Welcome to Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s home for on-demand streaming video! In this video, Founder & Artistic Director Nate Jacobs interviews dynamic dancer, singer and actor Derric Gobourne Jr.

Derric starred in our 2020 Young Artist Program, The Greatest Entertainer. His amazing dance moves, soulful singing and engaging personality have captivated audiences since he first appeared on the WBTT stage in 2014. Enjoy Nate’s interview with Derric about his influences and what WBTT has meant to him and his career. As a special treat, Derric also sings his original song, “Colors,” from his debut album, Supremacy.

We hope you enjoyed Nate Jacobs’ visit with Derric Gobourne Jr. Here’s a clip that showcases Derric’s singing, dancing and all-around showmanship. It’s from his Young Artist Program in March 2020, The Greatest Entertainer.

DERRIC GOBOURNE JR. has appeared in WBTT’s productions of Your Arms Too Short to Box with God, Black Nativity, Raisin, A Motown Christmas, In the Heights, Soul Man and Rockin’ Down Fairytale Lane, among others. He made his debut appearance with WBTT in the summer of 2013 at the age of 12, as the talented Little Stevie Wonder in Best of Stevie Wonder. In 2019 he appeared in WBTT’s production of Soul Man at the National Black Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem, NC. A graduate of Manatee High School and a self-taught musician, Derric has set his sights on becoming the greatest entertainer of all time. So it’s no coincidence that the title of his 2020 WBTT Young Artist Program was The Greatest Entertainer.

In June 2018, Derric released his debut album, Supremacy, which was re-released in Japan. The album is available on every digital platform, including YouTube,iTunes, Spotify and Google Play Music. In July 2020, Derric recorded a video of his song “Make Time for Love” with 30+ other artists from around the world, with all profits donated to charities working to fight against child abuse. Also this year, he released an album of holiday music, “Oh What Fun!,” with proceeds benefiting Toys for Tots Sarasota.

“I’m so proud of Derric,” says WBTT Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs. “He’s a great example of a young person who developed his performance skills on our stage and has taken flight and built a wonderful career. He’s a true role model who shows by example how WBTT trains, develops and launches new talent.”

Visit Derric Gobourne Jr.’s Facebook page to see his latest news and music.

Want to know more about our Young Artist Program that gives talented young performers like Derric an opportunity to showcase their talents in their own production? CLICK HERE to visit our Young Artist Program page.

Did you miss any of our previous interviews with WBTT favorites? Click on the links below to watch them now!

Stay tuned for more songs and stories from your favorite WBTT performers — plus videos of vintage WBTT performances and special events!