33 Variations is the story of musicologist, Dr. Katherine Brandt.
Driven to discover why Beethoven composed thirty-three piano variations around a waltz by Anton Diabelli, Dr. Brandt must also face severe challenges in her own life. The play's action quickly shifts between the present and 19th century Vienna, as Brandt races to discover the motivation for Beethoven's fascination with a second-rate piece of music.
Conceived by the same author who created The Laramie Project, 33 Variations is a poignant meditation on mortality and a profound illustration of those forces which keep our love and inspiration alive. The production features an ensemble of twelve with live music performed by pianist and Shippensburg University faculty member, Dr. Margaret Lucia.