Former U.S. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have unveiled a significant new career move, stepping into the world of Broadway as co-producers. Their media company, Higher Ground, will collaborate on the Broadway revival of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "Proof," marking the couple's first foray into theater production.
A Star-Studded Cast and Creative Team
The production boasts an impressive lineup, with Don Cheadle and Ayo Edebiri set to make their Broadway debuts in leading roles. They will be joined by Jin Ha from "Pachinko" and Samira Wiley of "Orange Is the New Black" fame. The revival will be directed by Tony Award-winner Thomas Kail, who will also produce alongside Mike Bosner and the Obamas.
Obamas Express Enthusiasm for the Project
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Obamas shared their excitement about the venture. "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," they said. They emphasized that "Proof" aligns perfectly with Higher Ground's mission, describing it as a story that "asks profound questions about brilliance, doubt, and what we inherit from the people we love most."
Mike Bosner and Thomas Kail echoed this sentiment, stating, "We're thrilled to welcome Higher Ground as partners on 'Proof' and to have their creative vision and passion behind this production. Their impeccable taste in storytelling and community-building makes them ideal collaborators for this revival."
Exploring Themes of Genius and Legacy
"Proof," originally written by David Auburn, delves into complex themes such as genius, mental illness, and familial love. The narrative centers on Catherine, the daughter of a math professor, who discovers a notebook with groundbreaking mathematical findings after her father's death. The play, which won a Tony Award and was adapted into a film starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Anthony Hopkins, explores her relationships with her sister Claire and her father's former student Hal.
Higher Ground's Expanding Portfolio
This theater production represents a new direction for Higher Ground, which has previously focused on film, television, and podcasts. Since partnering with Netflix in 2018, the company has produced over a dozen projects, including the Oscar-winning documentary "American Factory," the sci-fi thriller "Leave the World Behind," Michelle Obama's documentary "Becoming," and the Oscar-nominated film "Rustin." Their podcast network features shows like "IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson" and "Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso."
Higher Ground's track record includes three Academy Award nominations, six Emmy wins from twelve nominations, and two Grammy wins from three nominations, showcasing their commitment to impactful storytelling across media.
Production Details and Schedule
The limited 16-week run of "Proof" will begin previews at the Booth Theatre in New York City on March 31, with opening night scheduled for April 16. This revival comes amid other Obama-related theatrical ventures, such as "44 the Obama Musical," a spoof of the Obama presidency currently playing in Chicago.
The Obamas' involvement in "Proof" not only highlights their ongoing influence in the arts but also underscores their dedication to projects that provoke thought and discussion, further cementing Higher Ground's reputation as a powerhouse in creative media.
