From dark comedies to a Stephen Sondheim classic, the University of Kansas’ Department of Theatre and Dance soon will launch a new season that focuses on how we live through troubled times.

The department has announced its 2023-2024 performance schedule, which marks the 100th anniversary of theater education at KU.

“This year’s season offers lively and relevant takes on the way we live and work together in tumultuous times,” said Henry Bial, professor and chair of the department.

Here’s a look at the schedule:

• Oct. 6, 7, 8*, 10, 11, 12 – “Collective Rage,” William Inge Memorial Theatre. A dark comedy of “provocative exploration of self-expression” that also features puppets.

• Nov. 3, 4, 5* – University Dance Company Fall Concert, Crafton Preyer-Theatre.

• Nov. 18, 19 – Fall Senior Showcase, Elizabeth Sherbon Blackbox Theatre.

• Nov. 30, Dec. 2*, 2, 3, 4, 6 – “Milking Christmas,” William Inge Memorial Theatre. A new musical and comedic critique that was composed by Ryan McCall, a KU lecturer.

• Feb. 16, 18*, 20, 22, 2024 – “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” Crafton Preyer-Theatre. The classic by Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler will feature the KU Symphony Orchestra.

• March 22, 23, 24*, 26, 27, 28, 2024 – “SWEAT,” William Inge Memorial Theatre. A drama by two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage.

• April 5, 6, 7*, 2024 – University Dance Company Spring Concert, Crafton Preyer-Theatre.

• April 25, 26, 27, 28*, 2024 – Jayhawk Performance Lab/Spring Dance Showcase, Elizabeth Sherbon Blackbox Theatre.

All shows begin at 7:30 p.m., except for those dates marked with an asterisk, which will begin at 2:30 p.m.