Derek is highly skilled across a wide range of dance vocabularies and is also an accomplished acrobat, singer, pianist, and actor. He travels nationwide teaching at studios, serves as an adjudicator for dance competitions, and choreographs for both stage and camera.
Having worked with California Dance Classics for several years, Derek plays an integral role in creating a seamless, dancer-focused backstage environment. Known for his calm, nurturing, and highly organized presence, he brings a steady sense of clarity and reassurance to California Dance Classics performers. His background as a professional dancer makes his role as stage manager a natural progression, allowing him to anticipate the needs of dancers and support a professional, well-paced, and supportive competition experience.
After attaining a BFA in Dance Performance from Chapman University, Derek signed with BLOC Talent Agency and began an extensive career as a professional dancer. He has worked with artists including Arcade Fire, Vagabon, Todrick Hall, Bob the Drag Queen, Fitz and the Tantrums, Big Black Delta, Bonnie McKee, Earth, Wind & Fire, Rachel York, and Hugh Jackman.
Choreography highlights include his 2018 commercial with Hi-Chew, which was renewed for an additional year, and his choreography for In Camera by Yumi Zouma, which was nominated for Best Choreography in a Music Video at the UK Music Video Awards.
Passion, precision, and tenacity are central to Derek’s work — qualities that continue to shape his contributions as a Stage Manager and creative professional with California Dance Classics.