About Derrick

Derrick Schrader is a Los Angeles based choreographer, artistic director, dance educator, and visual artist whose career has taken him from his roots in Minnesota to stages and studios around the world. With nearly two decades of experience as a touring dance convention educator under the mentorship of dance icon Joe Tremaine, Derrick has become known for his dynamic teaching style, creative vision, and ability to connect with dancers of every level.

Throughout his career, Derrick has contributed to projects for MTV, ESPN, Emmy award winning Abbott Elementary,  the Disney Channel, Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders: Making the Team, and Fox's So You Think You Can Dance. His work has placed him alongside celebrated artists and creatives including Paula Abdul, Evanescence, Miley Cyrus, Lindsay Lohan, Kali J, contestants from RuPaul's Drag Race, Todrick Hall, Steven Spielberg, Kenny Ortega, and tap legend Gregory Hines.

As an educator, Derrick has taught and mentored dancers through LA Establishment, The Space, CLI Conservatory, Chapman University, LSU Tiger Girls, USC Kaufman School of Dance, and the University of Minnesota Dance Team, inspiring the next generation of performers through both technical excellence and artistic exploration.

His choreography has received widespread recognition, earning him 24 Industry Dance Awards nominations, the Favorite Convention Teacher of the Year honor, and a World Choreography Award for his work Musica, featuring LA Establishment dancers.

Derrick remains committed to expanding the creative potential of every artist he works with. Now also certified in yoga and breathwork, he integrates movement, mindfulness, and self-awareness into his teaching, empowering dancers to develop not only exceptional technique, but a deeper connection to themselves and their artistry.