Proof

Proof Tickets

Proof returns to Broadway with Emmy winner Ayo Edebiri and Oscar nominee Don Cheadle leading this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning drama at the Booth Theatre. David Auburn's sharp, emotionally charged play follows Catherine, a brilliant young woman who has spent years caring for her mathematician father Robert after his mental health deteriorated. When a revolutionary mathematical proof surfaces after Robert's death, questions arise about its true authorship, forcing Catherine to confront her fears about genius, madness, and her own intellectual inheritance.

The story centres on Catherine's struggle to prove the groundbreaking work is hers while battling her sister's doubts and a charismatic graduate student's ambitions. Auburn weaves mathematics into an intensely human story about family, trust, and the thin line between brilliance and mental illness. Under Thomas Kail's direction (Hamilton), this revival promises fresh insights into a modern classic that audiences have praised for its wit, emotional depth, and nuanced portrayal of women in male-dominated academic spaces.

What to Expect at Proof

The production runs for 2 hours with one interval, giving you time to discuss the first act's revelations during the break. Ayo Edebiri brings her distinctive energy to Catherine, while Don Cheadle anchors the cast as her late father Robert, whose presence looms large throughout the play. Samira Wiley plays Catherine's protective sister Claire, and Jin Ha takes on Hal, the graduate student whose discovery sets the plot in motion.

The Booth Theatre provides an intimate setting perfect for this character-driven drama. With 766 seats, you'll feel close to the action as the cast explores themes of legacy, intellectual property, and family dynamics. Teresa L. Williams's set design creates the Chicago home where much of the action unfolds, while Dede Ayite's costumes and Amanda Zieve's lighting support the play's emotional journey from grief to self-discovery.

This revival marks the first major Broadway production of Proof in over two decades, offering theatre lovers a chance to see how contemporary performers interpret Auburn's celebrated characters. If you're planning other theatre outings, consider pairing your visit with other Broadway shows running during your stay in New York.

Before You Go

Proof is suitable for ages 4 and above, though the content deals with complex themes including grief, mental health, and family conflict that may be more appropriate for older children and adults. Children under 4 are not permitted in the theatre. The production contains no explicit content but does explore mature emotional territory around mental illness and intellectual pressure.

Smart casual or semi-formal attire works well for Broadway shows. Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain time as late arrivals may not be seated until a suitable break in the performance. The Booth Theatre offers wheelchair accessible seating, accessible restrooms, assistive listening devices, and welcomes service animals. Mobile phones must be switched off during the performance, and photography or recording is not permitted.

The theatre includes standard amenities like a bar, restrooms, lounge area, and coat check. Outside food isn't allowed, but you'll find plenty of dining options nearby in the Theatre District. For a complete New York theatre experience, explore other New York theatre tickets available during your visit.