Derek is a dynamic and multifaceted individual, residing in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where he has established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, boasting an impressive array of achievements that transcend various mediums, including stage, film, and voiceover productions, showcasing his remarkable versatility and adaptability as a performer.
From the verdant expanses of Wisconsin's rolling hills and fertile farmland, Derek's innate affinity for the world of theatre began to take shape at a tender age. As he navigated the formative years of his life, his passion for the performing arts only continued to intensify, eventually leading him to enroll at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he embarked on a rigorous academic journey by majoring in theatre.
Within the esteemed institution, Derek had the privilege of participating in a plethora of productions, showcasing his remarkable talent and versatility by assuming the lead roles in a diverse range of shows. These included the iconic and provocative CABARET, the timeless and thought-provoking OEDIPUS, and the beloved and bombastic JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR.
Derek's post-college journey saw him dedicate himself to refining his skills within Chicago's vibrant theatre community, a nurturing environment that allowed him to flourish and lay the groundwork for his future endeavors. Subsequently, he made the bold decision to relocate to Los Angeles, a city renowned for its thriving film industry, in order to seize the opportunities that awaited him.
Throughout his burgeoning career in the film world, Derek has amassed an impressive array of credits, including the critically acclaimed SOCKET, the engaging 3-DAY WEEKEND, and the festive holiday comedy MAKE THE YULETIDE GAY. This latter project proved to be a crowning achievement, as it earned Derek the esteemed People's Choice Award at the prestigious San Diego Film Festival, a testament to his remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.
Derek's illustrious career has been characterized by an unwavering dedication to the world of stage acting, with a diverse range of roles in productions spanning the Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Long Beach areas. His extensive repertoire includes iconic performances in notable plays such as HAMLET, CLOUD 9, and CATCHING THE BUTCHER, each showcasing his remarkable talent and versatility as an actor.
In addition to his impressive work on stage, Derek has also taken on a significant role as a panel judge for the esteemed PANNDORA'S BOX Annual New Works Festival in Southern California. This esteemed position allows him to utilize his expertise and artistic acumen to evaluate and provide valuable feedback on submissions, playing a crucial role in nurturing and promoting innovative new works in the region.
Derek has embarked upon a significant career expansion, assuming the dual responsibilities of director and acting instructor, thereby not only augmenting his professional portfolio but also further solidifying his presence within the industry.
Derek's fundamental ideology revolves around a profound dedication to fostering a sense of community, thereby embracing the prospect of seizing opportunities that may arise, regardless of geographical constraints.
In his personal sphere, Derek is blessed to be in a happy and fulfilling marriage, and he shares his domestic abode with two felines and a canine companion.
When not engaged in professional pursuits, Derek can often be found indulging in his passion for horticulture, where he derives immense solace and tranquility from the simple yet profound act of observing the growth and development of the various plants in his garden.
