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.
Hierarchy vs. Equality | Ballet Year Million
Ballet, as an art form, has a rich history that spans centuries. However, one aspect of this history that has come under scrutiny in recent years is the celebration of hierarchy. This hierarchy was celebrated as an essential part of ballet, but 21st-century ballets need to reflect equality across a diverse landscape.
Why Bigger is Not Always Better When Selecting a Training Program
Have you ever fallen into the hype that getting into a program with major name recognition is the holy grail of dance audition success?
Archaic vs. Innovative | Ballet Year Million
Ballet is a timeless art form that has evolved over the centuries. However, in the 20th century, traditional ballet became characterized by a certain set of stories and forms that are now considered archaic and in need of innovation. These stories and forms, while once considered cutting edge, no longer resonate with today's audiences and fail to represent the diversity of our world. As such, it is essential that ballet embrace new and diverse stories and storytellers in order to remain relevant and engaging.
Male vs. Female Gaze | Ballet Year Million
Throughout history, women in ballet have often been objectified due to the dominance of the male directors and choreographers, which has influenced the way dancers are choreographed, costumed, and presented on stage. In the 21st century, it is imperative that women’s voices are heard.
The Female Leads of BareFace | Solo Artist Sarah Clarke
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 Sarah Clarke on dancing the principal role of Orual.
Why Attend a Pas de Deux Intensive?
Choosing a summer intensive for a pre-professional dancer can be a daunting task, as there are many options available and it is important to find the right fit for your individual needs and goals. Here are some additional tips to help you make an informed decision, with a focus on the health and well-being of the whole dancer.
The Female Leads of BareFace | Solo Artist Elizabeth Marlin
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 Elizabeth Marlin on dancing the role of Psyche.
Why Everyone Should Watch Butterfly
Company Artist Laura Peterman Willis shares her thoughts on the importance of Julianna Rubio Slager’s breathtaking ballet, Butterfly, in honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day.
How to Choose the Best Summer Intensive for Your Dancing Goals
Choosing a summer intensive for a pre-professional dancer can be a daunting task, as there are many options available and it is important to find the right fit for your individual needs and goals. Here are some additional tips to help you make an informed decision, with a focus on the health and well-being of the whole dancer.
The Parable of Dance
Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager shares this beautiful parable with the Ballet 5:8 community published by Ekstasis magazine.
Valerie Linsner | Season in Review
Solo Artist Valerie Linsner shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Jessica Lohr | Season in Review
Solo Artist Jessica Lohr shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Elizabeth Marlin | Season in Review
Solo Artist Elizabeth Marlin shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Ford Tackett | Season in Review
Company Apprentice Ford Tackett shares his experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Kayla Kowach | Season in Review
Company Apprentice Kayla Kowach shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Lezlie Gray | Season in Review
Company Artist Lezlie Gray shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Ellington Nichols | Season in Review
Company Artist Ellington Nichols shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Melanie Rodrigues | Season in Review
Company Artist Melanie Rodrigues shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Samuel Opsal | Season in Review
Solo Artist Samuel Opsal shares his experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Sarah Clarke | Season in Review
Company Artist Sarah Clarke shares her experiences in the 2021/22 Season.

