Gala

The culminating civic and cultural event of this landmark season, our 50th Gala will bring together artists, philanthropists, civic leaders, and long-standing supporters for an evening honoring the individuals and institutions that have sustained Penumbra’s legacy across five decades.

For 50 years, Penumbra has helped shape the cultural landscape of Minnesota and the nation — championing Black artists, expanding the American theatre canon, and creating spaces where truth, beauty, and belonging can flourish.

Now, we invite you to celebrate this milestone with us. Save the date for an unforgettable evening of reflection, recognition, and joy as we honor the artists, audiences, and communities who have kept the flame burning for five decades — and look ahead to the stories, conversations, and possibilities still to come. This extraordinary celebration will take place on May 8, 2027. More details to come.

“You have to act as if it were possible to radically transform the world. And you have to do it all the time.”
—Angela Davis, Activist, professor, and author

“We tend to think of healing as something binary. But healing and growth take place on a continuum, with innumerable points between utter brokenness and total health.”
—Dr. Resmaa Menakem, Therapist, author, and trauma specialist

“I believe that one of the most beautiful things about theater is that no one artist can do it alone.”
—Harrison David Rivers, Playwright and Penumbra company member

“You cannot use someone else’s fire. You can only use your own. And in order to do that, you must first be willing to believe that you have it.”
—Audre Lorde, Black feminist, lesbian, poet, mother, warrior

“You cannot give energy if you’re not on fire on the inside.”
—Rev. Jesse Jackson, American civil rights leader, Baptist minister, and political activist

“Within Penumbra's walls, a genuine spirit of care breathes and thrives, weaving a rich and tender atmosphere where creative courage is not just invited, but deeply embraced.”
—Lester Purry, Actor and Penumbra company member