Cole Escola, a vibrant fixture in the comedy scene, is making a sensational Broadway debut with the play “Oh, Mary!” portraying none other than Mary Todd Lincoln. This outlandish comedy, devoid of historical accuracy, paints Lincoln as a cabaret star amidst the backdrop of the Civil War, completely detached from political and military realities.
Escola’s portrayal of Lincoln is far from traditional, showcasing a hilarious yet endearing version of the former First Lady who is oblivious to everything except her ambition to star in her own show. The play, which initially captivated audiences off-Broadway, is set to begin previews on Broadway at the Lyceum Theatre, running until September 15. Escola’s performance and the unique premise of the play have already garnered significant attention, earning awards and nominations from the Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk, and Theatre World.
‘Oh, Mary!’s Cole Escola is bringing ‘the gay shadows’ to Broadway https://t.co/zcdyLeJrSU
— Out Magazine (@outmagazine) June 24, 2024
In an interview, Escola shared their mixed emotions about the play’s move to a larger stage, expressing both excitement and apprehension about maintaining the show’s intimate charm in a bigger venue. The transition involves minimal changes to the set design, with the stage only expanding by five feet. Escola humorously contemplates the challenges of adjusting their performance to a larger space, including the potential need to amplify their act.
Escola’s depiction of Mary Todd Lincoln is not intended to be a drag performance but rather an imaginative and exaggerated interpretation of her character. The play’s humor comes not from Escola’s portrayal as a woman but from the absurdity and anachronisms of the script. Escola finds joy in the physical comedy that the role’s elaborate costumes, such as a cumbersome hoop skirt, bring to the stage.
Cole Escola talks to The Daily Beast about being “paralyzed with fear” as their hilarious Mary Todd Lincoln play moves to Broadway.https://t.co/gW6MQktE6m
— The Daily Beast (@thedailybeast) June 24, 2024
“Oh, Mary!” has attracted a diverse audience, from initial queer fans reveling in its camp and wit to a broader audience drawn by glowing reviews and word of mouth. The play’s success off-Broadway was a pleasant surprise for Escola, who cherishes the creative fulfillment it brought, aligning closely with their original vision.
Despite the accolades and the spotlight, Escola remains grounded, reflecting on the transient nature of fame and the ongoing challenge of balancing public attention with personal authenticity. They recall the evolution of their career, from humble beginnings in Oregon to becoming a notable figure in New York’s theatre scene, always driven by a passion for storytelling and performance.
I had no idea who Cole Escola was as I’m not a big broadway person but I knew he looked familiar.
After googling, this is where I knew him from! I loved this show! pic.twitter.com/kuFDhtVBE2
— So Good We Named It! (@SoGoodWeNamedlt) June 21, 2024
Escola’s journey is not just about personal achievement but also about the impact of their work on audiences. They hope “Oh, Mary!” offers a refreshing comedic experience that allows viewers to laugh and momentarily escape from heavier themes. As Escola continues to navigate their career, they look forward to exploring more opportunities in theater, eager to write and potentially create roles for other talented actors.
Overall, “Oh, Mary!” stands as a testament to Escola’s unique voice in the theatre world—a blend of irreverent humor and heartfelt storytelling that challenges conventional narratives while celebrating the quirks of its characters.
Key Points:
i. Cole Escola stars in the Broadway play “Oh, Mary!” portraying Mary Todd Lincoln as a whimsical cabaret star, diverging sharply from historical accuracy.
ii. The play, initially an off-Broadway hit, has moved to Broadway with previews starting at the Lyceum Theatre, showcasing Escola’s unique comedic flair.
iii. Escola’s performance, which has garnered critical acclaim and several theater awards, plays with physical comedy and satirical content, largely revolving around Lincoln’s exaggerated and fictional escapades.
iv. Despite concerns about maintaining the intimate charm of the smaller venue, Escola is optimistic about adapting the play to a larger Broadway stage while preserving its comedic impact.
v. “Oh, Mary!” has successfully attracted a diverse audience, turning it into a phenomenon that blends camp humor with broader, more accessible comedy, reflecting Escola’s significant creative influence in the theater world.
Lap Fu Ip – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
