Kate Woods to star in benefit staging of Proof at El Portal Theatre

Kate Woods will perform in a limited-run benefit production of David Auburn’s Proof at North Hollywood’s El Portal Theatre from July 23-26, with proceeds supporting the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Woods says the role of Claire, and her long working relationship with director Stuart Rogers, are intersecting with a personal season of change.

Why it matters: - The production ties a familiar Pulitzer Prize-winning play to a charity cause, with proceeds set to support the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. - The run also puts Kate Woods in a role she says is helping her navigate a personal and professional transition.

What happened: - Kate Woods will appear in David Auburn’s Proof at the historic El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood on July 23. - The benefit production will run for four shows from July 23 to July 26. - Stuart Rogers is directing the play. - Ed Begley Jr. and his daughter Hayden Begley are also part of the cast. - Woods plays Claire.

The details: - Woods said Claire is often read as the story’s antagonist, but the role carries more complexity than first appears. - Woods said returning to the play later in her career changed her perspective after earlier productions and conservatory work. - Rogers is taking a more modern approach to the material, Woods said. - Woods said Rogers has encouraged her and Hayden Begley to bring personal experience and personality to the characters. - Woods described performing the role now as a healing journey. - Woods said the experience gives her more empathy and emotional depth than she had as a younger actor. - Woods and Rogers have worked together for 14 years, and Woods said their shorthand has become almost wordless. - Woods said she effectively grew up in Rogers’ studio.

Between the lines: - The production mirrors Woods’ offstage life as she prepares for marriage and a name change from Kate Spare to Kate Woods. - Woods said Claire’s engagement in the play parallels her own wedding planning. - Woods said the play’s focus on sisters connects with her reflections on her relationship with her older sister. - Woods said becoming Kate Woods represents an “energy shift” and a move into a new phase of life and career. - The cast has grown close while keeping the beneficiary front and center, Woods said. - Woods said the charity element has helped the ensemble focus on the larger purpose instead of individual nerves or ego.

What's next: - Audiences will see Woods’ interpretation of Claire when Proof opens July 23 at El Portal Theatre. - The limited run continues through July 26. - Proceeds from the performances will go to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

The bottom line: - Woods says the role arrived at the right moment, as her personal life, her artistic work and the play’s themes line up at once.