Glenbard East students probe heavy issues in 'Proof'
With a story that delves into mental illness, trust and the death of a loved one, David Auburn's "Proof" touches on topics that may seem pretty heavy for high school students.
But that didn't stop Director Mark Kaetzer from choosing the drama for his Glenbard East High School theater students to perform.
The play begins at 7:30 p.m. nightly through Saturday, March 13, at the school, 1014 S. Main St., Lombard.
"It's really great writing; complex and sublime," Kaetzer said. "It's so realistic, almost to the point of being naturalistic."
Although the four-person cast has had a relatively short rehearsal schedule, Kaetzer has had more one-on-one time with each actor.
Senior Stephanie Khio, who portrays the lead character, Catherine, said the face time has helped the actors develop their roles.
"(Kaetzer) tells you what you need to work on," she said. "It makes you a stronger character. It's easier to learn."
Khio's character struggles with an inherited mathematical ability from her math genius father. When one of her father's graduate students discovers a mathematical proof in one of his old notebooks, Catherine claims to have been the author.
Meanwhile, Catherine's sister, Claire, wonders about her sister's stability and worries that Catherine might have inherited their father's late-life mental issues.
"Everyone thinks I am the bad girl but I have to not view myself that way," said senior Anna Segatti, who portrays Claire. "Others in the story see the logic in math. She sees the logic in life. She takes a more real-life approach versus going on emotions."
As rehearsals advanced, Kaetzer allowed the actors the freedom to develop their own characters. Because the cast is small, he offered loose suggestions when it comes to blocking - or stage placement of actors - during certain scenes, something that would not be possible with larger and more crowded scenes.
"With this, it is what feels right for you," said junior Nick Bryant, who plays Catherine's father, Robert. Bryant said that because of the small cast, it has been easier to bond with each of the actors and that has helped them on stage.
For Khio, this has meant significant time on stage with each of the characters.
"Nobody understands her dad, but they are acting like they know everything about him," she said. "She's giving up anything for her father. I love the strength of the character."
<p class="factboxheadblack">"Proof"</p>
<p class="News"><b>When:</b> 7:30 today through Saturday, March 11-13 </p>
<p class="News"><b>Where: </b>Glenbard East High School, 1014 S. Main St., Lombard</p>
<p class="News"><b>Tickets:</b> $6</p>
<p class="News"><b>Info:</b> (630) 424-6640</p>