“SOLE Defined performed the coolest number of the night with its high-stepping and toe tapping blend of style”

- The Washington Post

Welcome to SOLE Defined, a nationally touring percussive dance company led by 2024 Guggenheim Choreography Fellow Ryan K. Johnson, MFA, and global Arts Educator Quynn L. Johnson, Ed.M. Fusing Body Percussion, Tap Dance, and Sand Dance, SOLE Defined transforms rhythm into electrifying performances and transformative educational experiences that connect communities, celebrate cultural heritage, and inspire audiences of all ages.

From the Doris Duke Theatre at Jacob’s Pillow to Bryant Park and The John F. Kennedy Center, as well as universities, performing arts centers, and community stages worldwide, SOLE Defined continues to push the art form forward through innovative, rhythm-driven experiences that use the power of the sole to define the soul.

PRESS KIT

“Their high-powered fusion of percussive dance, comedy, and audience participation is simply amazing”

- Claire Mayer, DansEncore

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We are headed to NYC! That’s right we are performing at Bryant Park on THURSDAY June 11, 2026 at 7pm and guess what... IT”S FREE! Now, listen we are the OPENING ACT so don’t be late! Come see Ryan K Johnson, Jodeci Milhouse, Quynn
A time was had at @apap365 !!!! @soledefinedlive had two amazing showcases representing Percussive Dance, African Diasporic Dance & Black Culture. Find out what’s next by joining our mailing list at www.soledefined.com we promise not to o
We’re proud to announce that both of our founders have received prestigious national awards! They continue to create innovative pathways for percussive dance across the nation!

🏆 Quynn Johnson, (@justquynn ) Director of Arts Education, is a 2
The journey of ZAZ continues to move audiences across the nation 💥✨ Grateful for this love: “Virtuosic performers and impactful educators — what more could you ask for?” Thank you💛 #ZAZThePerformance #DanceTheatre #HurricaneKatri
Meet Funmi —a symphony in motion, where rhythm meets grace and joy takes shape through every step. 🖤💫 From jaw-dropping improvisation to choreographing magic, Funmi moves like music lives in her bones. She’s not only the Zaz Dance Cap
🎤✨ Artist Spotlight: Claude Alexander III Vocalist | Dancer | Creative Force in Zaz When Claude walks into the room, creativity follows. As a passionate and versatile artist, he brings both technical excellence and emotional depth to every performa
Artist Spotlight: Jodeci Milhouse Associate Director & Performer for Zaz — Dynamic Diva! Jodeci Milhouse is a powerhouse performer, songwriter, Broadway artist, and rising director! From stunning vocals to captivating movement, she continu
🥳🎉CONGRATULATIONS 🎉🍾 We’re beyond proud to share that our Executive Artistic Director, @rkj.dance , has been named one of the 2025 @arts_midwest Cultural Bearers! This incredible honor recognizes his unwavering commitment to preserving an
Artists Spotlight: Quynn Johnson, Co- Founder & Director of Arts Education, Sand Queen! Quynn Johnson is a rhythmic force of nature — a genius in tap shoes and a visionary in the sand. Her captivating Sand Dance has mesmerized audiences a