Barack, Michelle Obama to produce Broadway play 'Proof'
What's the story
Former US President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama are set to make their Broadway producing debut with the upcoming revival of Proof, reported Variety. The play, written by David Auburn, is a Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winner. This production will be backed by Higher Ground, the Obamas's media company.
Cast details
Cast and storyline of the upcoming production
The upcoming production of Proof will feature Emmy winner Ayo Edebiri and Golden Globe winner Don Cheadle, who will be making their Broadway debuts. The cast also includes Samira Wiley and Jin Ha. The story revolves around Catherine (Edebiri), the daughter of renowned mathematics professor Robert (Cheadle), who discovers a groundbreaking mathematical proof in her father's notebook after his death.
Statement
'To bring this landmark play back to Broadway...'
The Obamas said in a statement, "To bring this landmark play back to Broadway with Ayo, Don, Tommy, and Mike at the helm is an extraordinary privilege, and we couldn't be more proud to be part of this production." "Proof is exactly the kind of story Higher Ground was built to champion, a play that asks profound questions about brilliance, doubt, and what we inherit from the people we love most."
Production details
Production details and other co-producers
The revival of Proof will be a 16-week limited engagement at the Booth Theatre, starting March 31 and opening on April 16. The production is also co-produced by Mike Bosner and Thomas Kail, who are excited to have Higher Ground as partners. Their statement read, "We're thrilled to welcome Higher Ground as partners on Proof and to have their creative vision and passion behind this production."
Company achievements
Higher Ground's past achievements and productions
Higher Ground has received three Academy Award nominations, winning for American Factory. The company has also won six Emmy Awards and three Grammy Awards. Higher Ground produces podcasts like Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso and IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson, as well as Audible Originals such as The Wonder of Stevie and Fela Kuti: Fear No Man.