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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

NATHAN ECKSTEIN, 2010-2011 Recepient
Nathan Eckstein is a graduate of Twin Cities Academy High School and is currently a freshman at Lawrence University. Nathan is fluent in Spanish and was born in Bogota, Colombia. Nathan has acted in several shows, three of which were original musicals. Most recently Nathan originated the role of “Stu” in ALYESKA at blank slate theatre in St. Paul. Nathan has also served as assistant director for six original children's musicals. Throughout high school he served as production designer of his school play and headed up costumes, set, and makeup. He is also very interested in fashion and dance. Nathan has received theatre training at the Guthrie Theater, The Children's Theatre Company, and Stepping Stone Theatre and is an alumnus of Penumbra Theatre's Summer Institute 2008-2010.