Proof is a powerful intimate show

by Matthew Falduto

TCR - And now for something completely different. For their second show back in the refurbished space, Theatre Cedar Rapids chose the exact opposite of The Producers. Proof, by David Auburn, has no splashy musical numbers, no stunt casting, and no elaborate set. What it does have is four expert actors tackling a demanding script and bringing to life an intimate story.

The expectation of intimacy is set from the moment the audience enters the theatre. The beautifully simple set depicting the back porch of a Chicago home sits center stage, an oasis amidst the black. Sometimes it is difficult to pull off an intimate show like this on a big stage, but this design embraces the size of the stage and uses the blackness around it to emphasize the solitary life of its two principal characters and set the melancholy mood of the piece. The use of lighting to place the shadows of trees on the house was also a nice touch.

The story follows Catherine coming to terms with the death of her mathematically brilliant father and her fear that she will lose her mind as he did. The story has a number of twists and turns that I don't want to ruin, but suffice it to say the action begins with the arrival of Hal, a grad student who considers Catherine's father a legend in the field of mathematics, and Claire, Catherine's older sister who attempts to take control of Catherine's life because she believes her sister is not capable of making good decisions. What surprised me most about this show is how funny it is. Humor is key catalyst to every scene and the actors skillfully play the comedy for just the right amount of laughs, ensuring that the weightiness of the subject does not overwhelm the audience. Rob Merritt, as Hal, has especially good comic timing.

But the fact is all four actors are excellent under the skillful direction of J David Carey, a TCR veteran. As Robert, Catherine's brilliant but unstable father, Demetrios Hadjis adopts a almost too soothing voice that suggests warmth but at the same time hints that perhaps all is not right beneath the surface. In a flashback, Hadjis uses soulful eyes and a sagging mouth to show us the pain of his realization that his mind is not the sharp machine it once was. He is an actor who understands the physical tools at his disposal and uses them to excellent effect. Equally good is Jessica Link as Claire. She sashays onto stage, sweater folded over her shoulders, in complete control of herself and determined to take control of her sister, who resists at every step. When the script finally allows Link to lose it, she lashes out with a ferocity that is frightening. And then just as quickly, she takes control of herself again. Link gives us a fascinating character to reflect upon.

Rob Merritt has more tools in his arsenal than comic timing. His Hal is sweetly endearing and it's easily understandable why Catherine would fall for him. The character of Catherine is the emotional center of the play and the character the audience must identify with and care about. Rachel Korach Howell excellently captures our empathy with an affecting portrayal of a woman paralyzed with fear who often seeks refuge in biting wit. Howell is equally adept at portraying the complete vulnerability of Catherine as well as her internal strength. As each of these characters move forward in the play, the actors intelligently play off one another. This is truly an excellent ensemble.

Proof is a powerful show the deserves sold out audiences. The splashy musicals are fun, sure, but this show makes you think. This show sticks with you long after you may have forgotten the big dance number. Proof is powerful, intimate work in a beautiful theater. Don't miss it.


Matthew has a Bachelor's degree in English from the University of Iowa. He has directed, acted in, and produced theater in the Iowa City area for over twelve years. He has worked with the Iowa City Community Theatre, City Circle and Dreamwell, of which he is a founder. Two of his plays have been produced in the Iowa City area. In another brief life, he also worked as a technical writer.