The Theatre & Performance program at Georgia Southern University will kick off the 2015-2016 season with Martin McDonagh’s “The Pillowman” on Wednesday September 30.

Directed by Nicholas Newell, “The Pillowman” has been the winner of a Laurence Olivier Award for best play in 2004.

“The Pillowman” focuses on a writer in a tyrannical state who is investigated for gruesome material from his short stories that appear to mirror characteristics of a series of child murders.

This piece of theatrical valor and artistic nature explores a darker side of humanity and produces questions on the freedom of expression and role of art.

Senior Greg Hernandez snags the leading role of Katurian in his final performance on the GSU stage.

Sponsored in part by student activity fees, the play will run through Wednesday October 7 in the Black Box Theatre in the Center for Art & Theatre on campus. All shows start at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Sunday October 2.

The play is recommended for mature audiences because of language and content.

Seating is general admission and student tickets are $6 each. Faculty and community tickets are $12.