WAGNER COLLEGE THEATRE TAKES CENTER STAGE AS THE NATION’S #1 COLLEGE THEATER PROGRAM
The spotlight is shining brighter than ever on Wagner College Theatre! In a thrilling achievement, the program has been named the #1 College Theatre program in the country by The Princeton Review’s 2026 edition of The Best 391 Colleges. This marks an historic high for the program, which has proudly held a spot among the top ten for over three decades running.
This well-deserved recognition celebrates more than just talent - it honors Wagner College Theatre’s signature blend of academic rigor and real-world experience, where theory meets practice in every rehearsal, script, and spotlight. The program doesn’t just train performers and technicians, it shapes well-rounded artists ready to thrive in every corner of the entertainment industry. The top ranking, which was based on student surveys, “is a tribute to our students, alumni, and faculty and the positive community we've built along the way,” said Dr. Felicia Ruff, Division Chair of the Arts.
“Being named the #1 college theater program in the country is an incredible honor,” said Michelle Siemens, General Manager of Wagner College Theatre. “This moment is a tribute to the heart and hustle of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. It reflects the vibrant, inclusive, and creatively fearless community we’ve built together. We’re beyond proud and deeply grateful to The Princeton Review for recognizing our accomplishments.”
Wagner College Theatre is known for pushing artistic boundaries with bold productions, immersive learning, and a supportive creative community. Its alumni have gone on to dazzle on Broadway, light up TV screens, bring stories to life on film, and shape the future of the industry behind the scenes.
As the program celebrates this national honor, eyes are already on the next act: the 2025-26 theatre season which will be dedicated to telling distinctly American stories—leading up to the 250th anniversary of our nation. Spanning across the country and the last century. From coast to heartland, from past to present, these are Portraits of America. Lived, Seen, Heard.