Christian Holder Premieres “My Life is Dance” at Chicago Museum
Art doesn’t just move us; it challenges us. And when a life is lived with such breathtaking versatility, it becomes a powerful testament to the human spirit. The world of dance, history, and protest comes together to present a deeply moving cinematic experience: Christian Holder: My Life Is Dance.
This poignant documentary, directed by Academy Award-winning producer and director Brigitte Berman, celebrates the extraordinary life and career of Christian Holder, a multi-talented figure whose legacy spans the stage, the studio, and the turbulent social history of the mid-20th century. Premiering on October 30 and 31, 2026, the film brings together institutions—the Chicago History Museum, The Joffrey Ballet, the Chicago International Film Festival, and the Gerald Arpino Foundation—to honor Holder’s journey.
The film dives deep into Holder’s multifaceted achievements, revealing not only his celebrated career as a Joffrey Company Dancer of the 1970s but also his genius as a choreographer, theater artist, and costume designer. Through rare archival footage and revealing interviews, the documentary illuminates how Holder’s artistic output—from ballet to design—was interwoven with some of the most pivotal moments of his era.
A crucial element of the film is Holder’s acclaimed autobiographical cabarets, which serve as the very spine of the documentary. These performances, which Holder used to bring his personal stories to vibrant life through musical storytelling, offer audiences an intimate, unfiltered look at his creative process and personal narrative.
Beyond the dance floor, Holder’s artistry extended into collaborations that touched global culture. He forged a notable friendship with the celebrated singer and dancer Tina Turner, designing costumes for her during a period of immense creative energy. His influence and collaboration extended to numerous peers, including Margo Sappington, dancer and choreographer, and Trinette Singleton, who were integral to his artistic world.
But the story of Christian Holder is richer than just choreography and costuming. The documentary places his life squarely within the charged social and political currents of his time, examining the struggle for civil rights and the prejudices he navigated. It connects his powerful dance work, such as his performance of Death in Kurt Jooss’s The Green Table, to his strong opposition to the Vietnam War and his grappling with the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis.
Brigitte Berman, the director, emphasized the importance of this context. She noted that the film was essential not only to portray Holder as an artist and a man but also to clearly situate him amidst the injustices and changes of his time, recognizing that art is inseparable from the forces of change.
The documentary is a rich tapestry woven from Holder’s personal archives—photographs, paintings, home movies, and materials contributed by friends and colleagues. These materials, supplemented by contributions from the Joffrey Ballet, the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, and the Jooss Archives in Germany, offer a stunning visual and historical record of his passion and purpose.
Christian Holder passed away in 2025, but through Christian Holder: My Life Is Dance, his voice, spirit, and enduring artistry resonate forward. The film offers audiences a rare and deeply personal glimpse into the creative vision that drove him, proving that the pursuit of beauty and truth is a timeless act of defiance.
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