, every movement tells a story. Our blog takes you deeper—into the rehearsal room, into the minds of our choreographers, and into the real-life experiences that shape our art. Whether you’re a dancer, an arts lover, or just curious, we invite you to explore the beauty, faith, and resilience at the heart of our work.
What You’ll Find Here:
Behind the Scenes: Go inside the making of new works like La Llorona, The House on Mango Street, and The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe.
Artist Voices: Read reflections from our dancers, choreographers, and guest faculty.
Creative Process: From inspiration to premiere—learn how ballets are built.
Community Impact: See how Ballet 5:8 connects with students, schools, and neighborhoods.
Tour Diaries & Studio Life: Follow us from Orland Park to the Harris Theater and beyond.
Enjoy exploring our work below or search the blog for topics you’re curious about.
Valerie Linsner | 22/23 Season in Review
Solo Artist Valerie Linsner shares her reflections on the 22/23 Season! One of our Ballet 5:8 traditions at the end of each performance season is to ask the artists of the company to share some reflections with us.
The Female Leads of BareFace | Solo Artist Valerie Linsner
In honor of Women’s History Month, we are interviewing the female leads of BareFace to get to know their characters before they take the stage this spring! Hear from Solo Artist Valerie Linsner on dancing the role of Redival.
Valerie Linsner | Season in Review
Solo Artist Valerie Linsner shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Dancer Fun Facts | Valerie Linsner
Get to know Solo Artist Valerie Linsner in our summer blog series: Dancer Fun Facts!
2020/21 Season in Review | Valerie Linsner
Hear from Company Artist Valerie Linsner as she reflects on her experience during the 20/21 Season.
Meet the Characters | Reckless
Hear from the dancers about the characters they are portraying in Julianna Rubio Slager’s newest work, Reckless. Company Artist Valerie Linsner shares about her character.
Valerie Linsner | Studio Style
Hear from the Ballet 5:8 artists about how they like to express their style in their dance attire and learn about their go-to dance bag items.
Valerie Linsner | Season in Review
The year 2020 has proved a whirlwind, but the artists of Ballet 5:8 are staying positive! Keep reading for some insights on their experiences throughout Ballet 5:8's 2019/20 Season.