Movement Defined by Artistry

Revolutionizing the Performing Arts Experience

Meet Our Team



Our team compromises talented individuals dedicated to pushing boundaries and fostering connections in their respective fields. with backgrounds in choreography, performance, interdisciplinary arts, and arts administration, we blend creativity with strategy. Aiming to create impactful and emotional pieces, we integrate parts of the mind, body, and soul. as active members of the arts community, we are commited to innovation and excellence in dance, acting, singing, and beyond.

Kiersten Schilling
Creator, Head Artistic Director, Choreographer, and Musical Theater Instructor

Kiersten is a talented and versatile artist with a strong background in choreography, directing, dancing, and musical theater based in Dallas, TX. She trained at Dance Industry Performing Arts Center where she had the opportunity to dance competitively, and learn from prestigious instructors. She has was trained in Musical Theater by Heather Biddle and Ethan Armstrong, and also received vocal training from Jared Schwartz. In her productions, Kiersten explores themes such as identity, human connection, and emotional resilience. Kiersten's dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with performers and audiences make her a valuable asset in the world of performing arts

Contact Kiersten
Abigail Jean
Composer, Director, Choreographer, and Holistic Fine Arts Educator

Abigail Jean (she/her) is a Dallas-based creative, director, and arts advocate with a background in fine arts education, she has combined performance, mental health, and somatic practice to use art as a tool for healing and connection. Her journey spans from classrooms to nonprofit leadership and now directing, where she blends movement, music, and meaning. As the former Artistic Director of Life is a Theatre, she crafted impactful performances and now focuses on bold, emotionally intelligent work.

Contact Abigail
Alexis Stus
Co-Creator, Movement Director, Choreographer, Dance Fine Arts Educator

Alex (she/her) is a Dallas-based choreographer and interdisciplinary artist. Before its closure, she studied at the University of the Arts, and is now taking a gap year to explore more elements of the art through creativity. Her work explores themes of identity, memory, and the intersection of body and consciousness. Alexis's recent piece will premiere at the White Wave Solo Duo Festival in NYC. Currently interning in software marketing, she blends creativity with strategy and researches AI's potential in arts administration and choreography. As a member of Arts Mission Oak Cliff Exchange Club, she aims to push boundaries and foster connections in contemporary dance.

Contact Alexis

Audition for our next show

Our next show titled "It is happening Again." will be produced by artists Kiersten Ryleigh and Alexis Stus. The show is projected to be performed at the beginning of August, and will have rehearsals over the summer for 1-2 hours at a time. To audition, submit a 30 second movement video to the song "Laura Palmers Theme" by Angelo Badalamenti. You may use any piece of the song you like. Submit your video via our team email linked at the top of our website. Auditions will close June 18th. We hope to see you soon!

Inclusions Theater

Movement Defined by Artistry is thrilled to announce the launch of our Inclusions Theater. At Movement Defined by Artistry, we are committed to being an inclusive organization, embracing the philosophy that "all means all." Inclusions Theater provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in theater shows, dance performances, music performances, and assist our team members in producing shows.

Inclusions Theater was inspired by our Creator and Head Artistic Director, Kiersten Ryleigh's brother Ethan. Ethan, a freshman at J.J. Pearce High School, loves being under the bright stage lights. He has demonstrated to everyone he meets that his disability does not limit his ability to deliver outstanding performances.

If you are interested in joining our Inclusions Theater program, please email us.

Uncover Our Passion

Artistry in Every Move

Explore the vibrant world of performing arts with us, where every movement tells a story.

What do we offer?

Our services include engaging workshops and masterclasses, captivating performances, and personalized coaching to nurture your artistic journey. If you interested in performance opportunities feel free to email us, and we can help you every step of the way!

How to book a session?

Booking is simple! Reach out to an artist by clicking the link in their bio to email them about teaching masterclasses, private lessons, choreography, or directing

How can I be a part of performances?

If you interested in performing in one of our artists productions, you can either email us or click the link in their bio to email the artist directly. Join our newsletter to stay informed on upcoming performance opportunities and upcoming shows.