Dramas
Chandler Carter’s staged works have been variously described as a “compelling musical recounting” (Newsday); as conveying “an inborn feeling for the Southern setting, confidently employing elements of jazz, blues and gospel hymns” (Raleigh News and Observer); and “a strangely and powerfully moving drama” (Classical Voice).
This Little Light of Mine
Fannie Lou Hamer
(2021)
the story of civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer
four parts, 80’
Santa Fe Opera premiered This Little Light of Mine on October 28, 2022
See the trailer. Read the review in Broadway World.
Is This America?
(2020)
the legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer for Black Lives Matter
adapted from This Little Light of Mine
three scenes, 35’
Florida International University School of Music presented the staged premiere at the North Beach Bandshell in Miami on February 27, 2021.
The Whole World
how we changed the way we look at ourselves
eight to nine scenes, ca. 90’
(in development)
Bobby
Robert F. Kennedy
based on the life of Robert Francis Kennedy
three acts, ca. 2 hr. 15’
(in progress)
The Center for Contemporary Opera showcased Bobby at Symphony Space in New York City, May 17, 2015.
Mercury Falling
Mercury in repose
(2009)
monodrama based on the death of French sculptor Jean-Louis Brian
one act, 45’
Long Leaf Opera premiered Mercury Falling at the Stewart Theater in Raleigh, North Carolina in June 2009.
(2005)
based on the novel by Lillian Smith
two acts, 2 hr. 20’
Long Leaf Opera premiered Strange Fruit at Memorial Hall in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in June, 2007.
(2004)
based on the conversation piece by Gerhard Rühm
18’
Nelson Mandela
(1995; revised 2001)
based on the life of Nelson Mandela
two parts, 1 hr. 50’
No Easy Walk to Freedom premiered at the Riverside Church in New York City on October 12, 2001.