Claude Edison Purdy was a founding Penumbra Theatre Company member whose vision and commitment laid the aesthetic bedrock for the theatre. A visual director, Claude painted African American life with a careful palette and created tableaus onstage that would arrest the breath. He mentored many actors and directors throughout the country, and encouraged one young poet to try his hand at playwriting. August Wilson went on to establish himself as one of the most celebrated American playwrights and was twice awarded the esteemed Pulitzer Prize. Not only did Claude's own artistry impact the American theatre landscape, his mentorship helped to steer the development of Wilson's oeuvre, the most comprehensive dramatic examination of African American life through the 20th century. Based on nominations from Penumbra Company Members and in celebration of Claude’s memory, Penumbra awards one fellowship per season to an emerging male African American theatre artist. During his one year term in residence, he will receive free training and mentorship from Penumbra artists in the area of acting or directing.

Maximum participants: 1 fellow per year.
Open to African American male students or artists over eighteen years of age.
For more information, email

DEVIN CLARK - 2009-2010 Recepient
Devin graduated from Minnehaha Academy and is currently attending Wheaton College in Illinois where he is majoring in communications with a concentration in theatre. Throughout his high school career he was seen in productions such as As You Like It (Oliver); Beauty and the Beast (Beast); and And Then There Were None (William Blore). Devin has had the opportunity to receive training at the Penumbra Summer Institute for two years. Devin will be playing the role of Willy in an upcoming production of Master Harold and the Boys for the 2009-2010 season at Wheaton College. He looks forward to continuing his pursuit of a career in acting.