The performing arts landscape in Ventura County is undergoing a major evolution, and Born to Perform Studio (BTPS) is leading the charge with significant, fresh updates as of late 2025. This isn't just another local acting school; it's a dynamic, full-service musical theatre training ground that has dramatically expanded its physical footprint and production schedule, cementing its status as a regional powerhouse for aspiring performers of all ages.
The studio’s commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and professional training environment has culminated in the highly anticipated opening of its brand-new Studio Theatre at the Simi Valley Town Center, a move that allows them to host larger, more ambitious productions like the upcoming 2025/2026 season showcases. This expansion, driven by the vision of its local founders, signals a new era for youth and adult musical theatre in the region, offering unparalleled opportunities from vocal coaching to mainstage performances.
The Visionaries: Born to Perform Studio Co-Founders and Directors
Born to Perform Studio was founded on a deep-rooted commitment to the local community, a vision brought to life by two lifelong Simi Valley residents. The studio, which first opened its doors in the summer of 2017, is the brainchild of Ryan Lefton and Brent Ramirez, who serve as the primary directors and coaches.
Their combined expertise in acting, directing, and vocal pedagogy forms the core of the BTPS curriculum.
- Ryan Lefton: Co-Owner, Director, and Acting Instructor
As Co-Owner and Director, Ryan Lefton is the driving force behind the studio's theatrical and acting programs. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists, focusing on creating a safe space where young performers can train and truly be themselves.
- Brent Ramirez: Co-Founder, Studio Owner, and Master Vocal Coach
Brent Ramirez is the studio’s Master Vocal Coach and Performance Coach. He manages the vocal and performance training, specializing in private vocal lessons for serious vocalists looking to enhance their skills. His background ensures that every student receives professional-level instruction in voice and performance technique.
- Lexi Lefton: Studio Manager
Lexi Lefton handles the day-to-day operations as the Studio Manager, ensuring the smooth running of classes, logistics, and student coordination.
A Game-Changing Move: The New Studio Theatre in Simi Valley
The biggest update for Born to Perform Studio is the inauguration of their dedicated, brand-new Studio Theatre located in the bustling Simi Valley Town Center.
This move is a monumental step, transitioning the studio from a traditional training space in Westlake Village to a fully integrated performing arts center capable of hosting professional-quality, on-site productions.
Key Details of the New Simi Valley Venue
- Location: The Born to Perform Studio Theater is situated at the Simi Valley Town Center (1555 Simi Town Center Way, Suite 545/525).
- Impact: The new theatre allows BTPS to host major annual events, including the highly anticipated annual YES Showcase (Youth Entertainment Showcase), which is already scheduled to be held in the new space for YES 2025.
- Community Focus: Founders Lefton and Ramirez, both lifelong residents, emphasized that the theatre is about giving local kids a stage, joining a strong local tradition of performing arts in the Ventura County area.
The Comprehensive and Tiered BTPS Curriculum
Born to Perform Studio is renowned for its comprehensive approach to musical theatre training, offering a tiered curriculum that supports learners of all styles, backgrounds, and experience levels, from kids to teens and adults.
The studio's philosophy is rooted in nurturing a genuine love for the arts, providing a pathway for performers to develop foundational skills before moving into advanced production work.
Core Training Disciplines and Programs
- Vocal Training: Led by Master Vocal Coach Brent Ramirez, this includes group classes and limited-space Private Vocal Lessons designed for the serious vocalist looking to enhance their range, technique, and performance quality.
- Acting Classes: The program covers essential acting techniques for the stage, focusing on character development, scene study, and script analysis, often led by Director Ryan Lefton.
- Dance Program: The dynamic dance curriculum is tailored to different interests and skill levels, encompassing specialized classes in Tap, Jazz, and Musical Theatre Dance.
- Tiered Production System: BTPS operates a structured system that includes Advanced Production, Open Production (Jr & Sr), and Mainstage Production (15+ & Over 18), ensuring students participate in age- and skill-appropriate shows.
The 2025/2026 Production Season and Future Outlook
The most exciting news for the community is the announcement of the 2025/2026 PRODUCTION SEASON, which will be fully showcased in the new Simi Valley Studio Theatre.
This commitment to a full season of shows demonstrates the studio's growth and its ability to provide consistent, high-quality performance opportunities.
Recent successful productions, such as the 2024 presentation of *The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee*, starring a cast of high schoolers from the Ventura County area, highlight the caliber of talent being developed at the studio.
Future productions already on the calendar include *You're a Good Man Charlie Brown*, scheduled for January 2026, further illustrating the studio’s commitment to classic and contemporary musical theatre repertoire.
With the new theatre space and a robust production schedule, Born to Perform Studio continues to be a vital hub for the performing arts, solidifying its role in shaping the careers of young artists across Westlake Village, Simi Valley, and the greater Ventura County area.
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