BWW Reviews: PROOF, The Menier Chocolate Factory, March 20 2013

David Auburn's Pulitzer-winning drama Proof offers an interesting challenge to cast and creatives: there are some moving, hilarious moments and a collection of sophisticated, witty characters - yet the script sometimes leans stylistically towards a spy novel, with its pointed "gasp!" moments. At times the text is slightly too neatly constructed, to the point that it seems contrived, though the quality is sometimes sensitive enough that one feels frustrated by the lesser moments: Auburn is surely better than that? However, overall the book sets interesting, multi-dimensional characters in an unusual situation. The Menier's is a great production.

The story takes place on a decrepit back porch in Chicago - and Helen Goddard's detailed, naturalistic design is superb. Catherine's father, Robert, a mentally unstable mathematical genius, has recently died, leaving Catherine to determine how much of her father's precarious mentality and academic talent she has inherited. Claire, Catherine's probably well-intended but irritating big sister turns up to help rather too late, having left their father's care to Catherine; Hal, an ex-student of Robert's, somewhat gets in the way as he searches through his professor's insane scribblings, desperately trying to find a significant mathematical discovery. Hal is successful - Catherine presents him with a proof of great import, though proof of its authorship seems impossible, thus giving the play its title.

Flawed, facetious Catherine is a rich, likeable character - Mariah Gale must be the envy of many actresses. In some ways her performance was less than excellent; her vocal energy lacked variety and her physicality seemed forced at some points, and not just like a socially awkward mathematician's. That said, some of her work was immensely evocative; Gale's presence is quietly compelling and it is easy to believe she's been reduced to this suppressed boiling point by previous events. This is a performance that may become more dangerous and exciting with time.

Jamie Parker was absolutely wonderful. His Hal was endearing and hilarious - an outstanding performance and a name I shall look out for in the future. Matthew Marsh characterised Robert extremely well, avoiding clichés and creating a particularly enjoyable opening with Gale. While Emma Cunniffe did well with a challenging role, she was very removed from my idea of Claire. Had she been that bit more vapid and glamorous, but with slightly more of a sting in her tail, the dynamic between the sisters might have been more interesting, but Cuniffe portrayed this interpretation well.

Gregory Clarke's sound was most atmospheric at the beginning, but the use of music between scenes was unnecessary and distracting.

All in all, this is a very promising production. Director Polly Findlay has brought out some wonderful dynamics, particularly in Parker and Gale's dialogue. This could lead to some engrossing, original work.

Proof runs at the Menier Chocolate Factory until April 27 2013.