AUBURN – Gondoliers Phil Vampatella and Roger Philippon will greet patrons to Lewiston-Auburn Community Little Theatre’s Jan. 12 to 21 presentation of “The Liar.”

Celeste Philippon is directing the classic comedy by 18th-century Italian playwright Carlo Goldoni, who critics today rank among the European theater’s greatest authors. His works include some of Italy’s most famous and best-loved plays.

Set in Venice, “The Liar” revolves around Lelio, a young Venetian, played by Donald Libby, who is incapable of telling the truth. He has fabricated an esteemed story of himself as the Marquis of Castel d’Oro.

As he weaves an intricate tale of mystery and glamour, he enchants and hoodwinks two young sisters, Rosaura and Beatrice, played by Amanda Huotari and Crystal Packard, and creates turmoil with their suitors.

As the romantic farce spins along, more “stories” come to light, entangling everyone in the play. When his lies and fibs finally force Lelio into a corner, will his glib tongue save him or will the Truth triumph?

Completing the cast are Calvin Shaw as Lelio’s servant, Arlecchino. Grady Breton plays Pantalone, the liar’s father. Mark Hazard is Dr. Balanzoni and father to the daughters. Their maid, Colombina, is CarlaRose Ricciuti.

David Moisan is Florindo, the shy, reticent lover, who is enamored with Rosaura, the older daughter. His confidant, Brighella, is Marcel Dubois. Ottavio, in love with Beatrice, is played by Joshua Harris. Mike Arsenault plays the letter carrier and also the Coachman. Adam Blais is the draper’s assistant. Debbie Bishop is the Innkeeper and serenades the lovers incognito.

Assisting Cecile Philippon is Jason Pelletier, assistant director. The production crew includes Eileen Messina, mentor; Karen Mayo, producer and lobby photos; Karen McArthur and Barbara Mathy, costume designers; Richard Martin, light design; Scott Powers, sound design; Rachel Morin, publicity; Phil Vampatella, Donald Libby, Tim Traynor; Justin Elie, set construction; Dick Rosenberg, set design; and Melody Driscoll, rehearsal prompter. Adam Blais is stage manager.

All performances are at the Great Falls Performing Arts Center, 30 Academy St., Auburn. Curtain is at 8 p.m. on Jan. 12, 13, 19, 20; 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 18; and 2 p.m. on Sunday matinees, Jan. 14 and 21.

Advance tickets are $15 and $13. Reservations may be made for tickets and dinner packages for the Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverwatch and Marco’s Italian Restaurant, Lewiston, by calling the box office at 783-0958 or accessing the theater’s Web site at www.laCLT.com.

Auburn Mayor John T. Jenkins and City Council members and administrators will meet and greet patrons who have reservations at an opening-night reception at 7, Friday, Jan. 12.