School of Ballet 5:8

Dancers master advanced Vaganova syllabus levels, integrating ballet technique, pointe, pas de deux, contemporary styles, character dance, and more. Cross-training with strength, Pilates, and Progressing Ballet Technique sustains the physical demands of modern dance careers. The program fosters individual attention in an encouraging environment that cultivates discipline, artistry, and resilience.

Guest Faculty: 2025-26 Guest Faculty Michael Caye of Atlanta Ballet will be working with the men’s program. Our incredible Ballet 5:8 Faculty is often joined by guest artists and master teachers! We believe in creative exchange as a tool for growth.

Mentorship by Male Professionals: Men are mentored by School alumni and now Company Artists Christian English and John Szwast. They offer personalized feedback and real-world insight from current Ballet 5:8 professionals, including regular opportunities to work with male guest artists.

Choreography Retention: Accelerate learning and memory skills through male-focused repertoire coaching. Men are mentored by School alumni and now Company Artists Christian English and John Szwast. They offer personalized feedback and real-world insight from current Ballet 5:8 professionals, including regular opportunities to work with male guest artists.

Partnering Technique: Master safe, seamless partnering through repetition and refinement. Men are mentored by School alumni and now Company Artists Christian English and John Szwast. They offer personalized feedback and real-world insight from current Ballet 5:8 professionals, including regular opportunities to work with male guest artists.

Weight Training & Injury Prevention: Develop the strength and conditioning essential for partnering and longevity. Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention.

Men’s Allegro & Variations: Build explosive power, stamina, and control. Men are mentored by School alumni and now Company Artists Christian English and John Szwast. They offer personalized feedback and real-world insight from current Ballet 5:8 professionals, including regular opportunities to work with male guest artists.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention. Cross-training with strength, Pilates, and Progressing Ballet Technique sustains the physical demands of modern dance careers.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention. Cross-training with strength, Pilates, and Progressing Ballet Technique sustains the physical demands of modern dance careers.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention. Develop the strength and conditioning essential for partnering and longevity.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention. Cross-training with strength, Pilates, and Progressing Ballet Technique sustains the physical demands of modern dance careers.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention. Dancers master advanced Vaganova syllabus levels, integrating ballet technique, pointe, pas de deux, contemporary styles, character dance, and more.

Class Variety includes repertoire, pas de deux, modern, improvisation, acting, strength training, Pilates, Progressing Ballet Technique, and academic seminars covering dance history, music theory, anatomy, audition advice, mental health, and injury prevention.

Dedicated instruction: classes designed specifically for boys; emphasis on power, jumps, turns, coordination, and musicality. Athletic crossover: training that improves agility, balance, and core strength—beneficial for sports and stage. Clear progression: placement-based levels with coaching toward partnering and pre-professional opportunities. Confidence & character: disciplined environment that fosters leadership, focus, and teamwork. Performance experience: stage time through showcases and program productions.

We welcome new students each season with open arms and structured placement to ensure the best fit. Let your dancer’s ballet journey begin with joy, excellence, and purpose.

Train with Purpose. Dance with Excellence. For serious young dancers ready to take the next step. The Pre-Professional Program at the School of Ballet 5:8 is designed for dedicated students who are committed to classical ballet training. These levels focus on technical mastery, artistic development, and personal growth—laying the foundation for future professional or collegiate study.

High-level daily training for serious students focusing on classical technique, artistry, and stagecraft with mentorship from Ballet 5:8 artists. Tuition-based. Includes mentorship, access to teachers & guest faculty, audition counseling, career guidance, and mental wellness support—alongside daily classes and performance opportunities.

Daily technique, pointe/men’s, conditioning, repertoire, and performance opportunities designed to accelerate transition to the professional level. Tuition-based. Includes mentorship, access to teachers & guest faculty, audition counseling, career guidance, and mental wellness support—plus daily classes and performance opportunities.

Adult classes for joy & wellness. These classes are perfect for adults looking to dance for enjoyment, fitness, and overall well-being in a supportive atmosphere.

Dedicated training designed for boys. This program focuses on the unique strengths and development of male dancers, providing specialized instruction and technique.

South Side location, same curriculum. Offering the same high-quality dance education as the main campus, conveniently located on the South Side of Chicago.

Elite pathway for career-minded dancers. This is an exclusive program for dancers with professional aspirations, providing advanced training and guidance for a dance career.

Serious training & stage opportunities. This program offers rigorous training for dancers who are committed to pursuing dance at a higher level with ample performance experience.

Foundations, musicality, confidence. This program is designed for young dancers to build a strong base in dance and develop their overall sense of rhythm and stage presence.

Train with Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Ballet 5:8 Faculty in a variety of focused classes. Strength Training.

