Ballet 5:8 is proud to present Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture (2936 North Southport Avenue) to launch the holiday season, on November 25, 2023 (2PM) and November 26, 2023 (3PM). Embark on a mesmerizing journey around the world with Ballet 5:8’s enchanting production of Beyond the Nutcracker as Emma and Uncle Abrahms discover the true meaning of Christmas. Soak in the timeless music of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker while experiencing this magical production that rediscovers the meaning of Christmas through the beauty of dance. With a remarkable twist on a classic tradition, this production has garnered widespread critical acclaim.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting choreography meticulously crafted by the culturally sensitive and visionary Artistic Director, Julianna Rubio Slager. Her profound understanding of different traditions shines through as she masterfully weaves together the vibrant movements and rhythms of cultures around the world. Ballet 5:8's new American divertissement and Argentine divertissement will leave you spellbound, celebrating the unique cultural tapestry that makes our world so extraordinary.
Join us for an unforgettable experience as Ballet 5:8 takes the stage, captivating hearts and minds with its unparalleled artistry. Tickets are available online at https://athenaeumcenter.org/events/2023/beyond-the-nutcracker/.
TICKET INFORMATION
Ballet 5:8 presents Beyond the Nutcracker at the Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture at 2936 North Southport Avenue Chicago, IL, 60657 on Saturday, November 25 at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday, November 26 at 3:00 p.m. Tiered single tickets are available ranging from $10 to $62 based on seating and available online at: https://athenaeumcenter.org/events/2023/beyond-the-nutcracker/. Specific children, student and senior ticket prices are available. For groups of 10 or more adults, patrons can use the code: B58GROUP to redeem $5 off each ticket.
AS SEEN ON WTTW, FOX 32 and WGN AROUND TOWN
Pointe Magazine:
“Top 10 Nutcrackers to See in Chicago”
Anna Hessel, People & Places Magazine (2022):
“Ballet 5:8 is truly poetry in motion - precise, pretty, and thought-provoking dance at its finest.”
“This unparalleled production was innovative, refreshing, and artistic. I highly recommend this entertaining and edifying dance company to all.”
AUDIENCE FEEDBACK
“Growing up attending on and off Broadway shows, watching a Ballet 5:8 production is reminiscent of those… and so much more so because of the deeper “hope offering” meaning.”
ABOUT ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JULIANNA RUBIO SLAGER
Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director, Co-Founder and Chicano Resident Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager studied under notable teachers from the New York City Ballet, the Vaganova Academy and Puerto Rican National Ballet. Rubio Slager enjoyed dancing under Barbara Smith at Greater Lansing Ballet and also under Kathy Thibodeaux and Sol Maisonet at Ballet Magnificat. Rubio Slager co-founded Ballet 5:8 in 2012 and is known for the unique ability to engage audiences in discussions of life and faith through exquisite choreography. As one of the few Mexican American Artistic Directors and Resident Choreographers, Rubio Slager is a groundbreaking representation empowering minority women to command space in the professional ballet scene. Over the past decade, Rubio Slager has dedicated herself to training and mentoring young artists at School of Ballet 5:8’s Pre-Professional, Conservatory and Trainee programs. Students from School of Ballet 5:8 have been awarded contracts, scholarships and placements with world-class dance companies, colleges and schools across the country testifying to the unmatched quality of dance education Rubio Slager provides.
ABOUT BALLET 5:8
Ballet 5:8 is a female and minority-led premiere ballet company recognized for remarkable artistic excellence, innovation, technical precision and beauty. Mexican American Artistic Director, Julianna Rubio Slager, creates original and dynamic ballet experiences drawing from life, faith, current events and diverse perspectives that tell relevant stories of the 21st century. Rubio Slager brings to life ballets that are relatable and accessible to all people, delighting both the seasoned balletomane and the first time audience. Since its founding in 2012, Ballet 5:8 has presented more than 45 critically acclaimed ballets forging a robust repertoire, engaging and captivating communities in Chicago, the Midwest and across the nation. Headquartered in Orland Park, IL, Ballet 5:8 is the only professional touring company in Chicago’s South Suburbs and serves more than 400 students a year at the School of Ballet 5:8 as a cultural staple in the community. The School also has a Beverly Campus on Chicago’s South Side raising up the next generation of aspiring artists. For more information about Ballet 5:8, visit Ballet58.org and connect on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube