The Axiom of Choice
A Theatrical Proof of Mathematics and Free Will
Written and Directed by Marcus du Sautoy. Co-Directed by Lu Descourtier. Produced by Claire Gilbert Ltd. Presented by Notre Dame's College of Science.
The Axiom of Choice is a ground-breaking play by Marcus du Sautoy, Charles Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at Oxford University, that dramatizes the life of French mathematician André Weil. The play is a high-stakes narrative about choice: Weil must decide whether to follow the logical path of a mathematician or the unpredictable path of a human being caught in the gears of WWII.
Kate Biberdorf, Professor for Public Understanding of Science in Notre Dame’s College of Science, hosts du Sautoy and a professional troupe of actors for a five-day residency and performance of the play at the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center.
Credits
Marcus du Sautoy
Marcus du Sautoy is a world-renowned communicator and the Charles Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at Oxford. His research uses classical tools from number theory to explore the mathematics of symmetry. A recipient of the Michael Faraday Prize for excellence in communicating science, he has written several popular books, hosted programs on BBC, and worked extensively with arts organisations from The Royal Opera House to the Glastonbury Festival to bring science alive for the public. He has collaborated with the legendary theatre company Complicité for 20 years, delivering productions in the UK, India, and Portugal.
Additional Production Credits
The Axiom of Choice ensemble are four UK-based actors who have performed the play in the UK, India and Portugal at over 15 venues. For the University of Notre Dame production, roles are performed by Shipra Jain, Clive Mendus, Joseph Prowen, TJ Sulaiman.
- Set and Costume Design by Bronwen Herdman
- Lighting Design by Rachel Sampley
- Sound Design by Nick Gilbert
- Movement Direction by Shane Shambhu
- Dance support by Ekleido
Kate Biberdorf and Notre Dame’s College of Science
Kate Biberdorf is a chemist, science entertainer, and professor in Notre Dame’s College of Science. Through her theatrical and hands-on approach to teaching, Dr. Biberdorf is breaking down the image of the stereotypical scientist while reaching students who might otherwise be intimidated by science.
She is the author of multiple bestselling fiction and nonfiction books and has been profiled in the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times. Biberdorf has appeared on The Today Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, NBC Nightly News, The Rachael Ray Show, Star Talk with Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Late Night with Stephen Colbert.
Guided by common human curiosity and Catholic character, the College of Science undertakes its mission to prepare the scientific leaders of tomorrow, inspiring them to seek greater understanding of the natural world, to translate that knowledge into human improvement, and to share discoveries in ways that make a difference in society.
Kate the Chemist Discover the College of Science
Funding & Support
This is a partner program of the 2027 Notre Dame Arts Biennial, supported with funding from the Notre Dame Arts Initiative.
This project is also made possible with funding from the College of Science. Venue and staffing support provided by DeBartolo Performing Arts Center.
Images & Media
Photos and video courtesy of Marcus du Sautoy.