Penumbra Theatre Announces 2011-2012 Season

Two Trains Running by August Wilson

September 29 – October 30, 2011
Directed by Lou Bellamy
Presented by Cargill

In 1969 the Hill District is gentrifying, threatening the cultural heart of black Pittsburgh. Slated for demolition is Memphis’ diner, the last refuge for a makeshift family of wounded souls who have all but given up. It takes a newcomer named Sterling – a young convict with a heart that lives up to his name – to change the rules of the game. Unknowingly, the regulars take up a fight that carries them headlong into the Civil Rights Movement. Two Trains Running is an inspiring story about the protest that changed a nation.

Julius By Design  by Kara Lee Corthron

February 9 – March 4, 2012

Directed by Lou Bellamy

Regional premiere

Presented by RBC Wealth Management

Laurel and Josephine survived the murder of their teenage son by focusing on the small things in life: morning coffee, a crossword puzzle, their weekend plans. Secretly, though, Josephine has been writing letters to his killer. A story about loss, forgiveness, and courage, Julius by Design testifies to the power of hope in the wake of tragedy.

Bourbon at the Border  by Pearl Cleage

March 29 – April 22, 2012

Directed by Lou Bellamy

Crusaders on the frontlines of the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi, Charlie and May had a love that seemed untouchable.  However, they did not know the price they would pay for their idealism. Years later, bound only by the trauma of violence and terror they endured, they face a choice: survive alone or die together. Bourbon at the Border is the gripping story of their last fight for freedom.

The Amen Corner by James Baldwin

May 11 – June 17, 2012

Directed by Lou Bellamy

Musical direction by Sanford Moore

A Penumbra Theatre production presented at the Guthrie Theater

 
As the pastor of her church, Sister Margaret Alexander has devoted her life to the Lord and given up on earthly love. However, when her son’s search for his father uncovers a secret from her past, Sister Margaret faces a reckoning. Featuring gospel music by Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, The Amen Corner questions the price of salvation.

Note: Penumbra season ticket packages include this production.

I Wish You Love  by Dominic Taylor

November 18 – December 4, 2011
Directed by Lou Bellamy

Back by popular demand!
In 1957, Americans were falling in love to the sweet sounds of Nat “King” Cole. His carefully manicured image distracted an entire generation of white viewers from the reality of racial violence raging in the streets. Still, Cole believed that with enough talent and persistence he would be judged on the content of his character as opposed to the color of his skin. Join us for this return engagement-an intimate portrait of one man, his music, and the dreams of a nation.

Note: This special presentation is not offered in the season ticket package.

Single tickets for I Wish You Love are on sale now through the Penumbra Theatre Box Office at 651-224-3180 or www.penumbratheatre.org.