Meet Kasmira Buchanan | Dancer, Choreographer, Magician’s Assistant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kasmira Buchanan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kasmira, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I am so very lucky that I have designed (with lot’s of support) a brand and career path that I absolutely adore. I am someone that can work hours on end, day and night, doing things I am truly passionate about…and yet will really drag my feet if I am uninterested in something. For me, this root of inspiration, passion, and connection is where my success lies. And what is interesting about that, is that over the years my passions may shift or grow. It’s been really important for me to create a brand that is all encompassing, that would give me space to expand and branch out if I were so inspired. I have never been one to pick a singular interest, and growing up that was a hard pill for me to swallow. I thought I was supposed to be devoted to one thing and master it. Now I use my multi-faceted interests to my advantage. It has allowed me to create a brand unique to me, meet a variety of amazing people, and feel alive and connected with (almost) every stop along the way. My life’s mission is to co-create a peace-filled world through creativity and connection. I try to lead with that when making decisions for my brand. It gives me a sense of purpose when I close my eyes at night.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a Dancer/Choreographer/Producer/Director/and Magician’s Assistant. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had personality traits and qualities that have set me up for this career (i.e. I could never sit still, I’ve always enjoyed telling people what to do, and I love magical secrets!). I have always been drawn to the unconventional path. While a lot of L.A. dancers built their careers by finding an agent and going to lots of auditions (a totally valid option), I have, for the most part, had a steady flow of work come my way through being my own agent. I try to lead with my heart, choosing projects that bring me joy, staying in touch with people that I feel connected to, and creating opportunities for myself when they don’t already exist. That is how my brand Planet Kasmira came to be. I couldn’t figure out a way to fit all of my interests into one box (and I don’t think anyone else knew what to do with me either), so I decided to create my own planet where I get to make the rules. I designed my website and logo (with help from “The Artist’s Way”) around Saturn, Disco, and Pastel colors. Saturn because my mom was one of the Rocket Scientists that worked on the Spacecraft Cassini that explored Saturn for 20 years. Disco Balls because I not only love the music, dancing, and culture of that era, but also how the Disco Ball reflects all the different facets of my career. And Pastel colors, because my inner child fills with joy when looking at them!

This career has brought me adventures beyond belief! It has allowed me to perform in thousands of shows, choreograph for award winning films and grand stage shows, and travel and tour the world. I am most proud of the amazing community I have cultivated around me. When I think back to the best moments in my career (and life for that matter) they all have had amazing people in it. And those relationships last longer than any music video, tour, or project ever could.

The biggest lesson I have learned is to follow what feels right for me, which hasn’t always been easy. There has been a lot of times where I’ve agonized over decisions and have been filled with feelings of unworthiness. Through lots of inner work, I am discovering who I am and what works for me. When I follow my bliss everyone wins! I would love any artist or creative out there to also give themselves permission to follow theirs- it’s. never too late.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Okay so I would definitely take them to all of the best vegan restaurants in the city: Sage Bistro, Suncafe, Gracias Madre, Crossroads, Sugar Taco, Cafe Gratitude,

We would drive through Topanga Canyon stop at the small boutique shops, have brunch at Inn of the 7th Ray and look through their bookshop, and then head to Malibu beach.

We would go to Huntington Gardens for tea time (they have a vegan menu!) and then walk around the gardens.

In Culver City we would visit the Jurassic Museum of Technology – my favorite unique museum.

Definitely catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl, and the Laugh Factory.

At night I would take them to the Magic Castle.

For dessert Salt n’ Straw and Donut Friend!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a shoutout to where it all started…my parents. My mom has been really vital in impacting my core beliefs: The world is friendly place, there is an abundance of opportunities for everyone, and following my bliss is one of the more important things I can do in this lifetime. She taught me to believe in the magic and beauty of this world- and that has helped me to always feel supported in everything I do.

My dad taught me a lot about work ethic. He modeled for me how to be a self-starter, a go-getter, and a person that succeeded at having many different interests. One of the things I love most, is that he values connection with his colleagues. He cherishes the relationship with his clients above all. I learned to appreciate connection and try to leave each person I interact with feeling heard and appreciated.

Most of all, my parents always have supported me, been my cheerleaders, and have grown with me.

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Website: www.planetkasmira.com

Instagram: @planetkasmira

Facebook: Kasmira Buchanan

Image Credits
Vincent Vallejo Denise Leitner Eric Anderson Snapping Dragon Kate Elliott