Ballet 5:8’s La Llorona at the Ames Center

Step into La Llorona, where Julianna Rubio Slager tenderly reinterprets the classic Mexican myth. Through poignant choreography, she navigates Maria’s postpartum depression journey, shedding light on the silent struggles faced by many new mothers, particularly within minority communities. La Llorona is a heartfelt exploration of maternal pain, a call to action for greater awareness, support, and hope. Julianna Rubio Slager finds deep resonance in the myth of La Llorona, or The Weeping Woman. As a Chicana and mother of three, she recognizes the absence of these topics on stage and believes dance offers an ideal platform to address societal issues surrounding postpartum depression while facilitating audience education and emotional processing.
Supported by the National Museum of Mexican Art and RAICES Chicago Story Coalition, this groundbreaking work lifts the veil on Maria’s story, offering empathy, validation, and a pathway to empowerment.