Penumbra is known for artistically excellent, authentic work that speaks clearly and consistently through the African American experience. Over the next five years, Penumbra Theatre Company will produce each one of August Wilson's plays in the cycle that traces black American life decade by decade from 1900 to 2000. In conjunction with this unprecedented occasion, we are excited to announce The Wilson Lab.

The Wilson Lab is a forum that will explore the plays and the ensemble approach to the craft that has become Penumbra's distinctive style borne from the early collaborations between the playwright, actors, directors and designers. Over the next five years, Penumbra will develop a curriculum to formally teach and preserve this aesthetic, leaving a legacy for the next generations of black artists and students to follow. Our approach to culturally specific drama reflects a truly ensemble aesthetic. The students who participate in our training programs tell us that what we teach and how we teach it is inspiring and unlike anything else. They learn to create art with intent; art for social change.

In addition to seminars and workshop style classes in acting, directing and playwriting, The Lab will generate materials for reference and study including both creative and critical work. This body of work will be housed in Penumbra's archives at the Givens Collection of African American Literature through the University of Minnesota Libraries and will be available for public use.