Curt Holman Talks About His Dance Journey On and Off the Stage in December Faith + Works Lecture
BYU dance professor Curt Holman presented to a full hall in the Richard’s Building Dance Performance Theatre as he spoke of how his choreography and direction of the BYU Ballroom Dance Company testify of the dynamic balance of order and chaos in life’s journey.
“Order provides clarity, predictability and stability,” he said. “It helps us make sense of the world, navigate complexity and accomplish our goals efficiently. It’s the structure that allows us to thrive and build a foundation for success.”
“On the other hand, chaos brings new perspectives and unexpected moments. While it may feel uncomfortable, chaos often leads to breakthroughs and discoveries that pure order could never produce."
Holman talked about balancing order and chaos to foster “growth, innovation and the fulfillment of our divine potential.”
He shared personal stories, cited scriptures and guided dancers to demonstrate how chaos, with intentional effort, can be transformed into order, reflecting experiences in life.
Holman spoke of how the challenges during his mission led him to better recognize the Spirit and how scriptures and General Conference talks affirmed the trial in chaos as yielding unpredictable wisdom.
Dancers demonstrated three distinct styles of the waltz: the social dance, the highly technical International style and the expressive American Smooth style. Holman highlighted how each style offers unique opportunities for expression and refinement. He also emphasized the importance of using the stage as a blank canvas, where intentionally crafted movement pathways create a structure that feels organic and engages the audience emotionally.
Faculty, staff and students applauded loudly after a beautifully performed and choreographed winter-themed dance and Holman answered questions about how to generate new ideas, get people to follow creative vision and deal with opposition. He said helping others understand your intention and being willing to have open conversations helps carry out his choreographic vision. He also said that having a supportive family and great dancers that he can trust to embody his message have been key to his development as an artist and disciple.
Two such dancers commented on what it was like to create Holman’s vision. Tucker Urry said he was impressed with the way Holman uses dance to teach University 101, a general education class that helps students “understand the unique mission and purpose of BYU, connect with other students and faculty in meaningful and lasting ways, and make the most of your BYU experience.” Though studying computer engineering, he is also part of the BYU Ballroom Showcase team. He appreciates Holman helping him understand academics through dance. Noah Horlach, a finance major member of BYU’s Ballroom Dance Company, said he admires Holman's passion as a director and loved the lecture. “I think it’s very telling that he cares so much about his students,” he said. “He ties dance experience into the gospel. He’s making dance apply to every context of life.”
