In collaboration with Pillar Church, Lindsey Hanson – Hope College alumna and associate professor of dance — and The Creative Arts Collective present a live dance event titled “Benediction,” on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at Pillar Church downtown Holland. This is a free performance open to all ages, but registration is preferred by clicking this link.
This 30-minute, live performance is directed by Hanson and co-choreographed by Hanson and soon-to-be-graduate Kaleigh Estby ‘26. With an original score composed by Jonathan Gabhart and played by musicians from the Pillar Church community, this live show features West Michigan’s leading dance and music artists.
“Benediction” is a site-specific dance performance that activates the architecture of Pillar Church through contemporary choreography and live music across Pillar's sanctuary and exterior spaces. This innovative experience will allow audience members to encounter beauty and contemplation through witnessing the body in motion. “Benediction” is intimate and tactile, revealing the worship space in new and unexpected ways. Hanson will be debuting “Benediction” in four spaces nationally in 2026, beginning at Pillar Church this Spring.
Hanson holds an MFA in dance from Montclair State University and a bachelor’s degree in dance from Hope College. Following Hanson's previous works — “Sanctuary” (Redeemer Presbyterian, NYC) and “Selah” (University of Notre Dame, associate choreographer Kaleigh Estby) — this next phase continues to explore how dance can transform sacred spaces, inviting audiences to see familiar places with new eyes. Following the performance will be a Q&A with the creative team. “Benediction” is generously funded by The Creative Arts Collective.