The St. Paul company, which faced an existential financial crisis last year that forced it to cancel a slate of shows and to pare staff, announced Monday that it had exceeded its fundraising goal.

The company raised $359,000 by its self-imposed Dec. 30 deadline, enough to cover its expenses and resume programming in the spring. The donations came from over 1,400 individuals, corporations and foundations, the theater said.

"The response was inspiring and humbling with donations coming in from across the nation," said board chair Bill Stevens. "We are fortunate to have such a passionate family of supporters."

Penumbra will produce "Spunk," the George C. Wolfe musical based on three stories by Zora Neale Hurston, in March. Broadway choreographer Patdro Harris will direct the show.

In late summer, Penumbra announced that it has suspended its fall programming in order to battle an budget deficit. It eliminated six fulltime positions.

Penumbra also announced that it is developing a sustainable seven-year business plan that will include succession planning for administrative leader Widdess and founding artistic director Lou Bellamy (above).