The Public Theatre, Lewiston/Auburn’s professional theatre, kicks off its 23rd season with the unromantic comedy “Love/Sick,” Oct. 18 – 27.

This series of funny and bittersweet love stories written by Maine playwright John Cariani, author of the popular comedy “Almost, Maine,” revisits the topic of love but this time dares to ask, “Once you find love, what the heck do you do with it, and how do you make it last?”

From a bride who wears Isotoners to keep her “cold feet” warm, to a man who loses his hearing every time the words “I love you” are spoken; this perfect show for imperfect lovers will strike a resonant chord with anyone who’s ever been in a relationship.

Director Christopher Schario says, “Almost, Maine” was a romantic comedy about falling in love, and “Love/Sick” is an un-romantic comedy about being in love, and the complications that happen once you start throwing children, careers and expectations into the mix. “Love/Sick” addresses very real relationship issues in an entertaining, thoughtful and touching way, and we expect to hear a lot of ‘I can relate to that’ sounds in our audience.”

“Love/Sick” features four actors playing various combinations of couples. Heather Dilly, William Peden, Sarah Corey and Torsten Hillhouse are all professional actors from New York with backgrounds in professional theatre, film and TV.

The set for “Love/Sick” is designed by Dan Bilodeau, lighting by Bart Garvey and costumes by Hannah Brown.

Performances are Oct 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m., with an added matinee on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $20 for adults $20, with a group rate for 10 or more of $16. Call The Public Theatre Box Office at 782-3200 or visit www.thepublictheatre.org. The Public Theatre is located at 31 Maple St. in Lewiston.