Talking to the Director of "Proof"

Marshall University's latest show (which is on stage the next two weekends) is Proof.

We did an e-interview with the director, my pal Jack Cirillo, and here's what he had to say:


Q: For those who haven't seen it, what is the story behind Proof?

Jack: The discovery of a groundbreaking formula sets off a compelling mystery in this Pulitzer prize-winning drama about the razor-thin line between genius and mental illness. Catherine sacrificed her education in order to care for her aging father, a brilliant but unstable mathematician. Gifted and highly emotional, the arrival of an unexpected visitor forces her to confront the troubling question: How much of her father’s madness – or genius – will she inherit?

Q: What makes Proof a great show?

Jack: Proof deals with a lot of complex human emotions: love, jealousy, despair, doubt, grief and passion. The relationships are also very multi-dmensional: sibling rivalry, parent and child, and a couple spotlighted at the very start of a serious relationship. This is a contemporary drama, set in present day Chicago. The play is very “slice of life” and very cinematic. The plot is central to this piece, so audiences will be carried away right from the start. It has many of the elements that people enjoy in a good drama — conflict, love, mystery and the possibility of a happy ending.

Q: You're obviously a fan of this play.

Jack: Proof is an outstanding play. It is modeled after the “Well Made Plays” of the 19th century, which were created to guarantee audience satisfaction—literally! There are lots of surprises, twists and turns in the plot and it will definitely keep the audience guessing. The set, designed by James Morris-Smith is breathtaking. This is truly a great night in the theatre!


Thanks, Jack! Proof runs at 8 p.m. on Feb. 15 – 18 and Feb. 23 – 25 in the Francis-Booth Experimental Theatre, which is in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center at Marshall University.