This Friday, September 20, Southern Rep and MESA Production Company present a special performance of the Tony Award-winning musical play, 33 VARIATIONS at the Contemporary Arts Center. Written by Moises Kaufman, the play is the story of a modern-day music scholar driven to solve one of classical music’s enduring riddles — the mystery behind Beethoven’s “Diabelli Variations” — even as her own health and relationships crumble.

"33 VARIATIONS" shows at the CAC through September 29.

A story about familial love, romantic desire and artistic expression, this extraordinary musical explores what it means to lose the things that define us, and what we end up gaining in their stead. It is at once an American play about passion, parenthood, and the moments of beauty that can transform a life, accompanied throughout by a concert pianist performing what is regarded as one of the greatest sets of piano variations ever written.

Although the show runs through September 29, this Friday’s performance is a special event, as the proceeds for this particular night go to support ALS Association Louisiana-Mississippi Chapter and Team Gleason. As many may know, former New Orleans Saints NFL safety, Steve Gleason currently battles the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) condition, otherwise known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, a life-changing condition from which the protagonist of 33 VARIATIONS also suffers. Like many of the Gleason family’s concerted efforts to help find a cure for ALS, the creators of 33 VARIATIONS partnered to present the work as much an educational and awareness campaign as a profound theatrical experience.

It is often rare that music and sports come together to present something truly moving outside of NFL half time shows, say. It is unfortunate when the circumstances under which these two influential forces come together is via a serious human condition. But in the case of 33 VARIATIONS, there seems to be no more perfect a union. Immediately following the September 20 performance, which begins at 7:30 p.m., there will be a reception with refreshments generously donated by Whole Foods Market, and opportunity to meet some of the cast. Tickets are $40 and available at www.southernrep.com in advance, or at the CAC box office the evening of show.

OFFBEAT TICKET GIVE-AWAY CONTEST

OffBeat is giving away [1] pair of tickets to see 33 VARIATIONS

on Friday, September 20 at 7:30pm, at the Contemporary Arts Center of New Orleans.

Simply complete the online form below to enter.

Winners will be notified via Email by 5pm on Friday, September 20.

Good Luck!