The Texas Tech University BFA Dance Program continues to distinguish itself as one of the most vibrant, rigorous, and forward-thinking training grounds for young artists in West Texas. Through innovative curriculum design, faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary collaborations, and national recognition, the program is shaping dancers who are technically strong, creatively bold, and professionally prepared.

A Leader Shaped by Dance

The director of the BFA Dance Program, Kyla Olson, recalls that her passion began at age three, after watching The Nutcracker for the first time. That early spark grew into a lifelong commitment to movement, creativity, and teaching. Now, leading the program has expanded her artistic voice: “Being a leader has pushed me to advocate more for our program. At the same time, my empathy as an artist and my physical connection to movement help me understand what our students need.” For her, teaching and leadership constantly enrich one another.

A Close-Knit Program in A Major University Setting

One of the program’s strengths is its balance between intimacy and opportunity. Though the cohort is small and community-driven, students still enjoy the full experience of a large university—athletics, student life, campus organizations, and a vibrant arts scene.

This blend of family-like support and major-school resources distinguishes the BFA Dance Program nationally.

At its core, the BFA program aims to develop dancers who are versatile, entrepreneurial, and imaginative. Students train technically in ballet, contemporary, jazz, and now—distinctively—hip-hop as a required technique, a rarity among university dance programs. They also engage in writing, creative practice, choreography, design elements, and interdisciplinary collaborations.

“We want them to have long, smart careers,” Olson notes. “We push them to think beyond the familiar, to find their artistic voice and explore new directions.”

Training That Builds Strong Healthy Artists

The program takes student wellness seriously, recognizing that dance demands both physical and emotional resilience. Faculty monitor injuries, check in on students’ mental health, and encourage healthy sleep and nutrition habits.

This year, the program added a Dance Conditioning course, regular access to Pilates reformers, a new Rest and Recovery Room equipped with massage tools, heat and ice therapy, and a private space for overwhelmed students. Plans are underway to bring in sports medicine specialists to support dancers even further.

A Faculty Committed to Mentorship

Students train with a diverse and accomplished faculty whose strengths range from ballet and counter-technique to breaking, hip-hop, jazz, musical theatre, and choreography. Faculty mentor students through

• technique classes at multiple levels
• choreography development
• one-on-one semester evaluations
• hands-on guidance for festival works
• professional advice and industry preparation

The program also strengthens connections with alumni, inviting them back to teach, mentor, and share their professional journeys.

Creating, Performing and Being Seen

Choreography and performance are central to the BFA experience. Students create original work in choreography courses, Friday company classes, the Marfa Intensive, and senior projects. They perform throughout campus, in the community, and at major dance conferences. Collaboration is a hallmark of the program. Students work with

• theatre movement practitioners
• musicians and student composers
• artists and designers
• local dance companies such as Ballet Lubbock and Flatland Dance Theatre

These experiences broaden their creative vocabulary and prepare them for the collaborative nature of the performing arts industry.

Students Who Are Career Ready

Because the program emphasizes technical depth, creative exploration, and professional readiness, graduates are already finding success in the industry.

Last year, the program reached a new milestone when student choreographer Ryleigh deMontalvo's work was selected for presentation at the national ACDA festival in Washington, D.C.—a first in the school’s history.

Her piece explored the theme of miscommunication through dancers embodying paper, ink, and shifting emotional states. “Seeing our work recognized on a national stage meant everything,” Ryleigh said. “It wasn’t just my success; it was ours.”

This year, senior Melissa Casillas secured a contract with a cruise line, beginning immediately after graduation. She credits the BFA company class—mock auditions, professional headshots, fast-paced training, and regular exposure to guest artists—for preparing her: “Our professors pushed us beyond our limits. “I feel genuinely ready for the professional world.” Other graduates are already performing with companies, teaching across Texas, choreographing statewide, and building independent artistic careers.

Guest Artists and National Exposure

Each year, the program brings guest artists for residencies, masterclasses, and choreography. Students have worked with hip-hop and commercial dancers, movement specialists, nutritionists, and creators working across multiple disciplines. The program also provides travel opportunities to ACDA, the National Dance Educators conference, and other national gatherings—ensuring students to stay connected to the wider dance community.

A Community That Shapes Artists and People

What remains most memorable for many students is the community. Alumni consistently describe the program as supportive, encouraging, and life changing.

“I learned patience, resilience, and how to reflect before rushing forward,” Melissa said. “This program shaped me as a dancer—and as a human being.”

Ryleigh shares a similar sentiment: “The dancers here are incredible, and the community is special. If I need help years from now, I know I can reach out to someone from this program.” 

Both current students and alumni encourage future dancers to embrace experimentation, take risks, and make mistakes.

“Push yourself outside your box,” Melissa advises. “That’s where growth happens.”

Ryleigh adds, “Stay authentic. Do what feels true to you. The audience can always feel honesty.”

TTU BFA Dance Program: Where Dancers Become Artists, Leaders and Innovators

With its dedicated faculty, rigorous training, interdisciplinary approach, and nurturing community, the TTU BFA Dance Program is preparing the next generation of dancers to thrive—on stage, in the studio, and beyond.