On a day typically filled with witty remarks, Cole Escola found themselves embracing sincerity as they celebrated their nomination for a Tony Award. The actor and playwright received recognition for their captivating portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln in the play Oh, Mary!, a production they also penned, which garnered a total of five nominations, including a nod for Best Play.
The play, which originated Off-Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in February 2024, tells a unique story that began in 2009 with Escola’s thought-provoking premise: “What if Abe’s assassination wasn’t such a bad thing for Mary Todd Lincoln?” This creative exploration reimagines Mary Todd Lincoln as a vibrant wannabe cabaret singer, complete with ringlet curls and a penchant for drinking.
After two successful extensions, Oh, Mary! made its way to Broadway in July 2024, where it continues to attract audiences. Escola originally took a brief hiatus from the role, allowing actors Betty Gilpin and Tituss Burgess to step in as Mary Todd Lincoln. However, Escola returned to the stage on April 8, 2024, to resume their celebrated performance.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Escola shared their mixed emotions following the nominations. “Somewhere between overwhelmingly emotional and nothing,” they expressed, acknowledging the whirlwind of feelings while preparing for two shows that evening. “My head’s sort of spinning,” they added, highlighting the challenge of processing such significant recognition.
Reflecting on the journey from Off-Broadway to Broadway, Escola recalled their initial uncertainties about the audience’s reception. “It makes me want to cry just thinking about us making our show in the rehearsal room at La MaMa, just hoping it would land with our audience,” they reminisced. The overwhelming success has far exceeded their expectations, transforming initial hopes for a two-week extension into a celebrated Broadway production.
Escola admitted to feeling nervous about reprising the role after their break. “I was scared it wouldn’t be there anymore,” they confessed. Yet, upon returning, they found that the character of Mary Todd Lincoln came back to them effortlessly. “She just came flying out of me,” Escola recalled, expressing relief at rediscovering the role.
For the first time, Escola had the opportunity to watch their own show from the audience. “It was like magic,” they described, marveling at the lighting design and the overall production. “I think all I really learned was that I love it,” they added, emphasizing their pride in the collaborative effort behind Oh, Mary!.
As they contemplate the future of the production, Escola expressed hope for broader recognition, including potential adaptations into film. “I really, really, really hope so,” they said, while also humorously questioning if audiences might be growing tired of the story. “I’m glad the Tony nominating committee is not sick of me or this play,” they noted, highlighting the play's continued resonance.
Escola concluded the conversation with heartfelt appreciation for the American theater community. “I love the American theater,” they stated, reaffirming their passion for the art form. This candid discussion with Escola underscores the excitement and authenticity surrounding their experience with Oh, Mary! and its journey in the theater world.
