The Union University Theatre will present “The School for Scandal” March 19-23 in the W.D. Powell Theatre.

The play was written by Richard Brinsely Sheridan in 1777 and is a witty satire targeting the upper class of London, said John Klonowski, associate professor of theater.

“This comedy of manners ingeniously uses witty banter to spread scandal through invented gossip, which inevitably reveals the hypocrisy and shallowness of the characters,” he said. “However, decency and fidelity prevail, and those who would scheme to ruin others are exposed at last.”

Klonowski said because the style and situation of the characters are reminiscent of the popular BBC series, “Downton Abbey,” the Union Theatre decided to move the time period of the production from 1777 to 1914, which was the setting of the first season of the BBC show.

“This family-friendly show is a certain crowd-pleaser that will have you laughing and shaking your head at all of the nonsense that can ensue from gossip,” he said.

The play is directed by Kristin Klonowski, adjunct instructor of theater, and runtime is approximately one and a half hours with an intermission.

Seating per show is limited to 50 — patrons are advised to purchase tickets in advance, and masks will be required. Show times are 7:30 p.m. March 19-20 and 22-23, with matinee shows at 2:30 p.m. March 20-21. Tickets are $7 for general admission, $5 for senior citizens and $3 for students and may be purchased at uu.edu/theatre or by calling the box office at (731) 661-5105.