Compass Rose Theater’s production of Proof is a thoughtful exploration of genius and mental health. David Auburn’s play — which won a Pulitzer Prize, a Tony Award, and a Drama Desk Award — follows a young woman struggling with her brilliant but troubled mathematician father’s legacy. Directed by Stephen Emery, it shows the power and complications of family and relationships. Sydne Lyons plays Catherine, the daughter caring for her father, with a hidden rage. Initially dismissive of Hall (Julian Borris), one of her father’s former students, and his attempts to engage her, she turns on him when she suspects him of betraying her father, demanding his backpack. She rails at her sister Claire (Beth Amann) for being away during their father’s decline, only now returning to “fix” things. She cries while discovering her father’s supposed breakthrough is in fact a setback. J.R. Hontz (Robert) and Sydne Lyons (Catherine) in ‘Proof.’ Photo by Joshua Hubbell. J.R. Hontz gives an intensity to Robert, a brilliant mathematician. He humorously complains about pasta in a discussion about dinner, then leaps up energetically upon finding a solution. Shivering while working outside in the cold, he almost manically explains to Catherine how good it feels to work again, how this is a turning point. Discovering it is not, he begins weeping. Julian Borris plays Hal, Robert’s former student now going through his papers, with great enthusiasm. He speaks in awe of Robert’s genius, wanting to see if he produced anything during his decline. He also tries to entice Catherine to watch his band perform, which he admits is “terrible” but clever. He combines a love of math and discovery with a grounding in other interests and relationships. Beth Amman brings a practicality to Catherine’s sister Claire. Asking Catherine probing questions, she slowly but firmly urges her to go back with her to New York. They have short, clipped conversations before Claire bursts into a defense of her actions and reasonings. She gives Hal a necessary document, knowing he would know what to do with it, after admonishing him for his behavior with Catherine. TOP: Beth Amann (Claire) and Julian Borris (Hal); ABOVE: Sydne Lyons (Catherine) and J.R. Hontz (Robert), in ‘Proof.’ Photos by Joshua Hubbell. Set Designer Isabel DeCarvalho creates a weathered outdoor porch with chairs and tables scattered throughout. Equations and math questions cover the walls and even the chair legs. Costume and Prop Designer Susan Flynn dresses the characters in casual outfits making each immediately recognizable. Catherine begins in pajama pants and a sweatshirt, while Claire looks slightly more businesslike in a jacket and slacks. Lighting Designer Marianne Meadows dims the lights at the end of each scene, while Sound Designer Ryan Squires throws out the sound of police sirens in one scene. Director Stephen Emery creates an intimate feel; the characters are almost like old friends whose conversations and uncertainties the audience overhears. No knowledge of math is needed. Proof is a quietly moving show, well worth watching. Running Time: Two hours, including one 15-minute intermission. Proof plays through February 9, 2025 (Friday at 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm), presented by Compass Rose Theater performing at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts (third floor), 801 Chase Street, Annapolis, MD. Tickets ($15–$55 plus fees) can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 410-980-6662.