[NEohioPAL] Review of Proof: Christine Howey in Rave and Pan

[Martin Friedman]

Sunday, September 23, 2012
 
Proof, Lakeland Civic Theatreby Christine Howey raveandpan.com



(Mitchell Fields as Robert and Elizabeth Conway as Catherine)



Just
as it’s impossible for us to realize we’re on a planet that is spinning at 1000
miles per hour, while we’re standing still, it’s often difficult for a mentally
imbalanced person to recognize their condition.

That
is only one of the myriad concepts that arise in Proof by David Auburn, a
fascinating play being given a superb production at the Lakeland Civic Theatre.
Revolving around a father and daughter, both of whom are gifted but troubled
mathematicians, the play peels back layers of both science and humanity—but in
a continually entertaining and deeply affecting way.

Auburn’s
skill as a playwright is shown from the first scene, which ends with a
surprising revelation. And that information fuels the rest of the play, a story
that involves heady discussions of mathematical proofs and proof of
authorship—not to mention professional ethics and familial trust.

The
father, Robert, was a renowned professor of math at the University of Chicago,
but his latter days are dogged by a mental decline. His daughter Catherine is
also a math whiz but fears she may also share her father’s mental difficulties
since she is often depressed and confrontational.

When
an astounding mathematical proof is found, Catherine claims authorship but her
sister Claire doubts it and Hal, one of Robert’s students, also has his doubts.
The interweaving of these four characters is masterfully handled by playwright
Auburn, and delivered with professional assurance under the sensitive direction of Martin
Friedman.

As
Hal, Aaron Elersich is completely natural and affecting as the nerdy Hal,
nurturing his growing interest in Catherine while clinging to his inbred
skepticism as a scientist. Although a bit too brittle at first, Laurel Hoffman
eases effectively into the difficult role of Claire, a balanced woman with a
successful life who feels so apart from her sibling and her dad.

Mitchell
Fields is brilliant as Robert, displaying both warmth and the core resolve that
drive him in his careet. His later scene when he realizes how far his mental
capabilities have deteriorated is quietly, profoundly devastating.

And
major kudos must go to Elizabeth Conway, who brews up a rich portrayal as
Catherine. Walking many fine lines while never overstepping or going for the
easy choice, Conway is utterly convincing as this troubled woman endowed with a
genius mind. Plus, she’s funny at times, giving the play a much-needed breath of
relief now and then.

Proof won a Pulitzer and a Tony for good reason. And this production displays
all the reasons why it’s an experience not to be missed.

Proof
Through
October 7 at the Lakeland Civic Theatre,
Lakeland
Community College, Rt. 306 and I-90, Kirtland, 440-525-7134
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