Ballet 5:8

Ballet 5:8 is a female and minority-led premiere ballet company creating world-class, story-driven performances that explore the human experience through artistic excellence, cultural relevance, and faith-informed storytelling.

Under the leadership of Mexican American Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, Ballet 5:8 creates original ballets inspired by life, identity, justice, faith, and contemporary culture—inviting audiences into performances that are emotionally resonant, intellectually engaging, and visually compelling.

Since its founding in 2012, Ballet 5:8 has produced more than 60 critically acclaimed ballets and has become a growing cultural force in Chicago and beyond. As a resident company of the Harris Theater and a cultural cornerstone in Chicago’s South Suburbs, Ballet 5:8 serves more than 400 students annually through professional training, mentorship, and community engagement programs designed to make ballet accessible, welcoming, and transformative for all.