Pen, Paint, and Pretzels, the umbrella organization for student-run performing arts groups at Tufts University, presents its fall mainstage show, “Red Noses,” by Peter Barnes and directed by Katie Rooney. “Red Noses” is a black comedy about the black death, a vibrant and slapstick hymn to the power of laughter and the human spirit. The show centers on soul-searching monk Marcel Flote, who feels a call from God to cure the plague through laughter. Forming the Order of the Red Noses, he travels with a group of entertainers to spread laughter, but finds the way marred with religious zealots, hardened peasants, and clergy opposed to his cause. Although the Noses are able to succeed during dark times, what happens when the plague eventually ends and the world returns to “order?”

Additional performances will be presented at 8 p.m. on Friday, November 15, and Saturday, November 16.

Tickets will be available through the Tufts Online Box Office.