Meet Paulette Ivory | Artist and Performing Arts Coach.

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

Hi Paulette, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
So I started ‘The Ivory Performing Arts Program’ right before the Pandemic hit in 2020. And who would have know that it came at a time that my services would be desired the most. I have always wanted to pass on my skills, my training, my knowledge, tips and all the little inside things I do to maintain my skills at the highest level. And I wanted to create a class that I would take. That I wished was available to me when I was starting out. To be taught by someone who has the credits that I have, instills trust in the student. And I always say to them “Anything I have accomplished, you can do too and much more.”

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.
So I am a Singer/Actor who got my big break as the original Nala in The Lion King UK and I then went on to be cast in title role of Aida in DISNEY/Elton John’s AIDA for which I was nominated for a Helen Hayes Award at the Kennedy Center for Best Lead actress. Disney then gave me my green card, so naturally I moved to Los Angeles, which was daunting at first. It goes in waves here for sure. I have had many guest spots on TV, sung with orchestras and even had a run on Broadway in Will Smith and Jay Z’s musical FELA as the female lead, which was amazing! And I, like many artists, am a workaholic, so when things are on the slower side, or you get a few ‘no’s’ in a row, you have to really dig deep and find other things that you love, that fill you up or stretch you in some way yet still be ready for the “yes” that is coming not long after. Feed your soul, as it is all connected to anything you take on. I realized that I can pursue my dreams AND help others at the same time. I am currently co producing a show about a well know Icon, that I will also star in. Will share more on that when I can. 😉

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
So I actually have a friend coming to LA this spring & I cannot wait to show her around. I have such fond memories of The Grove, so that would be my first stop. It just reminds me of a mini Disney Boardwalk. haha! 🙂 I would go for Rooftop for drinks at Mama Shelter’s Hollywood. Especially when they have a DJ playing! So fun. A trip the Getty Villa is a must. Just serene, majestic and full of history. And Brunch at the Castaways in Burbank is a definite, as they have the most stunning view of LA from up there. And another must is ‘The Sunset’ restaurant in Malibu where you literally step out onto sand after you’ve eaten. Love it there! Would hit Universal Studios, go to the Hollywood Bowl if in Season and also take her to my favorite Sound bath in Agoura Hills which is sometimes inside of a TIPI.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So the book that kept me on track when starting my business was Florence Scovel Shinn’s ‘The game of life and how to play it’. I have started mentioning her on social media as well as it’s all about the power of your words & how they are always creating your reality. How seeing the vision for your business before you even start, fully is essential. Having a clear why and desire, ensure it will come into fruition and bring success. And of course just having joy for getting to do what you love every day. And I always give credit to my mum Beverley who created  a very strong, independent woman who can be pretty fearless at times. 🙂

Website: https://ivoryperformingartsprogram.com/ www.Pauletteivory.com

Instagram: @Pauletteivory

Twitter: @Pauletteivory

Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/Pauletteivory

Image Cr9edits
Photography by Tony Bee Photography. (White dress & grey top pics)