Dancing For Hope
Orland Park – Just like in the rest of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has had countless impacts in the dance community as dance companies and schools have closed their physical spaces and gone virtual. Nonetheless, amid weeks and months of dancers taking classes in their kitchens and living rooms, there has been a silver lining: when you take class online, the possibilities for collaboration are limitless. On June 20, Ballet 5:8 is taking advantage of this by hosting a virtual master class series featuring five master teachers from around the U.S. and is extending the invitation to dancers anywhere. The added bonus: dancing for a cause. All of the proceeds will be donated to World Relief. Registration for a single class is $15 and $40 for the full series. For more information and to register, visit ballet58.org/hope.
“Dance for Hope is an opportunity for all the passionate and caring dancers in our worldwide community to give back by coming together” shared Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, who had the idea to host the event. "I can think of nothing more powerful right now than dancers coming together to support the vulnerable by raising funds for the important work of World Relief.” World Relief, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, is dedicated to serving the most vulnerable in our communities. According to the nonprofit’s website dedicated to their COVID-19 response, “...it’s precisely for moments like this that World Relief exists — to bring hope, healing and restoration to those who are suffering and to equip our churches and communities to do the same.” According to their site, World Relief is working to respond to the urgent physical needs of the most vulnerable, ensuring immigrants have virtual access to the essential services they need, and providing basic health and safety awareness education in light of the pandemic.
Dancers at intermediate and advanced levels will be excited about the variety of experience and knowledge represented in the event faculty. Cecilia Iliesiu, a current dancer with Pacific Northwest Ballet, will start off the day with a ballet technique class. Steve Rooks, a former member of Martha Graham Dance Company, will teach modern. Frederick Davis, formerly with Dance Theater of Harlem, will teach men's class, while Slager teaches the ladies a pointe barre. The day will conclude with a contemporary repertoire segment, taught by a final guest. Thanks to the online platform, faculty and participants alike will be able to interact from wherever they are, even if they're on separate sides of the country.
ABOUT BALLET 5:8 - Founded in 2012, Ballet 5:8 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization based just outside of Chicago, IL. The mission of Ballet 5:8 is to engage communities in Chicago, the Midwest and across the nation in conversation of life and faith through innovative storytelling and breathtaking dance.