OnStage, one of the leading blogs on the theatrical profession, has ranked Coastal Carolina University No. 13 on its list of the top 25 BFA Theatre Design and Tech programs in the country and No. 25 on its list of the top BFA musical theatre programs for 2018-19. This marks the second year the design and tech program has been ranked on the OnStage list.

This honor confirms the quality and innovative nature of CCU's theatre department, as well as its commitment to representing the top of its field in theater technology and design as well as musical theatre.

"I think we are recognized as a top program now because of the number of graduates we have out there working in the field," said Ken Martin, professor and chair of the Department of Theatre. "The people that we hired in the last several years are of high quality, and others recognize that. CCU is active nationally for recruitment. I am sure all those things combined build a brand, and I believe those things are why the recognition is happening."

In its listings, OnStage noted that CCU's design and tech program offers students accessibility to both faculty and guest designers as well as an opportunity to contribute as designer in the areas of costuming, lighting, scenery or properties in onstage productions. The BFA musical theater entry highlighted the program's aggressive production schedule and student participation in production. The blog also highlighted student opportunities with Second Stage Productions, Dance Company and the New Works Reading Series.

Based in New Haven, Conn., OnStage covers and reviews design, theater events and culture.

Read the blog on theatre design and tech here and on musical theatre here. Follow the Department of Theatre on Facebook or visit coastal.edu/theatre.