Marion McClinton Legacy Fund

The Marion McClinton Legacy Fund

In the wake of Marion’s passing, a group of friends and loved ones have decided to launch a Legacy Fund in honor of Marion and his immense
contribution to the theatre community in Minnesota and beyond.

Marion was a brilliant writer, actor and director, helming productions for over 20 years nationally and internationally, including
Broadway, nominated for a Tony, winning an Olivier and an Audelco. He was considered the premiere August Wilson director, directing several of August’s plays, from regional premieres to Broadway runs. His work later in life, in Minnesota, was heralded and he would often say it was his best work.

He loved to workshop the works of emerging playwrights, sometimes paying his own way to do it. He felt it was critical to their development, and wanted them to see the true potential of their work. As both a writer (he was a lifetime Core Writer at the Playwrights' Center), and director, he loved nothing more than premiering new works.


At the core of his being was his life as an artist—he lived and breathed theatre. He was also a mentor to countless writers, directors, and actors—giving many of them their first starts or opportunities that would lead them to greater heights. He was also always proud to tout the achievements of his former assistant and associate directors—many of whom went on to make a name for themselves as theatre and film directors across the country. It is in honor of this love for young artists, for creating space for their brilliance to shine through—teaching, advising and supporting them.

We are now raising dollars for Marion's Legacy Fund, which will continue for many years and generations to come. To that end, we are seeking to raise at least $100,000. 

The goals for the Fund include:
1. Creation of a fellowship/scholarship for emerging actors, writers and directors.
2. Creation of an annual event celebrating the life and work of Marion.
3. Creation of a park bench in Marion’s honor.
4. Creation and placement of Marion’s archives and materials at a library to be accessible to the community.

Our timeline is to try and raise these funds in 6 months, with ongoing  support after reaching the goal in order to sustain the Fund going forward.

Please help spread the word & join us celebrating the legacy of one of this country's greatest artists and leaders.