School of Ballet 5:8 - Orland Park, Illinois

Amanda Lewallen

If you are scouring the internet for reviews of Ballet 5:8 like I was, I hope this one is helpful to you. My 14 year old daughter attended Ballet 5:8's summer intensive for three weeks (June-July 2024). This was her very first summer intensive and also her very first significant stay away from home! We live in northern New England and chose Ballet 5:8 because they are Christian and because she was looking to improve her technique -- and also because she was hoping to have a few fun, big-city outings in Chicago 🙂

I was very nervous for her to travel so far away and because some of the reviews out there were concerning. Before sending her, I reached out about my concerns. Many staff members took the time to talk to me and allowed me to ask hard questions. They were patient, open, professional, and welcoming. I had a genuine sense that the instructors/professionals I spoke to cared about the students and were committed to helping them grow in a safe environment.

Her summer experience could not have gone more smoothly. She loved the dorms, the food, her roommates, the RA"s and all her classes and teachers. Other than being a little homesick, the experience was nothing but positive for her. She learned a lot, even more than she expected to! And she even got her Chicago shopping trip!

She already plans to go back next summer for the full five weeks and I feel fully confident that she will be well cared for.

gena algenio

I started my dance education here a lot later than most girls my age, and Ballet 5:8 has not failed to make a nurturing and inspiring environment for me throughout these past 5 years. I love my teachers and the people I dance with so much, highly recommend!!

Angela Hartford

Great teachers, very engaging for my little (6yo) ballerina. She’s learned a lot. Small class sizes allow for lots of attention. There are 2 performances/year. She loved performing with the company on stage. One small drawback since the main company is in Orland Park, the Lakeview campus feels a little removed from the community. But love that this studio space is near our home. ❤️

Catherine Maxwell

Ballet 5:8 was my daughter’s 5th SDI. She was looking for a new SDI experience that was also Christian-based and so it was a perfect fit. The audition was very challenging and so she was pleased when she made the pre-professional level. Her 2-week experience was very positive, despite not knowing anyone ahead of time. She liked that the program was a bit smaller and enjoyed her roommates and residence advisors, had fun commuting to the studio together and doing fun things after classes finished. The RAs took good care of her when she felt unwell, the teachers were kind and patient in their instruction, and she made some sweet new friendships. The showcase was beautiful.

Jennifer Kowach

My daughter began her professional dance career as a trainee in the School of Ballet 5:8. It was a bit scary to send my child off into the world of dance on her own, but the community she found at Ballet 5:8 has helped her grow into not only an excellent dancer, but a vibrant and confident young woman. The instructors are knowledgeable and supportive, and the environment is nurturing and affirming. I appreciate the personalized attention that she received from instructors, as well as the gentle corrections that helped her to improve her technique without feeling discouraged.

I am also impressed by the strong sense of community that the school fosters. Dancers are encouraged to uplift each other and form a positive support system, which makes the experience all the more enjoyable.

Overall, I would highly recommend the School of Ballet 5:8 to anyone looking for excellent technical dance instruction in a safe and supportive environment. The school offers classes for dancers of all levels, from early childhood to pre-professional and professional trainee levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer, you'll find everything you need to grow and thrive at the School of Ballet 5:8.

Rachel Walker

I am a current professional dancer at Ballet 5:8, and I started in the School of Ballet 5:8. I completed their Trainee and Second Company programs. Looking back, I'm very grateful for my training. It prepared me technically, artistically, mentally, physically for the busy life of a professional. The teachers are really great at giving individual corrections to each student and not letting anyone fall through the cracks. I would not be where I am today without their guidance!

Lori Evenhouse

Ballet 5:8 has been such a valuable place for our daughter to grow as a dancer, but also grow physically, socially and spiritually from grade school and through middle school. We are very thankful that Ballet 5:8 is such a positive and healthy environment while also providing really high-quality ballet instruction!

Selah Strong

I would highly recommend Ballet 5:8 to any dancer. The school offers quality training in all styles and levels. The professional company creates beautiful new works of choreography that captivate every audience member. The community at Ballet 5:8 is warm and welcoming with faculty that care for each individual. Dancers thrive in this environment, developing strong technique, respect for their peers, good work ethic, and a love for the art form.