ABOUT ME.
Darnell was born and raised in New Iberia, LA. He studied Musical Theatre at the University of Central Oklahoma.
During his time at UCO, he performed the roles of Daddy Brubeck in Sweet Charity (under the direction of Brian Marcum of MT Wichita and Broadway’s Eloise Kropp), the Narrator in the Apple Tree, Judah in the 2020 production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolored Dream Coat, and understudied the role of Andre in Broadway Tonight’s production of Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Directed by Erin Clemons).
In addition to his featured roles at UCO, Darnell also performed as a tribe member in Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre’s 60th-anniversary production of Hair, covered the role of Pythio in Lyric Theater of Oklahoma’s production of Head Over Heels and was a seasonal performer of both Northern State University’s River City Players and Six Flags: Most Wonderful Time of Year.
When he’s not auditioning or performing he is usually watching horror movies, taking impulsive trips across the country or dancing with his friends.
Within the last two years, Darnell has also worked as a choreographer for University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond Public Schools, and the Edmond Fine Arts Institute.
Darnell made his choreographic debut with UCO Broadway Tonight’s production of Ain’t Misbehavin’. The production made history as it was Central’s first production with an All-Black cast. Ain’t Misbehavin’ was directed by Broadway’s Hamilton Erin Clemons. Darnell has since returned to his alma mater to choreograph musicals and showcases.
Darnell has also spent the past year as a resident choreographer for Edmond Memorial High School’s treble showchoir, Take Note. Darnell finished his residency with Take Note winning Best Women’s Show Choir at the Duncan Show Choir Contest.
Other Choreography Credits include: Sequoyah Middle School Show Choir (2023, 1st Place). Choctaw High School’s Music Theatre Showcase. University of Central Oklahoma’s Sister Act (2022) and Freshmen Showcase (2021). Edmond Fine Arts Institute’s Thoroughly Modern Millie (2021), Seussical (2021), and Hairspray (2020).