Penumbra Theatre — Attraction in Saint Paul

I visited the Penumbra Theatre with my family for the first to enjoy their iconic Christmas show titled Black Nativity. The entrance to the theatre is unnassuming, and somewhat underwhelming. However, from the formal yet very welcoming greeter handing out programs and then entering the theatre itself felt warm, intimate, and unique. The play itself was a tour du force, with the lead expertly performed by legendary jazz singer Dennis Spears. The music, singing, and dancers brought the biblical story of the birth of Jesus to life in a way that I won't forget. Inspirational, life affirming and utterly joyful. Bravo Penumbra, my family and I look forward to attending more productions at...

What's with the 85 degrees for the audience? It was oppressively hot with a super hot, blast of air drilling us the entire performance of Black Nativity. For thos who do not know, 'Black Nativity', if you are old enough it is akin to Jesus Christ Superstar focusing on Jesus's birth in a soulful, R & B format. It's good, but could be better if the women soloists could sing consistently in key. The performance was ruined though by the blast furnace heat . .. almost like the Penumbra wanted us to experience the performance like we were literally in the...

This show that I went to "re-memori"was an amazing one woman show very culturally on point.... It took so many different aspects of the American black experience from just after chattel slavery up until today's plight.... Very very very very very very well done by the orator as well as the sound and lighting crew.... For those that have never been to the PENUMBRA theater you don't want to miss a show this is the show that gets you to want to go again and again very intimate setting, yet spacious...