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Lyric Opera Looking For Silent Extras

CHICAGO (CBS) -- If you have the urge to be onstage but not say anything, the Lyric Opera is in search of extras.

The celebrated opera company is looking for extras to play henchmen, soldiers, gravediggers and noblewomen.
The Lyric Opera says auditions will start in September, and will run on certain dates throughout the beginning of next year.

The extras will appear take on roles ranging from villagers in Mozart's "The Magic Flute" to Ethiopian prisoners in Verdi's "Aida."

Auditions take place at the Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Dr.

Extras, or supernumeraries, are unpaid volunteers. They receive $15 per rehearsal and performance to pay for transportation costs. Children who play extras can apply for grants to pay for transportation costs.

The opera says attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory.

The Lyric made an announcement recently about its efforts to develop for performers who want to be both seen and heard.

Led by creative consultant and famed soprano Renee Fleming, the Lyric announced last week that it will begin a partnership with the Merit School of Music, 38 S. Peoria St., for an expansion of the vocal program at the school, the Chicago Tribune reported.

As part of the partnership, Merit School students may attend Lyric performances, rehearsals and pre-curtain presentations, and will attend a recital series being put on by the Lyric's Ryan Center professional development program, the Tribune reported.

(TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS Radio and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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