Higher Ground, the production company founded by former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, is making its inaugural foray into live theater by co-producing the much-anticipated Broadway revival of David Auburn's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, 'Proof.' This marks a significant expansion for the company, known for its successful ventures in film, television, and podcasting, including critically acclaimed works like 'Leave the World Behind' and 'American Factory'. The Obamas express profound enthusiasm for championing stories that delve into complex human experiences, particularly those that examine genius, uncertainty, and the legacies passed down through generations.
Obama's Higher Ground Ventures into Broadway with 'Proof' Revival
On March 11, 2026, it was announced that Higher Ground, led by former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, is stepping into the realm of Broadway production. The company is set to co-produce the revival of David Auburn's acclaimed play, 'Proof,' which features a stellar cast including Ayo Edebiri and Don Cheadle. This theatrical production is scheduled to premiere at the Booth Theatre on Broadway, with its opening night slated for April 16. The play centers on a daughter, portrayed by Edebiri, grappling with the aftermath of her brilliant mathematician father's (Cheadle) decline into mental illness and the enigmatic mathematical proof he leaves behind. Additional cast members include Samira Wiley, celebrated for her role in 'Orange Is the New Black,' and Jin Ha from 'Pachinko.' The revival will be directed by Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, renowned for his work on 'Hamilton,' who also serves as a lead producer alongside Mike Bosner. This venture signifies Higher Ground's first foray into theater, building on its established success in diverse media such as Netflix and Spotify collaborations. The company's prior projects have explored a wide array of narratives, consistently reflecting their commitment to impactful storytelling.
This move by Higher Ground into Broadway not only diversifies their impressive portfolio but also signals a potential shift in the landscape of theatrical patronage, bringing renewed attention and investment to the arts. The Obamas' involvement is a powerful endorsement of 'Proof' and its profound themes, likely attracting a broader audience to the theater. It underscores the belief that powerful stories, regardless of medium, possess the ability to provoke thought, inspire dialogue, and connect people through shared human experiences.
