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May 20, 2024 54 mins

SHOWNOTES: 

"A ballet cult?” We asked the same thing. But today’s brave guest, Summer Smith, shares what happens when the world of pliés and pirouettes meets dogmatic devotion. Raised in a strict religious family and molded by the intense world of competitive ballet, Summer's journey takes a surprising twist when she joins Ballet 58, a seemingly innocuous Christian ballet company in Chicago. Soon devotions blend with dance routines, and artistic discipline intertwines with cult-like control. As Summer navigates the thin line between dedication and manipulation, you'll be left questioning just how far the influence of a charismatic leader can reach. 

LINKS:

  • Follow Us: Instagram/Tik Tok: @wasiinacult
  • Support Us: https://www.patreon.com/wasiinacult
  • Have a story to share on our show? Email Us: info@wasiinacult.com
  • Find Summer and all the ex Ballet 58’ers sub Reddit: 

https://www.reddit.com/r/ex58/

  • Watch In The Balance:

https://vimeo.com/535912792/7551d1ed90

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