Parts for women include Monterone's Daughter, a "young-looking, beautiful" woman who will appear topless; five Classical Women, some of whom will appear topless and who should be "courtesan types"; two women who will wear tall platform shoes and must have a good sense of balance (and may also appear topless); and three noblewomen, who will remain fully clothed.

Finally, the company is looking for four male little people of four feet, ten inches or less to play abductors. They must have the ability to rappel down a rope.

Those chosen to appear in the production, directed by Stefan Vizioli, will be paid $15 per rehearsal or performance. Rehearsals start January 3; performances run January 21 through February 17. The cast includes Carlos Alvarez, Frank Lopardo, and Dina Kuznetsova.

Auditions take place at the Civic Opera House at 20 N. Wacker Drive from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Volunteers should arrive at least 15 minutes early to sign in.