The last of Shakespeare’s great comedies, the classic will be performed Nov. 17-21 at 8 p.m. nightly plus a 3 p.m. matinee on Nov. 21. All performances are at The Playhouse, 1911 S. Third St.

Characters in Measure for Measure are caught in an age-old scheme involving abuse of power, as those in authority attempt to impose sex for political favors.

No one in the play is perfect, said play director Rinda Frye, an associate professor and director of graduate studies.

During the course of action we learn that authority is dangerous unless it is tempered by mercy.

Frye said she found that the issue of justice and authority is still very timely and similar to what someone could read in a modern newspaper.

I was more and more drawn to the common people in the play, Frye said. Shakespeare sees them as amusing and portrays them as morally flawed, yet as deeply human as you and I.

Show tickets are $12 for the general public, $10 for faculty and staff, and $8 for students and senior citizens. For tickets and information, call 502-852-6814 or visit http://louisville.edu/theatrearts/.