Today we’d like to introduce you to Ian Coulter-Buford.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
From a young age, Ian Coulter-Buford’s destiny was clear. At the tender age of 3, his grandma once told him that he confidently declared to the whole family, “I AM A STAR!” Ever since his first solo performance at his hometown church, he felt a deep calling within him. Despite being somewhat confident about the specific role he wanted to play in the entertainment world, he always harbored a burning desire to be a performer. The only thing he knew for sure was his undying love for music. Born in St. Louis and based in New York City, Ian Coulter-Buford, known musically as PALAWN, is an award-winning multi-hyphenate entertainer, choreographer, creative director, recording artist, and instructor. Noted as one of “St. Louis Americans People on The Move,” Ian has received great acclaim for his nuanced performances, work ethic, showmanship, and infectious smile. In the early 2000s, Ian became a part of The MUNY Youth program, touring throughout the St. Louis Metro area, where he nurtured his love for storytelling, musicality, and dance. He continued his studies at Illinois Wesleyan University, earning a B.F.A. in Music Theatre. Immediately after, he moved to New York City, where he has since performed and created pieces worldwide. Whether choreographing in London, singing original music for South African delegates in Johannesburg, or conducting new works in northern Italy, Ian has been unstoppable, attributing his success to his unwavering faith, loving family, supportive friends, and dedicated team. Ian is a stage performer, choreographer, and recording artist under the moniker PALAWN. Since 2014, he has been recording and songwriting, releasing his debut single, “Juxtapose,” in early 2022 and, most recently, his third single, “Weekend (Let’s Party).” PALAWN’s music is a mix of Electronic, R&B, and Urban pop from a queer perspective. All PALAWN music can be found on all major streaming platforms, released under his music label, ICB Creative Co. He has more music in the pipeline for the upcoming year. With an impressive list of accomplishments, Ian Coulter-Buford is currently touring North America as Hermes understudy and Swing in the 8-time TONY® and Grammy Award-winning musical HADESTOWN. Even with his busy schedule, Ian Coulter-Buford remains committed to giving back to his local community, offering instruction and guidance when he returns to St. Louis. “Countless people supported my journey, so it’s only right to do the same.”
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There have been many setbacks; while we know the entertainment industry is inconsistent, the biggest challenge was finding my way during the COVID-19 lockdown. Not having work wasn’t necessarily hard; it was not seeing what the future held. I’m SO grateful for my family and friends. Entertainment foundations have helped me find other ways to work in the entertainment industry to gain stability during and after. As well as dealing with my relationship with money and making countless mistakes to cultivate a mindset of financial stability that’s half the battle.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Certainly, I’m a versatile creative professional specializing in Choreography, Creative Direction, Songwriting, Masterclasses, and Instruction in the performing arts. I founded ICB Creative Co. in 2012 now based in New York City. From wedding reception choreography and movement for public speakers, to teaching aspiring performers and choreographing productions, I offer a range of services that also include recording music and conducting master classes.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
In my journey over two decades, I’ve found two essential principles that continue to hold for me. First and foremost, the golden rule is: Be kind. Secondly, it’s crucial to understand the intricacies of your field. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed numerous opportunities emerge from demonstrating respect for all facets of a production. Every person involved has a unique role, and acknowledging this collaborative effort is vital. Being pleasant and attuned to the process is a cornerstone of success.
Moreover, comprehending the business aspect is equally significant. We are indeed running a business. This entails taking care of your physical and mental well-being, self-investment, effective networking, adept budgeting, and occasionally embracing opportunities that might not be your first choice but can enrich your knowledge for future, more significant prospects. These lessons have proven invaluable to me over the years.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.iancoulterbuford.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/iancoulterbuford
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/iancbuford
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/iancouterbufor
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt_5S6prvRYf7uyfOM7J7jg
- SoundCloud: www.soundcloud.com/iampalawn
- Other: www.reverbnation.com/iampalawn
Image Credits
(Light Blue Background Photo) Corriene Lou Photography for The Ensemblist (NYC) (Yellow Background for PALAWN) Anthony Buford (Chicago) (Red Background for PALAWN) Lexi Webster (NYC) (Hadestown Red Carpet) Brian Feinzimer for Capture Imaging (Los Angeles) (Mountain Background) Dillon Goodall (Lifting girl) Ian with Summerisa Stevens in rehearsal for SMOKEY JOE’S CAFE (St. Louis Black Rep, THE WIZ; Sarah Stephens as Dorothy in White Dress) (Teaching Children; Gracefully Yours Dance Academy Collinsville, IL)
