Christopher Chase Carter is a celebrated director and choreographer whose greatest strengths lie in his extensive experience across multiple disciplines and his talent for building lasting relationships with fellow theater artists and leaders. As the former Artistic Director of Mercury Theater Chicago and the Venus Cabaret Theater, Carter left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape through bold programming, groundbreaking productions and an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence.

During his tenure, Carter led Mercury Theater to unprecedented success, including a record-breaking 15 Jeff Award nominations in 2023 and 18 nominations in 2024. He earned dual Jeff Award nominations for directing Big River and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, underscoring his creative leadership and vision. Under his artistic direction, Mercury produced hits like Young Frankenstein, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill (starring Alexis J. Roston) and launched the regional premiere of Jersey Boys.

Carter was also known for championing new works and emerging talent. He nurtured the Chicago premiere of MotherFreakingHood and amplified voices from the drag and queer communities through programming such as Ginger Minj’s “The Broads’ Way”. In 2024, he hosted the Black Arts and Culture Awards at the world-renowned Black Ensemble Theater, where he also originated several shows, such as Reasons: A Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire and The Time Machine: A Tribute to the 80’s.

A Michigan native, Carter began his career directing and choreographing award-winning college and community theater productions. He earned a BA from Grand Valley State University on scholarship and trained at the prestigious Debbie Allen Dance Academy in Los Angeles. He also studied internationally at the Edna Manley School in Kingston, Jamaica. These experiences inspired him to establish the Christopher Carter Arts Scholarship, helping underprivileged artists access opportunities to develop their craft.

Throughout his time in Chicago, Carter choreographed Skates: A New Musical, directed the high school pilot production of The Scottsboro Boys with Musical Theatre International and Susan Stroman and staged a record-setting Legally Blonde at Northwestern University.

With 44 nominations from organizations including the Joseph Jefferson Awards, Black Theater Alliance Awards, BroadwayWorld and more, Carter has received numerous accolades, including five Jeff Awards (including Best Musical), two BTAA Awards (including Best Choreography), one BroadwayWorld Award and four Grand Awards (including Best Director).

Christopher Chase Carter continues to be a visionary in the performing arts, dedicated to the evolution of theater and the transformative power of storytelling on stage.