The Golden Wish

Joshua Michael Acosta-Velez is excited to star in this amazing new musical! Working with this incredibly talented and collaborate creative team has been a blast! Favorite credits include: LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Seymour), PIPPIN (Pippin) INTO THE WOODS (Jack), A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM (Lysander). He also received two best acting awards through the Jerry Herman Awards, and performed in New York twice to receive a Jimmy Award. Joshua would like to thank his entire family including his parents, his sister, his brother, his "new" parents, "new" brother, and "new" sisters for their unwavering and amazing support. Lastly, and certainly not least, he would like to thank his wife, Britney, for her amazing patience, kindness, love, support, resilience, brilliance, and bright/beautiful energy that she brings into his life. Insta: @himejoshy

Irene Cho is a student in the Musical Theater Conservatory at the Orange County School of the Arts and is thrilled to be part of the Golden Wish cast. She has performed in musicals throughout the U.S. and South Korea, with highlights including her Carnegie Hall debut and appearances at the Ebell Theater of Los Angeles. A national award-winning vocalist, Irene is known for her expressive storytelling and versatility on stage. She is deeply grateful to the cast, creative team, and her family for their unwavering support.

Sarah Z. Wang is a versatile artist whose journey began with classical dance, piano, and voice, leading to a Bachelor of Music from Sydney Conservatorium and a Master’s in Vocal Arts & Opera from USC under Elizabeth Hynes. A recipient of multiple prestigious scholarships, Sarah has performed roles from Cherubino to Violetta, appearing with companies like Mission Opera and Opera Italiana. She has sung at the Aspen Music Festival, with the Verdi Chorus, and in cabaret. Passionate about outreach, she created Best Singing Telegram during the pandemic and recently debuted in the world premiere of The Camp by Daniel Kessner.

Gigi is a talented young performer with a diverse portfolio in both commercial and stage experiences. In 2023, she starred as the Little Ballerina Girl in the Patpat Go-Glow campaign and appeared in print and BTS videos for Carter’s summer collection and Target’s fall and Halloween collections. She also featured in Intex's floats and swim toys packaging and print collections, as well as Disney Store’s Halloween and holiday collections, and Matel’s American Girl Holiday campaign, which was displayed on Times Square.

Eugene Cho is a 17 year old Soprano from La Cañada High School with a passion for music and performance. She has been studying voice for nearly two years with Sunjoo Yeo. Eugene won place in the 2024 Golden Classical Music Awards, which led to a solo performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. She is also a two time winner of the Concordia Music Competition in 2024 and 2025. Eugene was selected for the Southern California Regional Honors Choir and currently sings with her school’s Chamber Singers. She recently played the youth principal role of Veronica in The Three Women of Jerusalem with LA Opera Connects, conducted by James Conlon, performed at Carnegie Hall in New York, and performed in Vibra Voce’s 5th Voices of Asia concert at the historic Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles.

Gary is a prominent figure in the Los Angeles theater scene in Chinese-American community, known for his nuanced acting and steady stage presence that have won the hearts of many audiences. He has also made his mark in Hollywood’s commercial industry, becoming the face of several major brands with his outstanding performances. Beyond acting, he is celebrated as the “Prince of Chinese Love Songs in Los Angeles” for his soulful voice, which conveys deep emotions and resonates strongly with listeners.

Pearl is an enthusiastic 11-year-old performer with a growing passion for musical theatre. She has participated in several school plays, where she’s loved bringing characters to life through acting, singing, and stage presence. With a natural sense of expression and a love for storytelling, she is excited to continue learning, performing, and exploring new opportunities in the world of theatre.

Chris is very excited to be making his musical debut in Golden Wish. He was recently seen in Lioness Season 2 on Paramount+. As an actor, pianist, guitarist, and food critic from Houston, TX, Chris also loves to play tennis and write songs. He wants to thank his family and friends for their love and support, and the Golden Wish team for this opportunity!

