The University of Rochester is putting a contemporary spin on the 1939 Bertolt Brecht-penned play "Mother Courage and Her Children" as part of its International Theatre Program. "Mother Courage" is both a dark comedy and a poignant political drama about a matriarch and wily profiteer who struggles to keep herself and her family alive during wartime. Under the direction of the talented Nigel Maister, this new production features Bridget Haile in the title role and an original score by Music Director Matt Marks. An Eastman alumnus, Marks's predilection for pop music and the horror genre have helped to make him a prominent "wild child" on the New York City contemporary classical scene. If you enjoy modern theater, new music, or are simply interested in something completely different, you'll find this play to be a special production you're unlikely to see elsewhere.

"Mother Courage and Her Children" continues its run Wednesday, April 13, through Saturday, April 16, at 8 p.m.; Sunday, April 17, at 2 p.m.; and Wednesday, April 20, through Saturday, April 23, at 8 p.m. Todd Theater on University of Rochester's River Campus. $10-$18. 275-4088; rochester.edu/theatre.