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David Auburn's award-winning words find capable vessels in Marist actors

Erin Gannon

Issue date: 10/7/04 Section: Entertainment
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This month, the Marist College Council on Theater Arts (MCCTA) brings to life David Auburn's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama Proof. A fresh and exciting way for MCCTA to kick off its 28th season, "Proof" is the story of a young woman coping with the death of a brilliant, beloved family member and trying to find sense in the ramblings of his madness while simultaneously discovering the genius within herself. Proof, a play of life, laughter and hope has something for everyone, student producer Anthony Francavilla said.

"It's a comedy, a drama and a mystery," he said.

With four very believable characters the play addresses the fine line between madness and genius and the role of women in the sciences."

This suspenseful story is turning heads; the play opened on Broadway during the 2000 season, received a Tony Award for Best Drama and had a run that lasted well over a year. A major motion picture version starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Jake Gyllenhaal is due this Christmas from Miramax. Hailed by the New York Times as "accessible and compelling as a detective story," "Proof" is nevertheless remarkably human. Auburn doesn't bog down the play with math, but rather strongly emphasizes the humanity in the loving and brittle relationships that he depicts.

MCCTA's interpretation of "Proof" is both modern and creative. Under Schneider's hand, "Proof" has undergone dynamic change and innovation, and its actors have been encouraged to explore new techniques and approaches. "We are daring the audience to invent," said director Mark Schneider, a Drama League Directing Fellow and a member of the Lincoln Center Directors Lab.

"We are challenging them to imagine with us... ["Proof"] is an organism that is shaping and forming before your eyes; closer to a dream than it is to sit-com land," he said.

Talented MCCTA veterans like Brian Apfel, Danielle DeSimone, Joe Matero and Katie O'Hagan create a theatrical world that adds up to much more than math and the zeal for discovery. Their characterizations examine notions of commitment and love and what they have to say about society when matters of trust have to be tested.

"Proof" runs Oct. 15 and 16 at 8p.m., and October 17 at 2p.m. in the Nelly Goletti Theater. Tickets are $5 for the campus community and $10 general admission; $3 student tickets are available if they are reserved before Oct. 14. "Proof" is scheduled to be quickly followed by the Mainstage Musical "The Pajama Game" on November 5-7. MCCTA concludes the fall semester with the world premiere of "Softly Sara Falls" on November 19-21. For ticket reservations and additional information visit www.mccta.com or phone the box office at (845) 575-3133. "Proof" tickets are selling quickly and reservations are strongly encouraged.
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