Jeff is ecstatic to be in his first musical in five years, having longed for the stage. He'd like to thank his musical confidante, Sean Paul, for sharing this opportunity. He's grateful to the production crew for giving him the chance to perform again, and to his friends and family for supporting his artistic adventures.

Madeline Kang is a 12-year-old seventh grader who loves singing, dancing, and musical theater. She has been a member of the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus since 2020 and currently sings in the Concert Choir. Madeline has performed in Beauty and the Beast Jr. at Huntington Middle School and in productions with Upstage Theatre School, including Aladdin and Willy Wonka Jr. She also trains in ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and tap at the Pasadena Civic Ballet Center. Madeline is thrilled to be part of The Golden Wish!

Natalie is a passionate performer with a rich background in vocal arts, classical and contemporary music, and dance. Trained at a top Los Angeles arts high school, she has earned national and international recognition for her voice, praised for its purity and emotional depth. Natalie brings years of experience in music competitions, showcases, and multilingual performances to every role. “The Golden Wish” marks another exciting chapter in her journey as a dynamic and expressive artist.

Philbert has been inspired to act ever since he was in the movie, Everything Everywhere All at once. After that experience, Philbert started to work even harder at acting and hosting at Unistar. He is now in his 6th year and has worked in many short films and YouTube videos. This year, he is dedicated to improving his skills in acting and learning from the production of the Golden Wish Musical.

Sophia, 12 years old, is a passionate lover of theater, singing, music, and dance. When she’s not performing, she enjoys reading, dancing hip hop/k-pop, playing guitar, and spending time with her friends and family. Sophia is thrilled to be part of this incredible cast and can’t wait to share this exciting musical with the audience!

Jessica Wang – Age 10 Jessica Wang is a 10-year-old vocal powerhouse with a heart as big as her voice. She’s been singing since before she could talk and hasn’t looked back. From toy microphones to the grand stage of Carnegie Hall, her journey hit a high note when she won Kids Got Talent. Jessica lights up every room she performs in and loves teaching and helping younger kids discover their own voices. When she’s not singing, she enjoys drawing, reading, playing piano, and chasing her next favorite dessert. Her dream? To sing around the world and make hearts smile—one song at a time. YouTube: @jessicawang4711

Hi! My name is Katherine Liu and I’m 9 years old. I’ve loved making art since I was little, and I enjoy creating colorful, imaginative pictures with personality. I especially like drawing and painting animals, flowers, and animate figures. When I’m not making art, I love listening to music, dancing, reading, and playing sports. I often get inspired by songs, dreams, and the world around me. Sometimes I even create art based on how music or dance makes me feel! Art helps me express myself and brings me joy. I hope my artwork brings a little joy to you too!

Caitlyn is a 9-year-old artist who loves creating art about animals, and animation. She started drawing when she was 4 and has been making art ever since! She enjoys using Sketch pencils, watercolors, oil sticks and chalk, and often works on sketch anime and characters. Along with art, Caitlyn loves gymnastic, dancing, singing, making slime and playing with barbie dolls. She takes Ballet and Tap/piano classes. When not making art, she enjoys playing with dolls, reading, watch TV, make slime, or play video games. Caitlyn dreams of becoming an artist and hopes to inspire other young artist.

Caliya Chiu is a 7th grader at Sierra Madre Middle School and a proud member of the Glee Club. She is thrilled to be part of this cast. Theater credits include Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Highlands Theater), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Pasadena Playhouse), Toon Tales, and Movie Musicals Revue (Pasadena Musical Theatre Program). She co-directed, co-wrote, and composed for Eugene’s Adventure. Film: Reagan, Far East Deep South. Additionally, Caliya has performed in viral music videos celebrating Asian American identity, such as “12 Days of Dim Sum.”

