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Experience Beyond the Nutcracker—Now Featuring Live Music by the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra

Did you know Pointe Magazine named Beyond the Nutcracker one of the Top 10 Nutcrackers to see in Chicago?

This December, Ballet 5:8 invites you to rediscover the magic of Christmas through a story that spans continents, cultures, and generations. Created by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, Beyond the Nutcracker reimagines the classic holiday ballet through the eyes of Emma, a WWII-era girl whose journey with Uncle Abrahms unveils the deeper meaning of the season.

Audiences will encounter captivating Christmas celebrations from around the world—featuring vibrant movement and culturally-authentic storytelling brought to life by a cast of professional artists and talented students.

This year, we’re thrilled to announce a special collaboration with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live at select performances:

December 6 & 7 – Saturday 2p and 7p, Sunday 3p | Recorded Score

December 13 & 14 – Saturday 2p and 7p, Sunday 3p | Live Orchestra

Both weekends offer a beautiful and affordable holiday experience for families in Chicago and Frankfort, IL—but the live music performances will deliver a one-of-a-kind, immersive encounter. From the opening party scene, where pianist Generand Algenio surprises guests by playing the March live onstage, to the full orchestra soaring through each movement, this is Nutcracker as you’ve never seen—or heard—it before.

Tickets on sale soon at ballet58.org
Join us for a performance that celebrates beauty, unity, and the enduring wonder of Christmas.

Bring a group and save $5 each, use code B58Group for groups of 10 or more adults.
School groups please call us at 708-329-8773 to inquire about special pricing.

Want to join the fun? Audition to be a part of our Community Cast on August 16th.

Ages 9+ are eligible for roles in Beyond the Nutcracker.

“The show is so beautifully done and well choreographed. I felt so uplifted at the end of the show and amazed at how much work the dancers put into their performances.”
-2021 Audience Member

“It’s absolutely magical - you know it’s good when even my husband loved it!”
-2023 Audience Member

Ballet dancer in purple and yellow costume performing on stage with blue backdrop.
Ballet dancers perform on stage; one dancer is lying on a bench, and the other is standing, reaching towards the dancer on the bench, wearing a tutu and ballet slippers.
Ballet dancers performing on stage with a backdrop of American flags and city buildings, with a bald eagle in flight.
Group of children performing a dance on stage, dressed in traditional costumes, with a backdrop of a European-style church and decorative flowers.
A group of actors dressed in vintage clothing on a stage during a Christmas-themed play, with a decorated Christmas tree in the background.
A ballerina performing on stage in a tutu, with arms raised and one leg extended, against a colorful painted backdrop of hills and sky.
Ballet dancers performing on stage with a backdrop of a painted cathedral and trees.
Three ballet dancers and a man with a book on stage, with a colorful abstract background and a compass-like design on the left.
Two ballet dancers perform on stage with a backdrop of a colorful painting of a cityscape and a sun with rays.