Derek Dunn (born 1995) is a principal dancer with the Boston Ballet.[1]
Biography
Dunn was raised in Glen Burnie, Maryland and began dancing at the Edna Lee Dance Studio, following in the steps of his older sister.[2] He attended the Kirov Academy of Ballet's summer intensive program,[2] then from 2009 to 2012, trained at the Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia.[1][3][4]
Before joining a professional company, Dunn earned multiple awards, including the Youth America Grand Prix (2008),[2] the Junior Gold Medal (2010), the Senior Gold Medal at the Youth America Grand Prix (2012),[2] and the Junior Bronze Medal in USA International Ballet Competition (2010).[1]
Dunn joined the Houston Ballet in 2012.[1] In 2015, he sustained injuries to both feet, forcing him to pause his dance career for six months.[2] Despite his injuries, he was promoted to demi-soloist in 2016.[5] During his time with the Houston Ballet, Dunn received many positive reviews.[6][7]
He was named one of Dance magazine's "25 to Watch" in 2014[8] and an Outstanding Male Dancer in Dance Europe for the 2013–2014 season. He was also on the cover of October/November 2016 issue of Pointe magazine.[9][2]
Dunn joined the Boston Ballet as a soloist in 2017 and was promoted to principal dancer in 2018.[1] He has received many positive reviews of his performances since joining.[10][11][12][13][14]
In 2021, Dunn danced at the Festival South Road Trip,[15] as well as the USA International Ballet Competition Showcase.[16]