Pulitzer Prize Winning “Proof” at Actors’ Playhouse
Proof that families are complicated
Rarely staged in South Florida, the Pulitzer-prize winning “Proof” is proof positive that families are complicated.
Yes, this play by David Auburn that debut on Broadway in 2000 is indeed about a mathematical genius and the daughter who inherited her father’s skills, but it’s so much more.
Set primarily on a Chicago suburb’s back porch, the story begins with a daughter grieving her father’s death after she, Catherine, sacrificed her youth and education to care for him during various stages of his mental illness and decline. Catherine’s own genius has been a well-kept secret, which when revealed results in self-esteem crushing doubt heaped upon her from those she trusted most. Top this off with an estranged sister who swoops in and tries to take charge because she’s so arrogant as to assume she knows what’s best.
Although the father’s (Robert) passing is the impetus for the storyline, rest assured that he remains omnipresent and a central figure in the text, primarily through a series of flashbacks.
“Proof” is less about math than it is about complex family dynamics and the consequences of the selfless decisions one sometimes makes as a caregiver; the resentment that breeds; and of course, misogyny in academia – particularly in the sciences and math. Let’s not leave that one out.
Stand out performances come from Michael McKenzie as Robert and Jessica Sanford as Catherine. Hats off to set designer Jodi Dellaventura, supporting cast members Daniel Llaca and Stephanie White, and director David Arisco.
The four-person ensemble cast is a perfect fit in the balcony theatre space of the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables and is produced by Actors’ Playhouse in its milestone 35th anniversary season. The production runs now through June 4, with performances Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Ticket prices range from $55 to $90 and can be purchased by calling (305) 444-9293 or online at www.actorsplayhouse.org.