Dancers accepted to the exclusive, application-only Choreography Intensive participate in ballet, modern, composition, and improv classes with Ballet 5:8’s Summer Intensive throughout the week.

Dancers accepted to the exclusive, application-only Choreography Intensive participate in ballet, modern, composition, and improv classes with Ballet 5:8’s Summer Intensive throughout the week.

Dancers accepted to the exclusive, application-only Choreography Intensive participate in ballet, modern, composition, and improv classes with Ballet 5:8’s Summer Intensive throughout the week.

Dancers accepted to the exclusive, application-only Choreography Intensive participate in ballet, modern, composition, and improv classes with Ballet 5:8’s Summer Intensive throughout the week.

Receive instruction on performance preparation and stagecraft to build confidence for class, rehearsal, and the stage, culminating in a showcase.

Participate in injury-prevention and strength sessions specifically tailored for partners to ensure dancers' well-being and readiness for intensive training.

Work on complicated techniques and lifts, including promenades, supported pirouettes, and pressage, to fine-tune partnering knowledge and gain confidence.

Learn an original contemporary pas de deux choreographed exclusively for this program, focusing on safe partnering mechanics and artistic expression.

Study iconic classical pas de deux, including variations and coda, with expert coaching emphasizing musicality, connection, and safe partnering mechanics.

Receive strength-training classes for both men and women, designed to enhance physical capabilities required for advanced dance techniques and partnering.

New choreography and repertory each session. Technique, pointe/men’s, repertoire, contemporary forms (modern, jazz, African, flamenco, improv, musical theatre), conditioning, stagecraft, and new choreography.

For advanced dancers; requires daily pointe work and pas de deux for advanced dancers; pressage introduced where appropriate.

For advanced dancers; requires daily pointe work and pas de deux for advanced dancers; pressage introduced where appropriate.

For advanced dancers; requires daily pointe work and pas de deux for advanced dancers; pressage introduced where appropriate.

Our syllabus is grounded in the Vaganova method’s clear progressions, with purposeful additions from the School of American Ballet and the pedagogy of Marcia Dale Weary . The result: articulate footwork, expansive épaulement, musical clarity, and performance-ready stamina.

Dedicated men’s classes; partnering for upper levels (including pressage work).

Artistry, musicality, wellness, mental coaching, stagecraft, and acting.

Pilates and Progressing Ballet Technique to build strength, control, and placement.

Modern, jazz, African, flamenco, improv, musical theatre. Technique, pointe/men’s, repertoire, contemporary forms (modern, jazz, African, flamenco, improv, musical theatre), conditioning, stagecraft, and new choreography.

Classical repertoire, Ballet 5:8 repertoire, and new choreography created for SI dancers. Technique, pointe/men’s, repertoire, contemporary forms (modern, jazz, African, flamenco, improv, musical theatre), conditioning, stagecraft, and new choreography.

Rigorous ballet training: 1–2 ballet classes daily with pointe/men’s and variations. Technique, pointe/men’s, repertoire, contemporary forms (modern, jazz, African, flamenco, improv, musical theatre), conditioning, stagecraft, and new choreography.

Rigorous ballet training: 1–2 ballet classes daily with pointe/men’s and variations. Technique, pointe/men’s, repertoire, contemporary forms (modern, jazz, African, flamenco, improv, musical theatre), conditioning, stagecraft, and new choreography.

Focused training for passionate adult dancers.

Technique & Placement intensive program for dancers.

Classical & Contemporary Partnering for ages 16+. Classical and contemporary partnering. Upper levels include pressage.

Accelerated classical training for young dedicated dancers ages 8–11. Foundational training for young dedicated dancers.

Serious, joyful training for dancers ages 11–18. Daily ballet, pointe/men’s, repertoire, contemporary forms, new choreography, and staged performance opportunities.

2–5 week tracks available for dancers aged 11 and up, with housing options.

Intermediate & Advanced intensives offering specialized training and skill development.

Adult classes focused on joy, wellness, and the opportunity to perform.

Dedicated training designed specifically for boys interested in dance.

South Side location offering the same high-quality curriculum for young dancers.

Elite pathway for career-minded dancers seeking intensive, professional-level training.

Serious training & stage opportunities for dedicated dancers aiming for advanced levels.

Foundations, musicality, confidence. Explore Preparatory program designed for young dancers.

Train with Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Ballet 5:8 Faculty in a variety of focused classes. Seminars: Nutrition, Safe Stretching, Injury Prevention, and more.

Train with Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Ballet 5:8 Faculty in a variety of focused classes. Contemporary.

Train with Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Ballet 5:8 Faculty in a variety of focused classes. Repertoire & Partnering.

Train with Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Ballet 5:8 Faculty in a variety of focused classes. Ballet Technique.

Train with Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Ballet 5:8 Faculty in a variety of focused classes. Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT).

