own your stage
What does it mean?
In a world that moves faster than we can catch our breath, many of us are left with untold stories, voices unheard, and potential unseen.
We believe that every child, teenager, or adult deserves the tools to be in control of their body, expressions, and feelings.
Not everyone is given the chance to harness the power within, the power to express, to connect, to truly own their stage in life. We are here to change that.
Academy founders
Rana, graduate of LAU (Class of 2000), holds a BA with honors in Communication Arts, specializing in theatre. Her early career saw her on stage and screen, acting in several series and directing five plays, before her passion for creativity led her to the dynamic world of advertising in 2007. After 11 years in Beirut agencies and 7 years in Dubai, Rana has become a leader in the industry, earning over 70 prestigious awards, including several Cannes Lions and New York Festival accolades. As an expert in copywriting, storytelling, and public speaking, she has shared her insights and expertise through numerous workshops and talks, inspiring audiences and shaping the next generation of creative talent.
From an early age, Lama was immersed in the world of theater and television, laying the foundation for a lifelong career in the performing arts. After earning a degree in Political Science from the American University of Beirut, she pursued her passion for drama at the University of California, Irvine. Her career includes acting in television series, most notably Ahla Biout Ras Beirut, and working as an assistant director on various productions. Lama also brings over 15 years of experience in advertising as an English copywriter, refining her skills in communication and creativity. In addition to her professional work in both fields, Lama has taught drama at Brumana High School, specializing in IB and A Level Drama, for over a decade, and has led various drama courses in other educational settings. Drawing on her background in both creative industries and education, she will be offering a diverse range of workshops designed to inspire and foster creative growth in both teens and adults.
Ziad M. Najjar is a film and stage producer, writer, director, and lead actor with a long-standing presence in the Lebanese theater and film industry. He holds a Masters degree in cinema from ALBA 2006. He has played prominent roles in numerous TV series, films, and plays, demonstrating his versatile talent and unwavering dedication to the arts. Since 2010, Ziad has been teaching at universities, guiding students in performing arts and storytelling.
Beyond his work in Lebanon, Ziad owned a film production company in Saudi Arabia, where he contributed to various corporate projects, further broadening his influence in the region’s creative and media industries. His extensive experience across production, performance, and education has established him as a well-rounded and influential figure in the performing arts.