Derek, a native of the vibrant city of Chicago, has a rich and storied background in the city's thriving improv scene, having had the unique privilege of being trained from a young age under the esteemed Piven Theatre Workshop and the prestigious Interlochen Arts Camp.
He further expanded his educational pursuits at Indiana University, where he had the distinction of co-founding the improv troupe Full Frontal Comedy, all while concurrently taking classes at some of the most renowned institutions in the field, including the iconic Second City and the illustrious iO (formerly Improv Olympic).
Derek has been a highly influential and accomplished figure within the vibrant Los Angeles improv community for a remarkable period of over 15 years, effortlessly juggling both performances and teaching engagements.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has maintained a strong presence on the improv scene, consistently bringing his unique talents to the stage.
One of his most notable achievements is his ongoing involvement with the esteemed i.O. West, where he is a proud member of the esteemed troupe Opening Night: The Improvised Musical!
Notably, he has accumulated an impressive 650 performances to date, a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for his craft.
His remarkable tenure with Opening Night: The Improvised Musical! has cemented his status as a stalwart of the Los Angeles improv community, earning him widespread recognition and respect within the industry.
In the year 2008, Derek embarked on a touring escapade with Second City at Sea, a journey that ultimately culminated in his securing a prominent role on MTV's reality television series, "The Hills: According to Me", where he astonishingly portrayed a staggering twenty distinct characters.
The subsequent year, he joined the ranks of the esteemed Comedy Central series "Secret Girlfriend", assuming the role of Phil and simultaneously serving as a consultant writer, bringing his unique perspective and comedic expertise to the project.
In the year 2012, Derek made a deliberate decision to broaden his acting scope by accepting a role in the hour-long comedy television series "Wedding Band," which aired on TBS, where he took on the character of Barry, the drummer for the band, a talent he had not previously possessed or mastered.
