The Story Behind CORTA
Corta Ishman, professionally known as CORTA, is an award-winning multidisciplinary storyteller whose work spans film, theatre, publishing, digital media and creative development.
Originally from Selma, Alabama, and now based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, Corta has spent more than a decade building an independent creative career centered around one thing: telling stories his way.
Before there was a production company, theatre company, film credit, stage production or award, there was simply a desire to create. Instead of waiting for someone else to approve the idea, finance the project or create the opportunity, he began building those opportunities himself.
The Storyteller
Corta’s work often explores the complicated spaces between right and wrong: relationships, family, betrayal, sexuality, trauma, secrets, accountability, love and forgiveness.
His stories center on flawed characters facing uncomfortable decisions. Drama may become comedy. Comedy may become heartbreak. And just when an audience believes it understands where a story is going, the story may take another turn.
Beyond One Medium
Corta has never believed a storyteller should be limited by format. His creative work spans feature and short films, original stage plays, published stories, digital media and creative development for emerging writers.
Behind the Work
Independent production has required Corta to understand far more than writing and directing. Throughout his career, he has worked across writing, directing, producing, casting, sound, visual development, marketing, production planning and creative direction.
That experience shapes the way he approaches every story: not only what happens on the page, but how it looks, sounds, performs and ultimately reaches an audience.
I Am Corta Entertainment
Corta is the founder and creative force behind I Am Corta Entertainment, an independent entertainment company created to develop original projects across stage, screen, publishing and digital media.
Black Canvas Theatre Company
As his work in live theatre continued to expand, Corta created Black Canvas Theatre Company, the theatrical extension of I Am Corta Entertainment and a dedicated home for original stage productions.
The Next Chapter
Corta’s career continues to evolve beyond any single title. Each title is another way to tell a story, build an opportunity and create something that did not exist before.
Create boldly. Tell authentic stories. Build opportunities. Create your own lane.
