Karilú Alarcón Forshee
Dance & Theatre, Out of School Arts, in school arts, & Wolf trap
(She/her/hers)

I am a Mexican immigrant interdisciplinary artist and teaching artist, raised in Ciudad Juárez. I am a Detroit based artist since 2011, a 2020 Kresge Arts fellow, and a 2019 Knight Arts Recipient. I find joy making theater and music. My artistic work is influenced by the entire Latin American Diaspora. I find profound inspiration in my roots and the kids I work with. My work strives to create environments that inspire and nurture human connection and self-worth. This being the path to a strong sense of identity that breeds cultural voice and presence.

Get to know Karilú!

Q: What is your go-to dance move?

A: Samba!

Q: What was the weirdest job you’ve ever had?

A: Salad Chef

Q: What is the funniest thing you’ve ever heard a young person say?

A:  “Can you come live with me in my house?”

Q: If you could be BFF's with any fictional character, who would it be and why?

A: Tin-Tan because he was a pro in Spanglish, improvisation and swing dancing. I am also very interested in the cultural and historical relevance of the pachucos. I would love to swing dance with Tin-Tan and have a deep conversation about the zoot suit and the Pachuco's style.

Q: What is the most memorable or most impactful art experience you’ve had as an adult?

A: Transforming the life of children through the arts. Guiding the youth I work with to embrace their story, has been the most moving experience in my adult years.