Barack and Michelle Obama Co-Produce Broadway Revival of ‘Proof’
Higher Ground, the media company founded by Barack and Michelle Obama, is set to co-produce the Broadway revival of *Proof*. This acclaimed play by David Auburn has won both the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award. The cast will feature Ayo Edebiri and Don Cheadle, both making their Broadway debuts.
Details of the Production
Performances for *Proof* will begin on March 31 at the Booth Theatre. The opening night is scheduled for April 16. Higher Ground joins producer Mike Bosner and director Thomas Kail in this limited 16-week engagement.
Cast and Characters
- Ayo Edebiri: Plays Catherine, the daughter of mathematics professor Robert.
- Don Cheadle: Portrays Robert, who leaves behind a significant notebook after his death.
- Jin Ha and Samira Wiley: Also star in the production.
Catherine faces turmoil when a notebook revealing a crucial proof surfaces following her father’s passing. This discovery ignites debates about authorship and compels her to confront her legacy.
Higher Ground’s Impact on Theater
This marks Higher Ground’s debut in theater, expanding its repertoire which includes film, television, and podcasts. The company has received numerous accolades, including three Academy Award nominations. It won the Oscar for the documentary *American Factory* and has earned 12 Emmy nominations, winning six.
Collaboration and Vision
The Obamas expressed their pride in participating in this production, stating, “Proof is exactly the kind of story Higher Ground was built to champion.” Both Bosner and Kail have noted the significance of Higher Ground’s creative vision and commitment to storytelling.
Broadway’s Political Connections
The crossover between politics and theater continues, with past productions featuring figures such as Hillary Clinton, who co-produced the musical *Suffs* in 2024.
The revival of *Proof* promises to engage audiences with its exploration of complex themes such as brilliance, doubt, and familial legacy.
