Reviews & Testimonials

“As screen heartthrob and leading man Don Lockwood, Derek Luscutoff is a terrific actor and singer. He handles the role with confidence and is the lynchpin for this work. Were he to be too stiff or to lack any of the warmth we detect from his character’s feelings for the young Kathy Selden (Anna Laura Birbiglia) or his abiding friendship with Cosmo Brown (Parker Lowrie), the work would not resonate with the audience as much. But fear not, Luscutoff executes his role with absolute perfection.”

Alan Smason
WYES-TV Theatre Critic (New Orleans)

 "Derek is one of the most kind and encouraging people in the business. He’s a true quadruple threat. He can whisk you away with his voice, dance circles around you, make you cry whilst smiling, and then play you a tune on his piano. His eagerness to share his talent is unparalleled. He is patient and precise with his critique and yields amazing results in whatever he sets his mind to. Anyone who is anyone should count it as a blessing to get the opportunity to work with him."

Brynn Smith
Nat'l Tour 'Mamma Mia,' Norwegian Cruise Line Production Singer

"Derek is a phenomenal instructor! I was re-learning how to sing while working with him for Norwegian Cruise Line, and Derek instructed me with kindness, patience, and precise instruction to help me find my voice & style. He picked the perfect songs to build my book, and I still use his cuts today in my auditions. 12/10 for instruction, encouragement, and creating a fun, safe learning environment!"

Nicole Rae Jones
​Nat’l Tour 'Legally Blonde,' Nat’l Tour 'An American in Paris'

"Working with Derek is such an uplifting and productive experience. He is always willing to lend a helping hand near or far. My vocal lessons spent with Derek really helped me to focus in on the proper technique of breath and intent within lyric. Derek played piano and sent me a voice memo of an audition cut that I asked for last minute...he is an absolute hero and an educated, kind, talented instructor!"

Faith Jordan Candino
​Regent Seven Seas Cruises & Norwegian Cruise Line Dancer

 "Derek is an absolute joy to work with. Whilst we were on board the Regent Navigator, Derek and I choreographed and created a mainstage show based on the Golden Age of Broadway and Hollywood. His passion and love for the arts completely shines through when he's teaching and he was always there with words of encouragement that made me feel like a star! His choreography is very intricate and his attention to detail made every routine look professional, crisp and clean. I couldn't recommend him enough."

Sarah Morley
​Regent Seven Seas Cruises & Norwegian Cruise Line Singer/Dancer

"Derek is a rare diamond in the rough! He has been my music director and accompanist on several occasions for various musical shows and recording projects. He is absolutely lovely to work with, has such a warm energy, and I can always rely on him to deliver top notch work in a timely manner. He is a well rounded artist and on several occasions I’ve noticed how his different fields of expertise influence one another which in my opinion, gives him an edge. For instance, he can use his knowledge about choreography and his “dance mind” which will correlate to a brilliant composing idea. In other words, he is creative, smart, and unique in what he has to offer in all areas of the performing arts. I can not recommend Derek and his services highly enough!"

Julia Taylor
Lyricist - BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Advanced Workshop

"Derek is a hard working individual. He was my Music Director for our school productions. He led the children with a gentle demeanor but a firm grasp of the musical material and the task at hand.
Derek is self-motivated as well as a leader and example to those around him. He is serious about completing a goal and applying whatever “extras” are necessary to achieve a polished product. Derek is not a quitter. His reputation is attributed to his professional attitude and exceptional work ethics."

Ron Pickett
Voice/Music/Dramatic Arts Instructor (Orinda, CA)

"Working with Derek was a great experience. As a pianist he is extremely talented, not just at playing the piano, but musically as well. Derek helped me create my performance of the song "Stars" by Grace Potter into something amazing. He gave exactly the life I wanted to give the song. Honestly, it was almost too easy for me to explain the way I wanted it to sound and him play what I wanted and much more. Derek does not only bring music but also passion to the performance, which is what every artist wants in a song."

Grace Leer
Alumna; University of California, Berkeley

 "Derek is such a joy to work with. His repertoire entertains audiences young or old. He can virtually entertain in any setting or occasion. His flexibility, professionalism and performance is commendable. I highly recommend him and will certainly hire him again."

Rudy and Anabelle Galera
Alamo, CA

"Derek's talent as a musician, singer and teacher was apparent to all of us--clients and staff alike. His sensitivity to the needs of our clients, most of whom live with Alzheimer's disease and related conditions, was inspiring and healing. The great care he took in preparing for his classes was clearly evident. Our clients were enthralled. Derek is a true professional. We will miss him greatly."

Deborah Janke, M.A.
Executive Director, West County Adult Day/Alzheimer's Respite Care Center (Richmond, CA)

"Working with Derek was a supportive, satisfying and learning experience. I felt like I could ask him any questions while relying on him creatively to enhance our performance. I have dreamed of musical collaboration for years and working with him met that long awaiting need. I want more!"


Carenna Willmont
Alumna; University of California, Berkeley

 "As an Activities Coordinator at a low-income senior facility, one of my challenges has been finding a way to reach out to our Chinese and Korean-speaking residents. While listening to Derek perform, I looked around the room and saw people of all backgrounds engaged and connected by that unique universal community that music evokes. Derek had truly reached out to the residents, made eye contact with each person, extended warmth and genuine interest. He was able to set a tone that made people feel part of something; I think we all felt the cheer and solace of shared experience. Beyond his ability to put a twinkle in the eyes of our residents, Derek conveyed the dedication and expertise of a true professional."

Rebecca Rosman
Activities Coordinator, Alice Court (Oakland, CA)