Carolyn Forsyth – Executive Director and Joint CEO

Carolyn works alongside Artistic Director and CEO, Michael Buffong. Carolyn’s 17 year track record of success demonstrates her dynamism as a detail focused producer and arts manager gained in senior roles within theatre, young people’s work, outdoor site-specific shows, UK and International touring and festivals. Carolyn has co-produced with leading regional venues and independent production companies and led UK and international presentations from Dance Umbrella, Lokal, Campo, Spring, and Spieltart festivals.

Carolyn’s producing highlights include: site specific pieces Fly By Night by Duke Riley; dance extravaganza SESSION by Still House, Empire Sounds and Steppaz; MINEFIELD by Lola Arias (UK tour); Velveteen Rabbit by Purni Morell (which made its New York and Barcelona debut in 2016); Something Very Far Away by Mark Arends and Matthew Robbins in 2014 which won the Off West End Award for Best Production for Young People and toured to Singapore and Melbourne Festivals.

In 2005 Carolyn was part of the leadership team, responsible for launching the first purpose built children’s theatre (Unicorn Theatre) building in the UK. Under her tenure the theatre was nominated for the most welcoming theatre award. Carolyn was also recognised by Action for Children Arts for her contribution to the Theatre for Young Audiences sector in the UK.

During her time as producer for The Unicorn (2011-2017); they won nine awards and have been nominated for a further 18 awards since 2012. Awards include the Peter Brook Award in 2014, five Off West End Production awards for shows for young people, a Writers Guild Award in 2014, a TMA UK award in 2013 and a Fringe First in 2012.

Carolyn has managed high profile events such as Christmas Cabaret fundraiser for WAC Arts 40th Birthday, TED Salon London and Beautiful Octopus Club.

Carolyn has served on various boards and is currently on the Steering group for Diverse Actions and Second Hand Dance Company. Recently Carolyn worked with Strike A Light on their socially-distanced programme in Gloucester, using co-creating models, where she supported and mentored local artists and community producers making projects with and by the local community.