Experience the School of Ballet 5:8, where passionate students from across the U.S. come together to pursue their passion, guided by talented instructors in a nurturing environment that cultivates artistry and unleashes potential.
BECOMING A PROFESSIONAL DANCER BEGINS HERE
At the School of Ballet 5:8, students receive comprehensive, high-caliber training rooted in classical ballet and informed by the demands of today’s professional dance world.
Under the leadership of School Principal Miranda Rubio Opsal and Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, we emphasize strong technique, authentic artistry, and the power of storytelling—creating a space where students of all ages thrive in body, mind, and spirit. Below you will find a full listing of our program offerings.
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Interested in registering or taking an audition class? Fill out the interest form.
Take a look at our class schedule to find your fit or create an account to register.
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Preparatory Program
Ages 2–11 | Ballet with Joy & Excellence
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Pre-Professional Program
Ages 10+ | Serious Training for Aspiring Dancers
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Conservatory & Trainee Programs
Elite Classical Ballet for Career-Minded Dancers
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Community Division
All Ages & Levels | Dance for Life, Joy, and Wellness
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Master Classes
Intermediate & Advanced | Classes with guest teachers & Ballet 5:8 faculty
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School Alumni
Ready to give back? Join us for special events and behind the scenes glimpses.
All classes are taught from Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager’s proprietary syllabus, shaped by both Vaganova and School of American Ballet methodologies. Each of our instructors is trained in her signature approach, which emphasizes scientifically sound technique, musicality, expression, and individual artistry.
Many of our graduates go on to join Ballet 5:8’s professional company, other professional ballet companies, and top BFA programs nationwide.
Rooted in Faith. Committed to Excellence.
The School of Ballet 5:8 serves over 400 students annually and is a leading center for classical ballet in the Chicago area. With campuses in Orland Park and Beverly, we offer accessible, high-quality dance education for students ages 3–18.
Trusted Curriculum: Based on Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager’s Vaganova and SAB-influenced syllabus
Expert Faculty: Trained in Ballet 5:8’s signature style—focused on strong technique, musicality, and personal expression
Proven Results: Alumni have been accepted to top programs including ABT, Houston Ballet, SAB, Joffrey, PNB, Broadway, and more
Inclusive Community: Students come from 35+ Chicago neighborhoods; advanced levels by audition
Whether you're new to ballet or ready for serious pre-professional training, the School of Ballet 5:8 offers a professional, faith-rooted environment where dancers grow in excellence and character.
What People Are Saying
"My daughter loves Ballet 5:8, and as parents so do we! We recommend them to everyone we know with children interested in dance. I love that my four year old has small classes which allow for a lot of individual attention, and that the instructors have incredible patience and skill working with the young ones. My daughter has learned discipline, ballet basics, and discovered an absolute joy and love for dance. She talks non stop about her first recital and how she cannot wait until the next one!"
— Cassie Hamilton-Reid, Preparatory Program Mother
"I love going to the adult classes! I love that we have the opportunity to perform once a year. I love that the staff that teaches us are or have been professional dancers. I love that the classes are challenging yet fun and relaxed! It brings me so much joy and feeds my soul."
— Laura Kim, Community Dance Program Student
"My daughter has been training at Ballet 5:8 since 2014 when she was six. My daughter was accepted to the prestigious School of American Ballet. This was only possible through the dedication, the instruction, technique, style and poise that is taught by all the instructors/teachers of ballet at this school. Thank you for giving my daughter all of these wonderful tools!"
— Eva Jabaay, Conservatory Alumna Mother
