Open auditions for Northern’s production of “The Gondoliers,” a well-known opera, will take place now through Feb. 18.

“The Gondoliers” was written by the duo William S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan in the 1800s. The opera’s plot surrounds two young princes who were switched at birth, resulting in a kingdom confused over who is king.

“It’s basically a political satire,” said Robert Englehart, a music professor and the director of the opera. “[It’s] a case of funny mistaken identity.”

Englehart said he predicts a good turnout for the auditions.

“It’s a cast of 30, so we’ll probably have 40 or 50 try out,” he said. Auditions will consist of performing a song, operatic or not, which may be chosen for the person auditioning.

Englehart said he will make the final casting decisions reagarding “The Gondoliers.” For more information or to set up an audition, call Engelhart at 227-1038. Opera performances will take place from May 9 – 11.