Overview of the Play

‘Oh, Mary!’ has emerged as one of Broadway’s most unexpected offerings this season. Written by and starring Cole Escola, this musical presents an exaggerated, fictional glimpse of Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of former President Abraham Lincoln. With a comedic flair, the play showcases Mary’s aspirations of becoming a cabaret star while her husband grapples with the challenges posed by the Civil War.

Key Themes and Humor

The narrative brings forth a series of humorous exchanges as Mary insists on pursuing her dreams despite the tumultuous backdrop of war. For instance, when Abraham Lincoln expresses concern over her ambitions, Mary responds with, “How would it look? Sensational!!” This light-hearted banter showcases the tension between her personal ambitions and the national crisis.

A Journey from Idea to Broadway

Escola’s concept for the play originated as far back as 2009. He envisioned a scenario where Mary’s life takes an unexpected turn following Lincoln’s assassination, allowing her to embrace new opportunities. However, Escola hesitated for years, fearing that bringing such an imaginative idea to life might lead to disappointment.

Despite this, Escola ultimately realized his vision, and ‘Oh, Mary!’ debuted to critical acclaim. Its success has been remarkable, reflected in its record-breaking box office performance and five Tony nominations, with Escola himself nominated for both Best Play and Best Actor.

Escola’s Background

Raised in rural Oregon, Escola faced numerous challenges, including a difficult childhood marked by financial hardships and family struggles. He has openly shared that his experiences with his father had a profound impact on his life, ultimately shaping his comedic identity and passion for storytelling.

Escola’s formative years included spending time with his grandmother, who played a pivotal role in nurturing his interest in narratives and creativity. This early exposure laid the groundwork for his future artistic pursuits.

Personal Insights and Identities

In discussions about identity, Escola identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, expressing a lifelong feeling of not fitting neatly into traditional gender categories. Their distinct comedic style has always focused on authenticity, prioritizing personal humor that resonates with their audience.

Path to Success

After pursuing community theater, Escola made their way to New York, driven by a dream to succeed in the performing arts. Despite initial struggles, including financial barriers in their education, they found creative outlets through online platforms, gaining recognition for their unique comedic voice.

Performances on shows like ‘At Home with Amy Sedaris’ further solidified their reputation in the industry, setting the stage for the success of ‘Oh, Mary!’.

Conclusion

‘Oh, Mary!’ is not just a musical; it represents a bold step into uncharted territory, showcasing the blend of historical context with contemporary comedic elements. Escola’s journey from a small-town upbringing to a Broadway sensation highlights the power of creativity and resilience.