In the Spotlight: Caroline Forrest, RADiate Dance Artist

An interview with Caroline Forrest, RADiate Dance Artist at the Evelina Children’s Hospital.

Caroline ForrestWhat is your dance training and background?
My passion for dance began at the age of three when I began taking part in Disco Dance competitions and weekly ballet, tap, and modern classes. I went on to study and train at a performing arts school in Sussex, then completed a Dance Theatre Degree at Trinity Laban Conservatoire in 2010.

Which RADiate setting/s do you teach at?
I teach at the Evelina Children’s Hospital which is part of Guy’s & St. Thomas’ hospital. I run one to one sessions with children on the wards as well as group sessions inside the school itself.

What is the best thing about the RADiate project?
The support from the RADiate team is brilliant, regular training sessions throughout the year are invaluable. I love the opportunities it has provided and one of my most loved and rewarding projects is through this programme. The Evelina Hospital is run by an incredible school team and every session is supported by them, with the staff understanding the importance and benefits of the creative arts. Because of the nature of the setting, most of the time I’m unaware who I will meet that day until the moment I meet them on the ward, which is something I love, it provides a completely natural, intuitive response for the activity, and what can be created in that moment between myself and the child is so special.

What new hobby did you start during lockdown?
I managed to grow a lot of plants for the first time! I have moved now, but they were all in pots on our flat balcony, I added up 37 pots by the end which was impressive, (for me, not my partner). I was amazed that you can grow so much in such a small space – and veg!

What is your favourite thing to do to relax?
I love Yoga and going for long walks to relax and feel calm.

A fun fact about you:
I played Sleeping Beauty in Disneyland and performed as a dancer in the parades, a very surreal job but I loved living in Paris for eight months!