‘DWTS’ Fan Favorites Are Teaming Up for Something Big

Some of the “Dancing with the Stars” biggest names are hitting the road together for a brand-new dance experience. Derek Hough, Julianne Hough, Jenna Johnson, and Val Chmerkovskiy are teaming up as lead creatives behind “Ovation”, an upcoming nationwide tour that blends live performance, competition, and training for dancers of all levels.

Produced by DanceOne, Ovation is described as a multi-city dance tour and convention that brings together ballroom-Latin expertise and commercial dance styles under one roof. The tour officially kicks off in December 2025 and will travel to major U.S. cities through June 2026, including Chicago, Phoenix, Ft. Lauderdale, Anaheim, Atlantic City, Dallas, Salt Lake City, and San Diego, according to the Ovation Dance Tour.

In an early Instagram teaser featuring the “DWTS” pros, the creators captioned that “THIS is Ovation…and it’s changing the game. #OvationDance #DanceOne” positioning it as an immersive, all-in-one dance experience. Another promotional content also shows digital billboards featuring the cast in multiple cities, building anticipation for what’s to come.

Derek, Julianne, Jenna, and Val Take the Lead

Each of the four “DWTS” stars is taking on a specific leadership role behind the scenes of the tour.

Derek Hough serves as Tour Director, guiding the overall creative direction of Ovation. As a six-time “Dancing with the Stars” champion, Emmy-winning choreographer, and current judge on the series, Hough brings years of live performance and stage production expertise to the project.

His sister, Julianne Hough, also joins as a Tour Director. Known for her work as a dancer, singer, and actress, she adds another layer of star power and performance credibility. Together, the Hough siblings help anchor the tour’s vision and execution.

Meanwhile, Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy are named Program Directors. Both longtime “DWTS” pros, Johnson and Chmerkovskiy are responsible for designing the tour’s training curriculum and dance education structure. The program includes a mix of ballroom, contemporary, and commercial dance taught by an expanded lineup of elite instructors and choreographers.

In addition to the four lead pros, Talia Favia joins as Artistic Director, helping shape the tour’s choreography and on-stage storytelling.

Performances, Training, and Fan Excitement Build Ahead of the Tour

The Ovation tour promises a range of programming, including live performances from the featured dancers, intensive classes and workshops, and an official competition track. Aspiring dancers will have the chance to train alongside some of the most recognizable names in dance, while also participating in Q&As, feedback sessions, and professional networking opportunities.

In a post on Instagram, Derek Hough wrote, “Can’t wait to see everyone in person 🙌,” showing his enthusiasm for connecting with dancers across the country. Julianne Hough added on another post, “We’re coming for ya 🔥,” as fan excitement continued to grow.

Instagram reels teasing the tour have already gone viral within the dance community. “Super excited for this! You have no idea!” one fan commented. Another wrote, “Learning from the greatest in the game! 😍”