Cornell welcomes new dance artist in residence

Cornell College’s stages will be filled with a variety of new dances and choreography as the college welcomes Eddie Forehand as the Department of Theatre and Dance’s new musical theatre dance artist in residence.

He’ll start teaching in the fall and is eager to share his love for dance with anyone who wants to learn. His classes, which will focus on jazz, ballet, modern, choreography, improvisation, movement games, and performance, will cater to students on all levels, from beginner to advanced. Forehand’s courses will support the growing bachelor of fine arts in musical theatre program as well as the dance minor.

“I am looking forward to working on and expanding my expertise in movement and choreography and to watch it come to life on stage,” Forehand said. “I’m excited to be able to work with the students and see what views and skills they bring to the work, as well as how all of us can be positively influenced by each other.”

Forehand grew up in Miami, Florida, where he concentrated his studies on ballet. After high school, he attended a conservatory, and one year later, landed his first dance job with Richmond Ballet. From there he was part of four other dance companies and retired from the professional world of dance in 2016. He went on to receive his M.F.A in Dance at the University of Iowa.

Through all of his experiences, Forehand brings a wealth of knowledge to the college. Students will learn complex choreography and how to express emotions through dance. 

“I want them to be able to relate what we do in the studio to other aspects of their life, as well as expand their work ethic,” Forehand said. “I want to offer a sense of freedom and release through physical challenges and performance opportunities.”

Under Forehand’s guidance, students will work to fulfill their personal goals and learn to see dance as an art that will be interpreted by each individual differently.

“Dance can be social reflection, inner reflection, a call to arms, and a wonderful fantasy land,” Forehand said. “It’s limitless in what you may convey and do, and there is no wrong way for personal expression.”

The new musical theatre dance artist in residence says the block plan will give him more time to complete in-depth work with the students and more thoroughly focus on perfecting techniques and skills, which will extend far beyond the performance spaces. 

“Skills learned in dance can also apply to other situations and work environments through enhanced personal communication,” Forehand said. “Work ethic is also more focused as well as creativity which can help with problem-solving. Better overall health and confidence is achieved through physical activity and a better grasp of complex learning situations is achieved because of the pressure of learning choreography and daily technique class.”

Find out more about Cornell College’s Department of Theatre and Dance on the website.