Baldwin Chiu, aka Only Won, is a critically acclaimed hip-hop artist and film producer. His album The Lyrical Engineer, produced by Grammy-nominated Noel Arthurton, explores unique topics from dim sum to thermodynamics. His music appears in films like Dead Man Down and the hit video game Sleeping Dogs. Known for witty viral videos such as “Cantonese Boy” and “12 Days of Dim Sum,” he has amassed millions of views. Baldwin also produced the acclaimed PBS documentary Far East Deep South, uncovering his family’s hidden history in Mississippi, with a score by composer Nathan Wang.

Karisse Mui is a fun-loving, outgoing 12-year-old. She loves dancing, singing, and acting. Karisse is super social and has lots of friends, often taking the lead when there’s something fun to do or plan. She’s traveled to many places and enjoys experiencing new things. Whether she’s performing on stage or just hanging out, Karisse brings a lot of energy. With her love for the arts and her confident, friendly personality, she’s ready for whatever comes next—and always with a big smile.

Issac Chen, 9 years old, is a 4th grade student with a strong passion for performing arts. He has been on stage since kindergarten, appearing in more than eight musicals and playing lead roles in over five productions. From August 2024 to August 2025, Issac was signed with DDO Kids Commercial. He has also been a junior host with Unistar for nearly four years, gaining experience in live hosting and public speaking. Outside of performing, Issac enjoys reading, singing, playing golf, and exploring math.

Larissa Lam is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and filmmaker from Diamond Bar, CA who has toured nationally, performing at Lincoln Center, Dolby Theater, The Grammy Museum, and more. She has released four acclaimed solo albums and won a Hollywood Music in Media Award for her song “I Feel Alive.” As a composer, she collaborated with renowned author C.Y. Lee on the musical Lady of Joy and has written music for The Oprah Winfrey Show and other projects. Lam recently directed the PBS documentary Far East Deep South, which explores Chinese history in Mississippi during segregation.

Nina Tang is an actor, dancer, and voice artist who has appeared in some short films with Sweet Deals Media, and in an upcoming movie called "Contra". She has had previous training in musical theatre, and wishes to exapand on her skill in this area. She is excited for this oppurtunity and will do her best to contribute in any way she can!

Priscilla is a fun-loving seventh grader who loves to sing, dance, and perform. She has been involved in school musicals and choir, and still enjoys performing for crowds whenever she can. A former competitive dancer, Priscilla continues to perform for audiences and express herself through movement and music. Outside of performing, she enjoys designing clothes, reading, and—of course—singing whenever she gets the chance. She is thrilled to be part of this production and can't wait to share the experience with you!

Terena Phan is excited to be a part of the Golden Wish Musical. Currently, Terena serves on this year’s Miss Los Angeles Chinatown Court as 4th Princess. In the past, she has done numerous musical productions, such as Peter Pan, Hairspray, and A Christmas Carol. In her free time, Terena enjoys singing, acting, and playing with her band at church. Terena is grateful for this opportunity to be a part of this musical— in which we are able to amplify and highlight the special stories and take pride in our Asian culture. She gives much thanks to her friends and family for their unwavering support through it all.

Tina is an enthusiastic singer currently training in bel canto technique. She has performed at various cultural events, including 華人春晚, a locally televised Chinese Spring Festival celebration. Prior to pursuing her musical interests, Tina spent over 20 years in the investment management industry.

Neo Liu's cross-cultural journey fuels his music, which mirrors his life's experiences.

His talent was recognized early, reaching the Top 10 of ETTV Top Idol (2005) where he met mentor Jodi Tomlionson. He followed this by securing 2nd Place in the 2006 AM1430 Singing Contest.

Liu broke through globally with "Calling for Rain," featured in the film Kingsglaive Final Fantasy XV (2016), a track that garnered millions of streams.

With over 3.5 million total streams, he continues to evolve his sound, releasing the Pop Dance track "Run" and the introspective "Rewind." Neo Liu remains focused on creating enduring music that stands apart from disposable pop.