ABOUT OUR TEAM
We are a team of Musical Theatre and acting enthusiasts who love to perform, teach, and inspire others to uninhibitedly love to perform! Our ultimate goal is to generate a love for the performing arts and help develop fearless performers who will, in turn, create amazing performances that we can watch and support for years to come!
THE TEAM
Meet the talent behind BORN TO PERFORM STUDIO!
BRENT RAMIREZ
Owner/Executive Director
Vocal Coach | Performance Coach
Brent Ramirez is not just a coach; he is a catalyst for transformation in the performing arts. With over a decade of experience in nurturing talent, Brent has cultivated a teaching style that is as effective as it is enjoyable. His ability to recognize and enhance the best qualities in each individual has led his students not only to embrace singing as a cherished hobby but also to shine brightly on prestigious platforms, ranging from local musicals to eminent Universities like NYU, and even on renowned screens of Nickelodeon, Netflix, and Disney.
Brent's journey into the arts began in high school when a Theatre Summer Camp unveiled his natural leadership and an innate ability to bring out the best in everyone around him. From the role of John Proctor in "The Crucible" to studying Theatre Arts at Moorpark College and California Lutheran University, where he graduated with honors, Brent's formative years were steeped in the discipline and creativity of the stage. His performances, notably as Claudio in "Much Ado About Nothing," Paris in "Romeo and Juliet," and the critically acclaimed lead role of Chad in "All Shook Up," have garnered numerous accolades, echoing his dedication to the craft.
In his professional stride, Brent holds esteemed positions as Theatre Faculty at Moorpark College and Professor of Musical Theatre at California Lutheran University. His directorial and production prowess is not confined to Born to Perform Studio alone; it resonates through Universities, Colleges, and local elementary schools, where his productions have become synonymous with quality and inspiration.
What truly sets Brent apart is his unique, fun, and approachable teaching methodology. He believes that the performing arts are not just about precision but also about freedom and confidence. Known for transforming the shyest of kids into confident individuals, both on and off the stage, Brent's approach is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of the arts.
At the helm of Born to Perform Studio, Brent's leadership is defined by his ability to bring together an exceptional team of teaching artists, each contributing their unique expertise and creativity to the studio's mission.
Brent's expertise is not just rooted in experience but also in his continuous pursuit of learning. Having studied with top industry coaches like Julia Gregory, Joshua Finkle, and Roger Love, Brent brings a wealth of knowledge and a rich blend of techniques to his students. His commitment to creating a fun, energetic, and impactful learning environment makes Born to Perform Studio not just a place to learn but a space to thrive.
RYAN LEFTON
Co-Owner | Director | Acting Instructor | Performance Coach
Ryan Lefton is not only the Co-Owner and Director of Born to Perform Studio but also a dynamic force in the realm of performing arts, with a distinguished career marked by creativity, collaboration, and a profound dedication to the arts. Ryan's partnership with Brent Ramirez, a friendship and professional collaboration that blossomed during their time together at Moorpark College, has solidified into a powerhouse duo at the helm of Born to Perform Studio.
Ryan's journey in the arts is nothing short of inspirational
A California-based actor living and working in the Los Angeles area, Ryan Lefton holds a B.F.A. in Drama: Acting from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he trained at both Playwrights Horizons Theatre School and Stonestreet Studios. During his time there, he studied with exceptional mentors including Michael Potts (True Detective, The Book of Mormon), Michal Zecher (CBS Casting), and Ted Sluberski (NY Acting Coach & Casting Director).
Since returning to L.A., Ryan has steadily built a vibrant on-screen career — with credits including Lifetime, PBS, and TV One’s Will to Love opposite Marques Houston and Keshia Knight Pulliam, as well as numerous independent and streaming productions. His digital presence has also grown through his BuzzFeed-featured videos, which have collectively surpassed over one million streams.
As a voice-over artist, Ryan has voiced characters in over 100 international dubbing projects and multiple animated series, including the Netflix original Legend Quest: Masters of Myth and the acclaimed animated series Society of Virtue. His diverse work behind the mic has made him a go-to performer for animation, dubbing, and character-driven projects across platforms.
