Boston, it elates me to say, is an enclave for upstart, up-and-coming, unconventional and unseen theatre.  Boston houses countless theaters and likely thrice as many theatre companies. There is an incredible amount of diversity. The plethora of production companies and the cost of Boston real estate make establishing a new company an arduous process. Funding, marketing, and casting are some of the difficulties of a fledgling organization. In their third year, The Independent Drama Society is proving their ability to wage the uphill battle. Their production of Proof, was just that – proof of their ability to mount an entertaining production.

The technical aspects of this production were executed redoubtably. An effective use of The Factory Theatre’s space, the set consisted of the backside of a house, and a porch. Lighting and sound were precise and appropriate. In particular the gobo preset of scribbled math jargon was appreciated. The intimate setting of the venue can be a hindrance, but IDS tackled the challenge head on, and it was refreshing to see the two sided seating layout.

Any quartet cast in this piece has their work cut out for them. Fulfilling the pivotal role of Catherine was Kate Daly. Daly displayed a developed craft beyond her years. She delivered a dry wit and a wide range of emotions that suited the part. Despite her engaging performance, Daly’s youth worked against her. In a space like The Factory Theater, there is little wiggle room for age appearance. It was apparent that Daly’s stature and face were those of a juvenile. Chris Larson, as the Catherine’s romantic counterpart Hal, well cast opposite Daly, gave a committed performance. In playing the Ph.D. pursuant geek, Larson gave a detailed performance including a characteristic wringing of the hands and facial twitching. His quips and quirks defined the character. Larson was most captivating in Act I. After the intermission however, it was as though Larson were painting with a different brush. The acting choices seemed to be of an indicative nature, contradictory to the subtlety with which the audience was engendered to the character in the first half of the play.

Kara Mason as Claire, Catherine’s older, patronizing sister, was the outstanding performer of the night. She played the role well. She established herself as the antagonist while still maintaining likeability. Mason brought a vulnerability to Claire’s self-possession and self-importance that could easily be lost or forgotten in pursuit of portraying Claire’s more abrasive idiosyncrasies. Mason left me wanting to see more of her work.

Overall The Independent Drama Society’s production of Proof was a success. The performance was entertaining and enjoyable. The inordinately energetic and attentive staff were present and active in the front of house operations. The cast, crew and production team brought together the elements of play making to create the illusion of this family drama. The Independent Drama Society is an insurgency of thespians that deserve to be kept track of.  I anticipate company’s progress with time as they lay their claim to a niche in the cog that is local Boston theatre.

Robert at night.   Photo by Kimberly Smith