BHSU THEATRE DEPARTMENT TO PERFORM “PROOF”

The Black Hills State University Theatre Department will take the stage for their production of "Proof," directed by Casey Hibbert, instructor of theatre at BHSU. Performances will be held in the Black Box Theatre on the third floor of Woodburn Hall Oct. 4 and 5 at 7 p.m., Oct. 6 at 2 p.m., Oct. 11 and 12 at 7 p.m., and Oct. 13 at 2 p.m.

Written by David Auburn, "Proof" follows Catherine, a troubled young woman, who has spent years caring for her father, a brilliant but unstable mathematician. In the aftermath of her father's death, Catherine must confront her volatile emotions, the arrival of her estranged sister, Claire, and the attentions of Hal, a former student of her father's, who hopes to discover valuable work in the 103 notebooks that her father left behind.

"I chose this show because we all know someone who suffers from mental deterioration. It is an incredible story about a family and their struggle with loss, love, rivalry and deceit," Hibbert explained. "Everyone should come to see his show because this cast of students are wonderful. Our work with the BHSU Math department as well as the Psychology department helped the students to understand these characters down to their very core. This is a definite 'don't want to miss' show!"

The performance will feature BHSU students Karsen Krein as Robert, Wyatt Mansfield as Hal, Emma Meeks as Catherine, and Sarah Lopez Strongheart as Claire.

"'Proof' is brilliant! The cast, three university mathematicians and one family member, are talented, pleasant, and hard working. On stage, they are natural and believable, and, in their portrayal of the characters, truly reflect the academic world of university mathematics. They also convincingly reveal the anguish of schizophrenia that darkens their lives," said BHSU Professor Dr. John Alsup who served as principal math consultant for the show. "My wife and I, as mathematics consultants for the play, are proud to be associated in any way with a play of this quality. I have seen plays at Black Hills State University for 28 years and predict this will be one of its very best productions!"

Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and veterans, $10 for children, and $15 for non-BHSU students. BHSU students, faculty, and staff may attend for free. The show contains mature subject materials that may not be suitable for young audiences. Tickets can be purchased at the door or at BHSU.edu/BoxOffice.

For more information, contact Casey Hibbert at [email protected].