A genderqueer Latino/a tries to find a balance between their two homes of Buenos Aires and Los Angeles and achieve the goal of meeting their favorite soccer star.

That is the gist of the award-winning “¡Ser!,” a comedic theater production that features live music.

The Feb. 13 show is free to Cal Poly Pomona students, faculty and staff, thanks to the co-sponsorship of the Department of Theatre & New Dance, the PRIDE Center and the Department of Ethnic & Women’s Studies.

“¡Ser!” is a work of musical theatre written and performed by Karen Anzoategui based on their own life experiences in the LGBTQ community and examining the dualistic nature of their ethnic and cultural background. The play features musician James Brown in the role of Anzoategui’s father, as well as the Latin-based musical talents of CAVA, among others.

“The play is about a young woman from immigrant parents who discovers and explores her sexual identity,” says Theatre & New Dance Department chair Bernardo Solano. “I think that’s subject matter that many Cal Poly Pomona students can identify with. And if a student who sees the play doesn’t directly identify with the issues, they almost certainly know someone who does.”

The play’s narrative is relatable to more than just the LGBTQ community. It revolves around the cultural struggles faced by Latin American immigrants and life in Los Angeles, and also appeals to soccer fans and anyone who has ever dreamed of meeting their idol.

“This is a funny, poignant and rocking piece of theatre,” said Solano. “It will affirm lots of truths for the Latino and LGBTQ communities as well as illuminate so much for audiences in general.”

The show is in the Studio Theatre in Bldg. 25 at 7 p.m. A reception will follow.