On Instagram, Dancing With the Stars pro-turned judge Derek Hough has announced an exciting new career path — he is the tour director for Ovation Dance.
“Derek Hough — Tour Director of OVATION. With 4 Emmys, 6 Mirrorball Trophies, and a lifetime dedicated to the artistry of dance. He’s bringing his passion and expertise to the convention space. Derek is fired up to be in the room, not just to lead, but to serve, connect, and celebrate every dancer’s journey. Here we go!” wrote Ovation on Instagram.
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On his Instagram stories, Hough says that he is “working so hard” on this new venture.
“I wanted to come on here and tell you how excited I am to be a tour director for Ovation. We are working so hard to create the ultimate dance experience for you — to be in the room with you, to dance with you, to learn, to grow, to compete. This really is a special experience. We are creating the most amazing cast of coaches and teachers and mentors, and so much more that we are planning. We cannot wait to have this experience with you all.”
Hough’s sister Julianne Hough is also a tour director for Ovation. The tour was officially revealed on Instagram on April 30. Besides the Hough siblings, it will also include Dancing With the Stars professional dancersMark Ballas, Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson
In addition to the DWTS folks, the tour also has professional dancers Talia Favia, Dom Kelley, Will Loftis, Comfort Fedoke, Robbie Blue and Nika Kljun.
The experience is billed as “a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind dance experience that’s changing the game. Our dance classes aren’t just classes — they’re a launchpad for growth, expression, and transformation,” according to the website.
It continues, “Our multi-genre lineup brings together the industry’s top teachers, choreographers, and artists—all under one roof. Every class is designed to challenge, uplift, and connect dancers of all levels through the power of movement. Ovation meets you where you are and then takes you further.”
Dates for the tour and classes can be found on the website, which is also where fans can sign up to participate.
But don’t worry, Dancing With the Stars fans. The Ovation tour and workshops/classes don’t start until December 2025, so Hough will still be front and center on the DWTS panel carrying on late judge Len Goodman’s legacy.
