“Out of this curious quartet, Auburn creates emotionally and intellectually enveloping music.”
PLAYCLOSED
Proof
Opened Oct 24, 2000 · Closed Jan 5, 2003 · Ran for 2 years, 3 months
8 Rave
2 Positive
Critics' Take
Critics praise Auburn's compelling mystery-drama for its accessible storytelling and Mary-Louise Parker's thrilling performance, though some dismiss it as a highbrow soap opera with superficial nods to mathematics.
This show has closed. Tickets are no longer available.
Critic Scorecard
10 reviews8 Rave
2 Positive
Sort:
“It's been a long time since Broadway has seen the debut of a new play the quality of Proof, and even longer since it has welcomed the debut of a new playwright as talented and promising as David Auburn.”
Talkin' Broadway StaffFull Review
“I wish I could tell you why that play is among the best of the season—but believe me, it truly is.”
“Together, Bryggman and Parker hit enough emotional highs to sustain a dozen lesser plays.”
Audience Scorecard
99 audience reviews
A+
Loving It
Awards Scorecard
2000-01 season87
Decorated
Won Best Play + 2 more
Pulitzer Prize for Drama Winner (2001)
Lortel Award:2 wins / 5 nomsDrama Desk:2 winsDrama League:1 win / 2 nomsOuter Critics:4 noms
Box Office Scorecard
source · Broadway League, publicAll Time
Frequently Asked Questions
What do critics say about Proof?
Critics praise Auburn's compelling mystery-drama for its accessible storytelling and Mary-Louise Parker's thrilling performance, though some dismiss it as a highbrow soap opera with superficial nods to mathematics. (CriticScore 87/100 from 10 reviews.)
Is Proof worth seeing?
Absolutely — Proof is one of the season's most acclaimed shows, earning a rare 87/100 from 10 critics. Don't miss it.
What is the CriticScore for Proof?
Proof has a CriticScore of 87/100 based on 10 professional reviews. This is considered a "Critical Gold" show.
Is Proof still running on Broadway?
No, Proof has closed. It played at Walter Kerr Theatre and closed on January 5, 2003.
Theater Scorecard
Typical VenueThe Walter Kerr Theatre offers excellent sightlines and sound quality, making it a great venue for intimate productions. However, the comfort level is below average due to limited legroom and seat width, though the theater's Italian Renaissance-inspired decor adds to its charm.
Original Broadway Cast
- Mary-Louise ParkerCatherineWinner: Actress (Play)
- Larry BryggmanRobertNom: Featured Actor (Play)
- Johanna DayClaireNom: Featured Actress (Play)
- Ben ShenkmanHalNom: Featured Actor (Play)
Notable Replacements
- Len CariouRobert
- Kate Jennings GrantClaire
- Josh HamiltonHal
- Neil Patrick HarrisHalBroadway debut
- Anne HecheCatherineBroadway debut
- Seana KofoedClaire
- Stephen KunkenHal
- Jennifer Jason LeighCatherine
Creative Team
- David AuburnPlaywright
- Daniel SullivanDirector
Quick Facts
- CriticScore
- 87/100 (10 reviews)
- Status
- Closed
- Opened
- Oct 24, 2000
- Closed
- Jan 5, 2003
- Run Length
- 2 years, 3 months
- Theater
- Walter Kerr Theatre
- Data Last Updated
- October 7, 2026