Train with Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager and Ballet 5:8 Faculty in a variety of focused classes. Pointe / Pre-Pointe.

A full-day preparatory camp themed around the Disney movie 'Moana', designed for ages 6-9 years, incorporating storytelling, music, and movement inspired by the film.

Teaching Evaluation Session 1: Foundational Ballet Technique — Studio 2 Rotate teaching segments; receive real-time faculty feedback on technique emphasis, pacing, and clarity.

Observation: Pas de Deux Class (Advanced Students) — Studio 1 Focus: technique, partnership dynamics, and artistic expression.

Observation: Ballet Technique (Advanced) — Studio 2 Focus: classroom management, quality of corrections, student engagement.

Intermediate drop-in technique class for dancers at Level 2B and 3A. This class focuses on developing intermediate dance skills and improving overall technique.

Advanced drop-in technique class for dancers at Level 3B and above. This class focuses on refining advanced movement skills and challenging experienced dancers.

Preparatory classes designed for young children, specifically targeting 4-year-olds. These classes focus on foundational dance movements and coordination appropriate for this age group.

Ballet classes suitable for levels 1B and 2A, offering progression in classical ballet technique. These classes build upon fundamental ballet positions and introduce more complex steps.

Early childhood dance classes designed for 3-year-olds, focusing on developing rhythm, coordination, and a love for movement through age-appropriate activities.

Intermediate class focusing on either plyometrics or Pilates, designed to improve strength, conditioning, and overall athletic performance for intermediate dancers.

Advanced class focusing on either plyometrics or Pilates, designed to enhance strength, conditioning, and overall athletic performance for advanced dancers.

Dance classes tailored for 5-year-olds, continuing their development in foundational dance skills. These classes aim to foster creativity and introduce more structured movement sequences.

Ballet class for adult students at an intermediate level, focusing on refining technique, developing strength, and exploring classical ballet repertoire.

Join our community of life-long learners in this fun and challenging advanced adult ballet class. This class is designed for adults with at least 3 years of previous experience. Wear workout attire, dance attire, or a combination of both. Pay per class or choose one of our subscription options to participate.

Have you always wanted to try ballet? Enjoy learning in a group rather than sweating alone in the gym? This ballet class is designed for adults wanting to learn the basics of ballet. Wear workout attire, dance attire or a combination of both. Pay per class or choose one of our subscription options to participate.

Ballet class for adult students who are beginners, introducing the fundamental positions, movements, and terminology of classical ballet.

Daily men’s classes are offered Monday through Friday in Ballet 5:8’s spacious 12,000 sq. ft. studios in Orland Park, IL. Our male dancers train alongside their peers with specialized classes and coaching designed to build strength, technique, and leadership both onstage and in the studio.

Daily Pointe classes are offered Monday through Friday in Ballet 5:8’s spacious 12,000 sq. ft. studios in Orland Park, IL. Dancers master advanced Vaganova syllabus levels, integrating ballet technique, pointe, pas de deux, contemporary styles, character dance, and more.

Daily Ballet technique classes are offered Monday through Friday in Ballet 5:8’s spacious 12,000 sq. ft. studios in Orland Park, IL. Classes with the professional company occur for Trainees. Rooted in the rigorous Vaganova syllabus and enriched by the School of American Ballet aesthetic and Marcia Dale Weary’s legacy, our curriculum provides comprehensive ballet technique.

Step into the pre-professional track with two weekly classes. Dancers explore advanced beginner material while developing strength and musicality.

Teaching Evaluation Session 2: Intermediate/Advanced Ballet Technique — Studio 2

A two-day intensive summer program for adults, focusing on weekend sessions, designed to provide concentrated dance training.

Observation: Pointe Class (Pre-Professional Students) — Studio 2

Adult Ballet Class — Studio 1

Final Teaching Evaluation: Advanced Technique Class — Various Studios

¡Emprende un emocionante viaje de danza diseñado para tu niño de cuatro años con Preparatory 2! Perfecta para quienes cumplen cuatro años antes del 1 de septiembre, nuestra clase fomenta su creatividad, coordinación y confianza a través de actividades de ballet, ritmo y movimiento creativo apropiadas para su edad.

Dance classes tailored for 5-year-olds, continuing their development in foundational dance skills. These classes aim to foster creativity and introduce more structured movement sequences.

Interactive dance class for toddlers and their accompanying adult, focusing on shared movement experiences, music exploration, and early socialization through dance.

Dance classes suitable for levels 1B and 2A, likely focusing on ballet technique. These classes build upon foundational movements and introduce more complex steps for intermediate dancers.

Beginning ballet classes for children aged 6-8 years, introducing the fundamentals of classical ballet technique in a supportive and engaging environment.

