Valerie Linsner | 22/23 Season in Review

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. A special thank you to the artists of the company for sharing about their experiences in the 2022/23 Season.

Photo by Kristie Kahns.

Q. Pick one word to describe the 2022/23 Season. Why?

A. For me, I would describe this season as strengthening. Though the process of strengthening isn't the most glamorous thing, I definitely felt the reality of being pushed to greater realms of ability. I believe I also grew to dance and live more tenaciously this year which has been an adventure!

Q. Can you share a favorite moment from on- or off-stage?

A. While this isn't one particular moment, I was struck more than once throughout the season with just how faithful God has been to this company over the last few years. I just finished my 6th season dancing with the company, and I've been brought to tears witnessing the freedom and joy that God has brought to people individually and therefore to our group as a whole. It's one of the most encouraging things to see things that we've prayed for our community become reality and I can't wait to see God do more.

Q. You performed many works this season! Does one stand out as the most meaningful or most notable for you personally? Why?

A. It's really hard to pick just one, but Dry Bones by Julianna Rubio Slager held a lot of meaning for me in the fall season. There was a period of time when we were dancing the ballet in which I wasn't physically at my best, and while this may sound dramatic, it was during those rehearsals and performances that I was able to more fully understand that life really is a miracle! -- how every breath we breathe is a gift, something we can't give to ourselves. We are dependent beings who can only live by receiving the breath and life we're given each day. It's a powerful reality!  

Q. What or who has inspired you this season?

A. There's a verse in the Bible that describes how Jesus lived his life that really inspired me this year and has transformed how I approach my work: "Even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve..." (Matthew 20:28).

Q. What are you looking forward to next season?

A. I'm excited for all of it -- dancing more in Chicago, creating new works like the Sea Is Flat and bringing back a ballet that's near and dear to my heart, Butterfly. I hope you'll join us!