Alexis Hasbrouck '20

Prior to attending Rider, Hasbrouck had no formal training in singing or acting.

Hasbrouck, who has been dancing since she was three years old, decided late in her high school career that she wanted to pursue musical theater. Born and raised just an hour outside of New York City, her dream has always been to be a professional performing artist. Despite having been accepted into Rider’s highly competitive musical theatre program with minimal experience, Hasbrouck says that one of her biggest challenges as a student was her confidence.

“Musical theater was brand new to me going into college. I had danced my whole life but singing and acting were like a foreign language. Rider University took a chance on me and saw my potential even though I have never tried to act or sing. I actually took my first voice lesson and acting class at Rider.”

Through hard work and the help of her professors, she honed her raw talent and turned it into success.

“There were certain staff members who saw my potential and continued to work with me in and out of the classroom. They made me feel worth it and showed me that I could and would make it in this competitive world that I chose. Working hard on my craft was something that helped me gain the confidence I needed to be successful and continue to be successful and grow in my career.”

Hasbrouck also took advantage of Rider’s unique programs to gain invaluable performance experience.

Programs like Rider’s signature Engaged Learning program allow students the opportunity to apply their classroom training to professional settings to help them explore their career interests and be better prepared for life after graduation. Before her final semester of college, Hasbrouck took an approved gap year to work professionally—an experience that undoubtedly developed her skills as a performer and shaped her current career path. She went on to complete her degree during the COVID-19 pandemic, graduating in just three years with a 3.8 GPA. Although she never had the chance to walk at a traditional graduation ceremony, Hasbrouck remains incredibly proud of her accomplishments, both in the classroom and on the stage.

“I got a job working for Royal Caribbean Productions in Cats the Musical on Oasis of the Seas. I was Rumpleteazer in Cats the Musical, and part of the last cast in the entire world to do the full original production of Cats before changes were made, which I think is a cool fun fact. I was also a dancer/vocalist in the production show onboard, Come Fly With Me.”

She continues, “I would not have been able to take this amazing job opportunity if it weren't for the musical theatre department.”

Now, Hasbrouck is on Broadway, fulfilling her ultimate dream.

In late 2024, Hasbrouck joined the cast of The Great Gatsby at the Broadway Theatre where she performs as part of the ensemble. This milestone marks a significant achievement in her career, bringing her lifelong dream of performing on a Broadway stage to life. 

Prior to The Great Gatsby, Hasbrouck performed in Hamilton as part of the ensemble and made her national tour debut in Moulin Rouge! The Musical, where she performed eight shows a week while also serving as an understudy. Reflecting on her journey, Hasbrouck shares, “It’s a dream come true to be in productions of this caliber. Rider University believed in me when I had no formal training, and I’m so proud to see how far I’ve come.” 

From her early days dancing at three years old to her first voice and acting classes at Rider, Hasbrouck’s story is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of hard work. Her journey inspires future performers to believe that dreams can become reality—just as hers did on the Broadway stage.