Pitt loses leader in Africana studies

As a founder of the Kuntu Repertory and Black Horizons theaters, Robert Penny brought… As a founder of the Kuntu Repertory and Black Horizons theaters, Robert Penny brought inspiration, entertainment and a compassionate sense of humor to Pitt for more than three decades.

With graying dreadlocks and a kufi cap, Penny exhibited deep pride in his African heritage. He attacked racism, discrimination and economic inequality through a myriad of plays and poems that assure his message of social conscience will live on.

Penny, who died last Sunday after a bout with heart disease, joined Pitt’s Africana studies department in 1969. He was named chair of that department three years later and served that position until 1984.

Penny founded Black Horizons Theater in 1968. It closed three years later.

In 1974, Penny founded the Kuntu Repertory Theatre in 1974 with his friend and co-worker, Vernell Lillie. It started as a medium for Penny’s plays and it continues to grow today. Since its inception, the theatre has expanded to produce three major productions every year as well as 10 off-campus shows and collages.

According to Kuntu’s Web site, the theatre’s intent is to examine black life and to use the power of theater to “educate, entertain and move” all those involved to social action.

Penny was no stranger to social action. As a lifelong advocate of civil rights, Penny took a strong stance against possible war with Iraq.

Marcy Spidell met Rob Penny in 1972 when she began working for Pitt’s Africana studies department. “He’s was a great person with a great sense of humor,” Spidell said. “I’ll miss my best friend.”