Eastern Michigan University Theatre shows audiences how complicated life can get when family mixes with mathematics.
Directed by Meriah Sage, an associate professor and director of the Applied Drama and Theatre for the Young program at EMU, "Proof" follows 25-year-old Catherine after the death of her father and the reappearance of Claire, her previously estranged sister.
Eliot Bates, a sophomore studying theater arts at EMU, serves as one of the production's assistant stage managers.
"[Catherine] is a little troubled after her dad went crazy, and she's scared that she'll end up like him," Bates said. "They're both very into math, and Catherine's dad was revolutionary in the math field."
After Catherine's father passes away, a revelatory proof is found in his desk. Catherine, the actual author of it, spends much of the production attempting to prove her authorship to her father's peer, as well as to Claire.
"Catherine is the central figure of 'Proof.' It kind of circles around doubts, and the doubts that other people have about her," said Morgan Stillson, who plays Catherine's understudy. "She's a very strong-willed and sassy person and likes to dig her heels in. I admire that about her."
While the story explores themes of feminism and grief, it also explores complex family dynamics and how loss can change them.
Frankie Cramer, who studies theater arts, entertainment and design at EMU, plays Claire. After losing their father to an unspecified disease similar to dementia, Claire takes on more of a nurturing role towards Catherine.
"[Claire] wants to protect her sister and take care of her, while simultaneously trying to make her happy," Cramer said. "But her method goes very unappreciated."
While both the main cast and understudy run will be performing based on the same script, the two shows offer completely different performances, according to the cast and crew, with the main cast and understudy actors approaching each character with a different interpretation.
"Come into it with an open mind and understanding that everyone has a different story, and everyone is human," Cramer said.
The play will be in EMU's Sponberg Theatre Feb. 19-21, 2026, at 7 p.m., and Feb. 21 and 22 at 2 p.m. To purchase tickets online, visit EMU Theatre's website, or purchase them in person at the Judy Sturgis Hall box office. All performances are recommended for ages 13 and up.
The understudy run for "Proof" will be Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.