¡Este es el lugar donde comienzan los sueños! Los aspirantes a bailarines de ballet que están listos para una clase formal comienzan a aprender el prestigioso plan de estudios Vaganova. Esta clase combina una dosis saludable de diversión con el riguroso desafío del ballet clásico. Los bailarines califican a partir de los 6 años (en septiembre); no se requieren requisitos previos.

Intermediate class focusing on pointe work and variations, designed for dancers developing their pointe technique and learning classical ballet variations.

Advanced class focusing on pointe work and variations, designed for experienced dancers to develop precision, strength, and artistry in classical ballet repertoire.

Ballet class for adult students at an advanced level, focusing on demanding technique, challenging repertoire, and expressive artistry.

Step into the elegance and grace of ballet in our Adult Intermediate Ballet class, tailored for those with previous ballet experience looking to refine their skills. Whether you're returning to ballet after a break or seeking to challenge yourself further, this class offers the perfect balance of technique and artistry. Wear workout attire, dance attire, or a combination of both, and choose between pay-per-class or subscription options to join our vibrant community of adult dancers.

This high-energy class is designed to help young athletes build strength, speed, coordination, and confidence in a safe and supportive environment. Through age-appropriate exercises, bodyweight training, and functional movement drills, students will develop the foundational skills they need for sports, dance, and lifelong fitness. Coaches emphasize proper technique, injury prevention, and goal-setting while keeping workouts fun and engaging. Perfect for both beginners and experienced athletes looking to improve performance and overall health.

¡Introduce a tu niño de tres años al mundo encantador de la danza con Preparatory 1! Diseñada para quienes cumplen tres años antes del 1 de septiembre, nuestra clase fomenta su creatividad en desarrollo, sus habilidades motoras y su confianza a través del ballet y el movimiento creativo.

¡Entra al mundo encantador de Preparatory 3, donde los bailarines de cinco años comienzan su viaje formal de ballet con el prestigioso plan de estudios Vaganova! Combinando diversión con los fundamentos del ballet clásico, esta clase enciende la creatividad y la coordinación, dando la bienvenida a todos sin necesidad de requisitos previos.

At the apex of our Pre-Professional Program, 4B dancers are polished, versatile, and stage-ready. This level is ideal preparation for Conservatory training and includes the completion of advanced pointe or men’s work alongside pas de deux work.

Train four days weekly in ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, men’s allegro, pas de deux, repertoire, PBT, and classical variations.

Complete the advanced beginner syllabus and begin intermediate work. Build confidence in classical vocabulary and clean execution.

Dancers advance en pointe and attend three days of classes including ballet, PBT, pointe, jazz, modern, and variations.

Dancers begin pointe work and attend three days of classes including ballet, pre-pointe, pointe (must pass exam), jazz, modern, and variations.

Maximum Improvement & Growth intensive program for dancers.

Coordination & Artistry intensive program for dancers.

Dance and bond together in this upbeat class designed for early childhood development. Toddler and Me enrollment is for 9 week sessions.

An intensive summer program for adults, offering comprehensive dance training with multiple class sessions throughout the week, including evenings and weekend mornings.

Intermediate & Advanced intensives. These specialized workshops offer intensive training for intermediate and advanced dancers, led by expert instructors to refine skills.

Exclusive training for emerging choreographers aged 15-25 to study choreographic theory and mechanics with professional choreographers, explore Ballet 5:8’s commitment to innovative storytelling and breathtaking dance, and gain hands-on experience by setting work.

Create and perform new work with guidance from leading choreographers.

A two-day intensive summer program for adults, covering Thursday evening and Friday morning sessions, designed to provide focused dance training.

Rigorous Vaganova-based training with SAB/Marcia Dale Weary refinements, Ballet 5:8 repertoire, new choreography, and performance opportunities.

2–5 week tracks, housing available 11+. Immerse yourself in dance during the summer with intensive programs lasting two to five weeks, with accommodation options for students 11 and older.

The Fast Track Intensive is a perfect next step for talented young dancers ready to elevate their technique in a focused, supportive environment. Designed for growth: Built on dance science, child development, and proven techniques from the School of American Ballet. Professional instruction: Experienced teachers guide each dancer with personalized feedback and mentorship. Accelerated training: Boost technique, musicality, and artistry in just one or two inspiring weeks. Strong foundation: Dancers gain the discipline and resilience needed for a future in ballet.

A half-day preparatory camp themed around the Disney movie 'Moana', designed for ages 6-9 years, offering fun activities and movement inspired by the film.

A full-day preparatory camp themed around the popular children's show 'Bluey', designed for ages 3-6 years, offering extended creative activities and dance fun.

A half-day preparatory camp themed around the popular children's show 'Bluey', designed for ages 3-6 years, offering creative activities and dance fun.