On October 5th and 6th at the Harris Theatre Chicago, Ballet 5:8 adds yet another variation of "La Llorona" to shine light on the postpartum epidemic affecting women and families in modern society. Inspired by experiences from her own postpartum depression journey, Ballet 5:8 Founder and Artistic Director, Julianna Rubio Slager, uses this version of La Llorona to unpack the unresolved issues that could lead to tragic outcomes both in the tale and in real life when women are not properly cared for during postpartum.
La Llorona is a haunting figure with variations that reflect cultural nuances and social issues across different regions. Her story often centers on themes of loss, betrayal, and sorrow, which resonate deeply with many people.
"La Llorona," at Harris Theatre Oct. 5 & 6/Photo by Jeffrey Yin
In Guatemala, her tale highlights the destructive consequences of infidelity and the desperation that can lead to tragic decisions. In the United States and Mexico, she becomes a cautionary figure, embodying parental fears and the dangers that lurk near water, while also tapping into deeper anxieties about motherhood and loss. In Venezuela, her grief can be seen as a reflection of societal issues, such as violence and familial strife, emphasizing the emotional turmoil that leads to her tragic fate.
By focusing on her trauma rather than just the horror she represents, we can explore the underlying issues that lead to her actions. La Llorona becomes a symbol of the consequences of societal pressures, emotional pain and the struggles faced by women, particularly in patriarchal contexts. Her story serves as a reminder of the complexities of motherhood, humanity and the overlooked narratives of despair that shape our myths.
After digging deeper to ask why, Slager raises the following questions in the ballet, “Who is this woman in the La Llorona tales? I wanted to find out why she would resort to unconscionable acts of violence. Mothers take care of everyone. And when I see this kind of woman, I ask what got her to this point? Why do we dismiss their pain instead of circling around these moms to give them the support they need?”
Slager continues that men as caregivers need to be rallied around for support as well. Stating men can oftentimes become delusional as a result of both the depression they witness in the mother of their children and the lack of support they receive during a vulnerable time.
Ballet 5:8’s contemporary version of La Llorona takes a closer look at these complexities of the postpartum experience.
La Llorona is re-energized through key partnerships with The National Museum of Mexican Art, an all-female mariachi band as a part of the pre-show performance, and Ballet 5:8's longtime costume designer Lorianne Robertson. Historically, one of the most unique elements of Ballet 5:8’s performances is their innovative costume choices; La Llorona will be no different. Utilizing earth tones, brick reds, cactus and earthy shades, the costumes are traditional Mexican design, a lightweight folklorico blend and both traditional and cutting edge, complimented by interactive lighting designed by Michael Goebel.
"La Llorona," at Harris Theatre Oct. 5 & 6/Photo by Jeffrey Yin
Adding to the unique attire is unusual female partnering, featuring epic duets that highlight the strength of women, in particular when they come together as nurturers.
The traditions of folklorico are inherently and explicitly explored through the use of Huapango rhythms, which is a Nahuatl word which means “on top of the wood,” and son huasteco styles, which are a blend of both spanish and indigenous musical influences.
“I did folklorico as a little girl, but now as a ballet dancer, I felt like it always lacked rhythm. Taking the ideas of folklorico and using percussive sounds with ballet, it truly captures my spirit, I don’t dance to get my leg up. I feel free to hear rhythm and to move. Taking in folklorico influences, you are a real person. It’s how I like to tell a story, using the whole being and not leaving out any parts,” explains Slager.
Although we all may not have grown up hearing about La Llorona as the bogeyman, or heard the haunting song as an adult, we all know a woman who has given birth. We all stem from cultures that have cultivated circles of women who have used traditional forms of medicine and care to see about one another. In true Ballet 5:8 fashion, they have taken a classic tale and made it into an accessible and relevant story. Highlighting our current societal issues, calling us to urgently be active citizens, aiming to encourage better communication and strengthen support systems amongst families, especially during critical times such as postpartum pregnancy.
"La Llorona" will captivate our eyes with Ballet 5:8’s exquisite visual artistry and touch our hearts with their compelling storytelling.
"La Llorona" is presented by Ballet 5:8 at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph. Showtimes are Oct. 5 at 7:30pm; Oct. 6 at 3pm. Tickets are $17-$86 at harristheatrechicago.org.
