Meet the Team
Ben Rost
Founder + Instructor
I’m the founder of Rising Star Studios and a professional performer who’s been working in the industry since I was 9. I’ve trained at the Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Conservatory and performed in The Hours at the Metropolitan Opera. My experience includes voiceover work and lead roles like Fagin in Oliver!, Kristoff in Frozen Jr., and Oliver Warbucks in Annie Jr. I also placed 2nd in the national Hal Leonard Vocal Competition, standing out among hundreds of young performers.
In addition to musical theatre, I’m classically trained and also teach classical voice for students looking to build strong technique and control. Whether prepping for a show or refining vocal skills, I tailor each lesson to the student’s goals.
Having grown up onstage, I know how important it is for young performers to feel confident and supported. I meet every student where they are, creating lessons that are fun, focused, and full of encouragement.
Marin Wilson
Instructor
I’ve been passionate about acting, singing, and dancing since I was 8 years old. Some of my favorite roles include Anastasia in Anastasia, Matilda in Matilda, and Lydia in Beetlejuice. I’m currently training at the Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Conservatory, growing alongside other young professionals, including my fellow instructor, Ben.
In addition to performing, I’ve directed, choreographed, and starred in several productions. I especially enjoy helping kids and teens with audition prep and confidence coaching, guiding them to find their voice and shine.
Caeley Arellano
Instructor
I’ve been singing, dancing, and performing on stage for as long as I can remember. Some of my favorite roles include Belle in Beauty and the Beast with Broadway Workshop and Gabriella in High School Musical Jr., which went viral on TikTok with over 4.6 million views and reached audiences around the world. I’ve trained at the Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Conservatory and studied with top vocal coach Alyson Ibrandeson, as well as incredible professionals through The Wright Way Intensive — including Rance Wright, Joe Barros, Hector Flores Jr., and Allison Frank.
In addition to musical theatre, I’m a proud member of the band Mousetrap and recently had the amazing opportunity to perform at The Bitter End in NYC. As a coach, I love helping students tap into their unique sound, express themselves confidently, and grow in a fun, supportive environment.
Cayden Tan
Instructor
I’ve been singing, acting, and performing onstage since I was 9 years old and have been represented by DDO Talent Agency since 2023. Some of my favorite roles include Beast in Beauty and the Beast with Broadway Workshop and Don Lockwood in Singin’ in the Rain. I currently study Musical Theater at the Manhattan School of Music Pre-College program. My work has reached over 9 million views on Instagram, allowing me to connect with young performers around the world.
Outside of performing, I’m the co-founder of Voices for Change, a nonprofit supporting neurodivergent youth in the theater community. As a coach, I love helping students build stage presence, connect emotionally through song, and prepare audition material — all while making sure they feel confident, supported, and empowered.