Student Testimonial: Rider University

Milika Griffiths - Rider University

Milika arrived at Rider with very little experience and training.

“I knew I could sing, but I had no repertoire. And I never thought I could act."

Milika credits private lessons with voice teacher, Carolann Page, for transforming her singing.

“She pushed me to sing notes I never thought possible and helped me discover a voice I never knew I had.”

With help from Professor Page and accompanist Louis Goldberg, Milika worked daily to build her repertoire. She learned five songs each week! Milika also worked closely with Acting for Film, Television and Theatre program faculty Trent Blanton and Miriam Mills.

"These are people who know the business. They gave me my repertoire and gave me confidence in my acting. They helped me get out of my shell and onto the stage."

In April 2015, Milika took a one-hour train ride to Chelsea Studios for an open call audition for the Tony-winning musical Ragtime. After two callbacks, she was offered an ensemble role.

"Rider's location is absolutely critical for theatre majors. I would never have toured with Ragtime if I hadn't gone to Rider. When I walked into that audition I was fearless and confident. I knew I had the education and preparation. It was amazing. I was so excited!"

Milika returned to Rider following the 2015-16 national tour of Ragtime and graduated in Spring 2017. After graduation she traveled to Maine where she performed for Ogunquit Playhouse in the new musical From Here to Eternity. In 2018, she joined the Disney Cruise Line as a MainStage performer. In 2020, she joined the multi award-winning hit Broadway musical, Hamilton.