Department of Theatre and Dance
Our People
Eduard Forehand
Title: | Instructor, Dance |
Department of Theatre and Dance | |
Email: | EDUARD@mailbox.sc.edu |
Phone: | 803-576-7910 |
Office: | Band Dance Facility 006 |
Eddie was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and had his primary dance training with Thomas Armour Youth Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and Nutmeg Conservatory as well as additional training with Houston Ballet and North Carolina School for the Arts. He went on to an 18-year professional career with Richmond Ballet (1998-2000), Charleston Ballet Theatre (2000 - 2003), Augusta Ballet (2003 - 2005), Dayton Ballet (2005 - 2009), and Louisville Ballet (2009 - 2016). During this time, Eddie had the opportunity to work with many notable choreographers, coaches, directors, and teachers as well as wonderful dancers that have all had an impact on the way he sees and teaches dance.
After retiring from the stage, Eddie accepted a fellowship at the University of Iowa where he had the opportunity to reframe the way he teaches and choreographs. While there, he was able to build upon principles of modern dance and begin to practically apply them to ballet. Eddie taught ballet to majors and non-majors and had the chance to choreograph multiple works on the students. He also acted as the rehearsal director for guest choreographer, Shannon Alvis. Eddie was then invited to join Cornell College as Artist in Residence where he experimented with many genres including jazz, musical theatre, modern, and ballet. He continued his choreography investigations while there, including a collaboration that resulted in his first dance film entitled “Black Valentine” which explored the themes of painter Jack Vettriano.
Eddie is interested in the application of dynamic alignment and kinesthetic awareness
of the body as a way to assist in injury prevention. He has a desire to bring about
a focus on individuality in dancing and help the student with tools on how to take
responsibility for their own learning in an inclusive and positive environment. He
is also a certified ABT curriculum instructor for levels pre-primary through level
5.