New Village Arts’ Kristianne Kurner and Talented Cast Bring 33 Variations to Life

“A potent family drama wrapped inside a fascinating historical mystery” is one of the many ways 33 Variations, the Tony Award-nominated play by Moises Kaufman, has been described. New Village Arts Co-founder and Executive Artistic Director Kristianne Kurner will direct the Carlsbad Playreaders' reading on Monday, Aug. 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Carlsbad City Library’s Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium.

Kaufman’s 33 Variations highlights the parallels between contemporary musicologist Katherine Brandt and musical genius Beethoven, as Katherine obsessively researches Beethoven’s motives to compose 33 variations of a mediocre waltz. “If you have ever wondered about the mysteries of love and life and sorrow and joy, you will find this production speaks to you on a personal level,” Examiner.com cheered about 33 Variations. 

Director Kurner recently shared insight on what drew her to this “gorgeous, creative play.”  

What attracted you to 33 Variations?  
“Pat Hansen (Carlsbad Playreaders co-founder) shared the script with me because it's one of her favorite plays. I'd read about it before, but had never read the script. I think it is a creative, gorgeous play about family, passion, art and work – all subjects that resonate very highly for me. I love the parallels between Dr. Katherine Brandt in the present and Beethoven in the past. And of course, you can't resist the amazing music by Beethoven that is woven throughout the play.  I'm very excited to work with Tim McKnight, who will be playing piano for the reading, and the incredible cast that we have assembled, including Robin Christ, Samantha Ginn, Evan Kendig, Annie Hinton, Daren Scott, Justin Lang and Tyler Ruebensaal.”

What can audiences look forward to with the Carlsbad Playreaders' production?
“They get to see and hear a beautiful play with the finest music in the world! That's a pretty good evening out, I think. Audiences will be moved, they will laugh, they will fall in love with the characters and much more.  The actors we have assembled for this project are some of the best in San Diego. For the music, the Schulman Auditorium is bringing out the grand piano – which is always a treat. And the story is beautifully told, and will stay with the audience long after they have left the theatre.”

Anything else that you'd like to share?
“Haven't you always wondered what Beethoven was like? Actors Equity Member and New Village Arts Ensemble Member Daren Scott will be bringing the legend to life. It's very funny and incredibly moving (audiences might want to bring tissues). I can't wait to share it with everyone!”

Tickets for the reading are available at Schulman Auditorium the evening of Aug. 19 for a donation of $5 for adults and $1 for students. The Schulman Auditorium is located at Carlsbad City Library on 1775 Dove Lane. For more information about 33 Variations and Carlsbad Playreaders, visit www.carlsbadplayreaders.org or call 760-602-2012.