Ballet Company Aims to Reach New Audiences

WDCB’s Gary Zidek talks to Julianna Rubio Slager, the co-founder and artistic director of Ballet 5:8.

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WDCB 90.9 FM · The Arts Section: Ballet 5:8 Has Big Plans

“One thing that I’ve seen, at least in my community, ballet can be super intimidating, and so I’ve always gone ‘wait a second, ballet is for everyone and it doesn’t have to feel exclusive or far off’. I have created a lot of work that is really accessible.” - Ballet 5:8 artistic director Julianna Rubio Slager talking about creating works to reach new audiences.

Ballet 5:8 artistic director Julianna Rubio Slager

It’s been quite the journey for Orland Park-based Ballet 5:8. Established in 2012, the company has grown from humble beginnings to reach great heights. Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager co-founded the company with a desire to reach communities that traditionally aren’t represented by ballet companies.

Libby Dennen and Melanie Rodrigues in Ballet 58's "Día de Los Vivos," to be presented at the National Museum of Mexican Art on Nov. 12. Photo Credit: Kristie Kahns

Ballet 5:8’s next program, Ver la Música, Oír la Danza is set to take place on November 12 at the National Museum of Mexican Art. You can find more information at ballet58.org