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ZAK BARNETT STUDIOS PRESENTS
SCREEN ACTOR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
AN ACCELERATED TRANSITION INTO FILM & TELEVISION
Program Description:

Akin to an accelerated 1-year MFA, but designed with flexibility for the working actor, this program prepares actors for the real world. There is an emphasis on the ZBS Whole Self Approach, as well as an attention to self-tape and Zoom audition, across genre, network, and role designation (Co-Star, Guest, Recurring, and Series Regular). Additionally, the program focuses on the actor as both creator and entrepreneur–a simultaneous gift and necessity in today’s entertainment landscape. The program is hybrid (online/in-person) and we are accepting applications both locally and globally.

program includes:
  • 9 months (3 Days/Week) of Genre-Based Audition Technique Class focused on Guest Star & Series Regular roles, including attention to self-tape, virtual callback and testing.
  • 3 months (3 Days/Week) of In-Depth Focus on Creating Your Own Work and Entrepreneurship.
  • 1 Additional Craft Class/Week tailored to each actor’s needs.
  • $5000 in Coaching Credits for Audition and Individualized Study.
  • Exposure to Casting, Executives and Other Industry Leaders through regular showcases and networking events.
  • Yearlong Access to ZBS’ Personal Development Course for Actors, “The Art of the Breakout” allowing actors to stay grounded and focused.
  • Ongoing Artistic Feedback and Mentorship.
  • Valuable Q&As with Industry Professionals.
  • Career Counselors who were formerly Agents & Managers.
  • Access to ZBS Community composed of actors from all over the world committed to thriving in the industry & supporting one another.
program outcomes:

Actors graduate attuned to the needs of a rapidly changing industry feeling agency in both their craft and career. Upon completion they will demonstrate the skills and knowledge to compete at the highest levels of the acting industry as well as have the artistic clarity and organic confidence to create their own work.

Program Tuition:

$24,000 for the full 1-year program. (Payment plans available)

aPPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • 2 Contrasting Self-Tapes from Contemporary TV & Film. Each self-tape should be 2-4 minutes long.
  • A Letter of Recommendation from an Entertainment Industry Professional (Talent Agent, Manager, Casting Director,  Acting Teacher, or other Industry Professional who is familiar with your work).
  • A 1-page Letter of Intent describing your interest in the program and what you’d like to accomplish.
Application process:

OPTION 1: Email info@zakbarnett.com with the subject ‘Certificate Program Application’ and the above requirements before the application deadline.

OPTION 2: Alternatively, you can also submit your application with all the above documents through the form below. Email us at info@zakbarnett.com for any questions.

Applications to the Certificate Program are accepted on a rolling basis. They are highly competitive and based on current availability. We currently have a couple spots coming available. We encourage you to apply by following the steps below:
To apply or for any questions, click Here to email or call 323-746-5059
madelainepetsch_riverdale_testimonial
Madelaine Petsch
Riverdale, The Strangers part 1 and 2
Actor

I’ve worked with him for four years. He’s passionate about what he does, and it makes us passionate.  We’re a family. ZBS is a community…a second home

daniellemacdonald_testimonial_actingcoach
DANIELLE MACDONALD
Dumplin', Birdbox, The Tourist
Actor

Whenever I get a script I always ask myself, WWZD—What would Zak Do?

Kenny Ortega
Kenny Ortega
High School Musical, Julie and the Phantoms, Descendants
Emmy and DGA Winning Director and Choreographer

During the camera tests and throughout rehearsals and filming on my Netflix series, “Julie and the Phantoms”, Zak’s work with our young actors provided them with the tools that enabled them to accomplish outstanding work.  If I didn’t know better, I’d swear he was a magician

Barnet Bain
Barnet Bain
What Dreams May Come, and Best Selling Author of "The Book of Being and Doing"
Oscar and Emmy Nominated Filmmaker

Zak speaks the language of the soul and is able to stir his actors on the deepest levels of artistic and personal transformation.

Sara Isacson
Sara Isaacson
Chicago Med and Fire, Law and Order: The Menendez Murders, The Mentalist
Casting Director

His connection to his students is unlike anything I’ve seen…the work is incredibly brave

JD
Jonathan Daviss
Outer Banks, Do Revenge
Actor

Zak Barnett taught me to love my craft.  Before I came to the studio I loved acting and I knew it was all I wanted to do, but I didn’t know why.  I found myself in a place where I was giving good auditions, but I wasn’t feeling fulfilled.  Going through his classes allowed me to find my own wants and meld them into one.  I learned to love the art of acting and find joy in making something special, something only I could create.

Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth
Broadway Legend,
Tony & Emmy Winner

He’s made a lot of impact and a lot of change… I cannot recommend him enough!