Missouri State alumnus looking to dance his way to fame

In a time when professionally trained dancers can get drowned out by the hype of TV talent shows and popular YouTube videos, dancer and Missouri State University alumnus Darrell Hyche is starting to make a name for himself in the dance world.

Growing up in Kansas City, Hyche's first exposure to dance began in sixth grade at Ailey Summer Camp where he learned the basics, but his serious training did not start until his senior year of high school.

"I had very little dance training before attending MSU," said Hyche. "What initially started off as elective courses snowballed into a major, thanks to the guidance of the dance faculty."

Hyche, who graduated in May 2013 with degrees in dance performance and psychology, made the most of his time at MSU by jumping on every opportunity he had to perfect his craft. He was a member of Missouri State's Inertia Dance Company, which promotes cultural literacy through performances and workshops; an active member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, where he choreographed and participated in several MSU Homecoming and Greek Jam performances; and danced with the local step group Spazzed Out.

"Who I am as a dancer is largely due to the creative freedom I had and the encouragement and experience gained from the theatre and dance program," he said.

Dance has grown from a hobby to a profession for Hyche.

"My ultimate dream is to have a sustained and meaningful career in dance," said Hyche. "Our time is short here so I just want to embrace each opportunity I'm given to continue to do what I love."

Hyche is getting closer to making that dream come true, as he is one of the newest professional members of Modern American Dance Compan in St. Louis. He works with choreographers to interpret and execute dances with speed and precision.

Although Hyche has made his transition into the professional dance world, he said he comes back to Missouri State as much as he can to support his fraternity, attend dance concerts and even teach dance classes.

Hyche taught a contemporary dance master class at MSU this year as a part of the College of Arts and Letter's Homecoming events on Friday.

Keeping true to the traditions of Missouri State University, Hyche has found his place in the world of dance and believes his future will only get brighter from here.

"I urge students to never take an opportunity for granted," said Hyche. "Each one is a learning experience and may lead you down a path to something exciting. This experience doesn't last forever, so cherish every moment as you're in it."

Story by Britney Brown, MSU communications graduate assistant