The Broadway comedy Oh, Mary! reimagines first lady Mary Todd Lincoln as a cabaret star with an alcohol addiction. Playwright Cole Escola shares their personal connection to the show, reflecting on how dreams can be dismissed by society. After moving to New York, Escola immersed themselves in the cabaret scene, slowly crafting the play's concept over 12 years, inspired by a provocative thought about Lincoln's assassination. The show, now on Broadway with five Tony nominations, represents a significant achievement for Escola, who celebrates authenticity in their artistic journey.
"This play is about a woman with a dream that no one around her understands. A dream that the whole world is telling her is stupid and doesn't make any sense."
"After moving to New York City about 20 years ago, Escola became involved in the city's cabaret and alt comedy scenes."
"I had the thought: What if Abraham Lincoln's assassination wasn't such a bad thing for Mary Todd? And it was just an idea that tickled me so much."
"I can't believe that my big break came from doing what I wanted to do, like not compromising."
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