About Zak Sandler

Zak Sandler is a neurodivergent composer, lyricist, and performer specializing in musical theater and pop songs. His solo musical about his bipolar, "Inside My Head", was developed at the Kennedy Center and performed at the Millennium Stage with Lachi! His other songs have been performed Off-Broadway, including at The Public Theater, and at Lincoln Center. He is also a member of the BMI Writer's Workshop, and was a composer at the Johnny Mercer Songwriter's Project.

Zak is also leaning into his pop music writing career, focusing on songs about unity, and is in the process of pitching these songs to celebrity artists.

As a performer, Zak has played piano on Broadway for "Wicked", "Mean Girls", "Motown", and "The Color Purple". He stars in his own musical, "Inside My Head", and played the Pianosaurus off-Broadway in "Triassic Parq", a parody of "Jurassic Park" told from the perspective of the dinosaurs.

As a fun aside, Zak is also a sought-after public speaker. His TED Talk, “Can Mental ‘Disorder’ Be a Superpower?” has over 100,000 views. He speaks at conferences around the country about the creativity linked to bipolar and other mental health conditions, and has been featured in "Psychiatric News". His podcast, "Insanely Talented", explores the link between neurodivergence and creativity. Look for it wherever you get your podcasts!

Recognition and Awards