By DeVaughn Douglas
Forward Times
Reprinted – by Texas Metro News
https://www.forwardtimes.com/
Houston’s cultural spirit has always been defined by its willingness to blur lines, cross genres, and bring communities together through creativity. Dancing with the Houston Stars has become one of the clearest reflections of that spirit. The most recent Golden Edition offered another powerful reminder of what happens when artistry, courage, and community share the same stage. This year, that story included an unexpected figure stepping away from the director’s chair and into the spotlight: Derrick “D-Reck” Dixon of Wreckshop Records, who quickly became one of the evening’s most anticipated performers. He joined a roster of leaders and creators who embraced the joy—and vulnerability—of dancing for a cause.
D-Reck’s journey to the stage began when La’Torria Lemon of Lemon Lime Light Media called to tell him he was confirmed as one of the featured stars. He laughed when he thought back on it. He had one question:
“What is it about and what is it for?”
Once he learned that the show supported Urban Souls Dance Company and its work with dancers and youth, he agreed on the spot.
“I feel like it is a great cause. It is something beneficial to the community, and I kind of wanted to get out of my element and take on a challenge—something that could be fun but for a good purpose.”
Urban Souls founder Harrison Guy envisioned the event for that exact reason. Years earlier, he searched for a new way to fundraise.
“I was trying to figure out how we can raise money without having a gala,” Guy said. “What can we do that our community will respond to? I thought, a lot of people like to dance or used to dance or have some connection to dancing. I think they might dance with us.” When he asked Dr. Mia K. Wright, Co-Pastor of The Fountain of Praise, to participate in the very first edition and she immediately said yes, the future of the event took shape.
Urban Souls itself was founded in 2004 after Guy returned from training at the Alvin Ailey School in New York. He wanted to create a professional company rooted in Black stories, Black creativity, and opportunities for Black dancers.
“We are all about telling Black stories and giving Black dancers a space to dance.”
The company spent the next twenty years building youth programs, preserving local history through movement, and nurturing dancers across the city.
Dancing with the Houston Stars became a way to draw the community into that mission. Over the years, the event has featured local personalities, faith leaders, educators, business owners, and civic figures. Guy said the same transformation happens year after year.
“Nothing beats seeing people accomplish something firsthand,” Guy said. “People say they cannot do this at the first rehearsal and then stand in front of the judges by the end. That transformation is powerful.”
The recent Golden Edition honored performers who were fifty and older. The lineup included Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum, Derrick “D-Reck” Dixon, Gretchen Jean, Kathy Flanagan Payton, Kenneth Gayle, Dr. Carlin Barnes, Chef Earl Ray, Erica Davis Rouse, Joseph Earle, and Darlette Johnson Bailey. MATCH filled with excitement as each pair delivered routines that captured the beauty of movement. The crowd witnessed soulful contemporary storytelling, energetic cultural tributes, and two stunning showcase pieces by the Urban Souls youth company.
For D-Reck, the process demanded a level of focus he rarely had to tap into. Known across Houston for directing artists and shaping visual stories, he now found himself taking instruction.
“I hope I am a good student. I played sports my whole life, so I do not mind being coached. I trust her. She knows what to do,” he said, laughing as he described working with his partner and choreographer, Anaya, during rehearsals at the Deluxe Theater just days before the performance.
“Every time I thought I was getting comfortable, she would throw something new in there. I had to fix my face and get in game mode. We were running out of time, and I needed to get it together.”
When the music started, that work showed—just as the dedication of every performer who took the stage that evening did. The night closed with the announcement of the champions, each honor representing a different kind of achievement.
Kenneth Gayle received the title of Urban Soul Dancing with the Stars Male Champion for his standout performance. Erica Davis Rouse was named the Female Champion, while Martha Castex-Tatum was named the Overall Fundraising Champion after raising a remarkable $3,822—surpassing her goal and earning the admiration of the crowd. Together, they completed the trio of honorees who rose to the top during an evening of close scoring and powerful artistry.
The show ended with extended applause that filled the theater. Participants walked away with newfound confidence and meaningful connections. Audience members left inspired by the courage they witnessed, reminded once again that dance can unlock something in people that everyday life rarely gives them time to discover.
For Urban Souls Dance Company, the Golden Edition fulfilled exactly what Harrison Guy imagined years ago: a celebration of community, a tribute to artists and leaders willing to grow in public, and a reminder that Houston continues to move forward through creativity, generosity, and the belief that movement brings people together in unforgettable ways.
