Chris Simion-Mercurian is one of Romania’s most acclaimed theatre directors, writers, and cultural entrepreneurs, recognized for her distinctive artistic vision and contribution to independent theatre over the past 25 years.
A graduate of the National University of Theatre and Film “I.L. Caragiale” in Bucharest, she holds degrees in Theatre Studies and Theatre Directing, alongside a PhD in Theatre with summa cum laude distinction. She is the founder of the internationally acclaimed UNDERCLOUD Festival, one of Romania’s pioneering independent theatre platforms, now in its 18th edition.
As a director, Chris has signed more than 40 theatre productions across major institutions and independent stages, including productions at the National Theatre Bucharest, Bulandra Theatre, ARCUB, the State Jewish Theatre, Metropolis Theatre, and Comedy Theatre. Her work has been presented in over 20 countries and at more than 30 international festivals.
In 2016, she started the Grivița 53 project — the first theatre to be built collectively in Romania and the country’s first privately built theatre in over 80 years — a landmark cultural initiative recognized internationally for its innovation and sustainability. For this project, she received distinctions from the Presidency of Romania and the Royal House of Romania, alongside awards for cultural entrepreneurship and artistic achievement. In December 2025, the theatre was completed and officially launched with the show “5+3=9”.
Chris is also an accomplished author, having published 11 books, several of which became bestsellers. A member of the Romanian Writers’ Union since 2009, she published her first book at the age of 16.
Her work has been recognised with numerous distinctions, including the Aspen Award, Forbes Romania Award for theatrical activity, and Woman of the Year, cementing her reputation as one of Romania’s most influential cultural voices.