Authentic

For the past 10 years, Penumbra Theatre has conducted a multiyear leadership program for teenage students in two tracks that culminate in a performance. The students all work under professional actors, directors and composers, including Sanford Moore, Sun Mee Chomet and JuCoby Johnson, the young Guthrie BFA graduate who's making a name for himself. Last weekend, first-year students were expressive as they danced, recited poetry and performed poignant sketches about teachers, sexual assault and stereotypes. This year's second-year students, who worked with similarly accomplished faculty, will share their honest, heartfelt pieces for one night only. (7 p.m. Sat., Penumbra Theatre, 270 N. Kent St., St. Paul. $10. 651-224-3180, penumbratheatre.org.)

Rohan Preston