Chris Mercado

by | Jan 31, 2019

CHRIS MERCADO

HIP HOP & MUSICAL THEATER INSTRUCTOR + TEAM MANAGEMENT

EXPERT IN: MUSICAL THEATER, HIP HOP, CHOREOGRAPHY, COMPETITION PERFORMANCE TEAM MANAGEMENT
Hometown: born in Honolulu, HI, raised in Silverdale, WA
Most Memorable Gig: I’ve had so many amazing memories, but having to learn a full show in a week and a half through a script, a video, and music tracks before flying out for a filler tour contract really pushed me as a performer. Once I landed, I went straight to the theater to get blocked on stage and then performed the very next day. Total whirlwind, but a lot of fun especially pushing me to learn an entire show while creating character relationships before even meeting the rest of the cast.
Career Highlights: Through Disney I was able to be a part of an amazing legacy. From performing with guest celebrities to performing for some amazing crowds. Being a part of the Disney Company for a little under 10 years (both coasts and on tour) allowed me to learn from some of the most creative choreographers and directors while performing amongst some of the most talented performers. So many great memories and lifelong relationships formed during my time with the mouse.
My Journey to Teaching: I have been working with youth since I was a teenager. I started mentoring when I was about 14. Then randomly got into creating, teaching and performing choreography for different school events which later lead me to becoming a Cheerleader at WSU (GO COUGS!!!) and then eventually performing at the Disney Company. All the while I was always involved with working and teaching kids on the side until I realized teaching is where I belong. It’s been great witnessing past and present students accomplish so much and make a career out of their passion for the arts.
My Mission: It has always been my mission to create a positive atmosphere where anyone and everyone can express themselves with absolutely no judgement. I created something to really push my vision when living in California, the I.M.P. Project which stands for “INSPIRE and MOTIVATE others through your PASSION”! I hope to continue to inspire all those around me to live their truths while harnessing their craft, growing as a performer, and most importantly being a kind human being. And what better to do that than here at Big Star Performing Arts Studio.