Will Ragland to Receive S.C. Theatre Association Founders Award

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

Mill Town Players Founder Will Ragland has been chosen the recipient of the South Carolina Theatre Association’s Founders Award for 2023.

The award is organization’s the top honor, and is given to recognize the individual or organization that has made the most significant contribution to theatre in South Carolina during the year most recently completed. The honor will be given to Ragland at the group’s annual meeting in June in Columbia.

“The South Carolina Theatre Association has been instrumental in my development as a South Carolina theater artist for the past 15 years,” said Ragland. “Being recognized in this way is especially meaningful to me coming from a group of people for whom I care so deeply.”

Ragland has served in various roles of the SCTA for 13 years, including president in 2023.After teaching theater in public schools for 10 years, Ragland established the Mill Town Players in 2014. In the years since, the theater has produced more than 75 shows which were seen by more than 200,000 patrons.

Known for his visual acuity and set designs that some have said rival those on Broadway, Ragland has worked with hundreds of local artists – including many former students. His understanding and work in all facets of production from scenic design, lighting, sound, acting, and costuming have distinguished his work.