On stage, Ryan continues to bring his energy and passion to live theatre. He earned a StageSceneLA “Scenie” Award for Star-Making Performance as Boy/Peter in Peter and the Starcatcher, and has appeared in numerous Southern California productions, delighting audiences with his versatility, humor, and heart.
At Born to Perform Studio, Ryan's leadership is characterized by his commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists. His approach is deeply rooted in collaboration and respect, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to explore, create, and develop their artistic voices. As a faculty member at Moorpark College, Ryan continues to influence and inspire, shaping the future of the arts through his dedicated mentorship and innovative teaching methodologies.
LEXI LEFTON
Studio Manager | Director | Pre-K Instructor
Lexi Chase is the heartbeat of Born to Perform Studio, embodying the role of Studio Manager with unparalleled dedication, warmth, and expertise. Her journey with the studio is a testament to her unwavering passion for the performing arts and her deep-rooted connection with its community. Having transitioned from a student under Brent Ramirez's mentorship to a cornerstone of the studio's operational success, Lexi's decade-long association reflects not just her commitment but also her evolution alongside the studio.
From the tender age of three, Lexi's life has been a dance with the arts. Her journey began with dance, blossomed through theatre in her elementary years, and continued to flourish with rigorous acting training at a conservatory in Santa Monica. Lexi's versatility shines through her impressive repertoire of performances on stage, in TV shows, films, and a competition show choir, showcasing her multifaceted talent and dedication to her craft.
Lexi's transition to the administrative and managerial realms of performing arts was marked by her natural leadership, organizational skills, and an innate understanding of the studio's heartbeat. Working alongside Brent Ramirez, she has been instrumental in orchestrating the seamless execution of administrative tasks, performance classes, and a plethora of studio productions and camps. Her roles have been as dynamic as her personality, ranging from Stage Manager and Assistant Musical Director to Assistant Director and even Director, leaving her unique imprint on productions such as Annie Jr, Shrek the Musical Jr, Seussical the Musical Jr, High School Musical, and many more.
Perhaps Lexi's most profound contribution lies in her heartfelt connection with each student and her profound love for the studio. Her nurturing presence and genuine care for the studio's offerings create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired. Her ability to choreograph not just performances but also the intricate dance of studio operations makes her an invaluable asset to Born to Perform Studio.
MICHELLE JOHNSON
Dance Instructor | Choreographer | Dance & Voice Coach
Michelle Johnson is a dynamic actress and choreographer whose passion for storytelling shines both on stage and behind the scenes. With a background that bridges the worlds of acting and dance, Michelle brings a rare blend of emotional depth, creative vision, and expressive movement to every project she touches.
As an actress, Michelle has appeared in numerous stage productions and on-screen projects, earning praise for her natural presence, strong character work, and commitment to authentic performance. Her work spans from classic theatre to contemporary musical productions, where she consistently delivers performances that are heartfelt, grounded, and full of life.
As a choreographer, Michelle is known for her ability to craft movement that elevates story and character — transforming music and emotion into motion. Her choreography has been featured in local and regional productions, concerts, and youth musical theatre, where she thrives on helping performers find confidence and joy through dance.
A dedicated educator as well, Michelle is passionate about nurturing young artists. Through her teaching and mentorship at Born to Perform Studio, she inspires students to discover their individuality, embrace creativity, and perform with courage and heart.
LUKE SMITH
Dance Instructor | Choreographer | Voice & Dance Coach
Luke Smith is an accomplished choreographer, dancer, and actor whose passion for movement and storytelling has taken him from the stage to the screen — and everywhere in between. A California native, Luke has built a career rooted in versatility, precision, and pure performance joy.
With a background in both theatre and commercial dance, Luke has choreographed and performed for regional productions, music videos, and live events throughout Southern California. His choreography blends technical excellence with vibrant character work, earning a reputation for routines that are as emotionally compelling as they are visually dynamic.
As a performer, Luke’s credits include numerous stage productions, national tours, and appearances on film and television. Whether dancing center stage or bringing energy to a full ensemble, his creativity and professionalism shine through in every project.
Beyond performing, Luke is a passionate teacher and mentor, inspiring young dancers and actors to connect deeply with their craft. Through his work with Born to Perform Studio, he continues to shape the next generation of artists — encouraging them to move fearlessly, perform authentically, and tell powerful stories through movement.