Oh Mary - A Comedic Look At History's Shadows

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Step into a world where history gets a hilarious, sometimes unsettling, makeover with "oh mary," a brand-new stage show that has audiences talking. This particular production, you know, takes a well-known historical figure and gives her a rather different kind of life story, offering a fresh, funny, and perhaps even a little bit shocking perspective on things you thought you understood. It's a dark comedy, a theatrical piece that really does challenge how we view the past, especially when it comes to the inner world of someone like Mary Todd Lincoln.

This show, "oh mary," is not your typical history lesson, not at all. It's a comedic play that invites you to consider the personal struggles and hidden desires of Mary Todd Lincoln during a truly pivotal period. It's set in those very tense weeks right before Abraham Lincoln's assassination, and it portrays Mary in a way that feels, well, quite miserable and somewhat stifled. The creative team behind it, so, clearly aimed to craft something that would make you laugh, maybe even gasp, and definitely think about historical figures in a new light.

The whole idea behind "oh mary" seems to be to peel back the layers of a historical figure, showing us a person who is, in a way, quite different from the official records. It’s a bold approach, offering a glimpse into what might have been, or what could be imagined, about her life. The play, which just opened on Broadway, has already gathered quite a bit of attention for its unique take and the way it presents these well-known characters with a truly unexpected twist.

Mary Todd Lincoln - A Character Study in "oh mary"
What Makes "oh mary" a Dark Comedy?
Who Is Cole Escola - The Mind Behind "oh mary"?
How Does "oh mary" Reimagine History?
The Stage Life of "oh mary"
What Do Critics Say About "oh mary"?
The Themes That Shape "oh mary"
The Impact of Gender-Bending in "oh mary"

Mary Todd Lincoln - A Character Study in "oh mary"

The character of Mary Todd Lincoln in "oh mary" is, you know, painted with strokes of profound unhappiness and a feeling of being completely hemmed in. This portrayal shows her as a person experiencing deep personal sorrow, feeling quite stifled in her existence, especially in the time leading up to Abraham Lincoln's assassination. The play suggests a woman who is, in some respects, longing for a different kind of life, one that is perhaps far removed from the public eye and the expectations placed upon her as the First Lady. She seems to be carrying a considerable amount of private grief and discontent.

Her life, as presented in "oh mary," is one of internal struggle. There's talk of unrequited yearning, a deep wish for something or someone that cannot be. This Mary also grapples with alcoholism, using it perhaps as a way to cope with her feelings of being trapped. And then there are her suppressed desires, those wishes and dreams she keeps hidden, which include a strong longing to return to a past love, a person she truly cared for. It paints a picture of a woman who is, actually, quite at odds with her public image, or at least the one we typically hear about.

Cole Escola, who wrote and also performs in "oh mary," brings this version of Mary Todd Lincoln to life as a boozing wannabe cabaret star. This particular detail adds a layer of unexpected humor and a touch of the absurd to her character. It suggests a person with a creative spark, a desire for expression, that is perhaps not allowed to flourish in her official role. She's depicted as discontented with her position as First Lady and, quite significantly, with her marriage to the sixteenth president. Her true wish, it seems, is to go back to her genuine affection.

The play shows Mary, played by Escola, as being kept at home by her husband, Abraham, who is brought to life by Conrad Ricamora. Abraham is portrayed as a cantankerously closeted gay man, someone who, it seems, would rather Mary do almost anything, even drink paint thinner, than go back to her true love. This relationship dynamic is, very, central to Mary's feeling of being cloistered and her overall unhappiness. It adds another dimension to the dark comedy, highlighting the personal struggles and hidden lives of these historical figures in a way that is, quite, unexpected.

Here's a brief look at how Mary Todd Lincoln is characterized in "oh mary":

Characteristic	Description in "oh mary"
Emotional State	Miserable, suffocated, discontented.
Personal Struggles	Unrequited yearning, alcoholism, suppressed desires.
Ambition	Wannabe cabaret star.
Relationship with Abraham	Cloistered by him; he is portrayed as cantankerously closeted.
Core Desire	To return to her true love.

What Makes "oh mary" a Dark Comedy?

The term "dark comedy" really does fit "oh mary" because it takes serious, even tragic, historical events and personal struggles, and then, you know, sprinkles them with a generous amount of humor. It's about finding the funny in the sad, the absurd in the serious. The play deals with Mary Todd Lincoln's deep unhappiness and the period leading up to a major historical assassination, yet it manages to make people laugh. That blend of solemnity and hilarity is, in a way, what makes it a dark comedy.

The humor in "oh mary" often comes from the sheer unexpectedness of the situations and the dialogue. It's a comedic stage play that embraces the irreverent, meaning it doesn't shy away from making fun of things that are usually treated with great seriousness. The way Mary is presented, with her boozing and her cabaret aspirations, is inherently funny because it's so far from the traditional image of a First Lady. This contrast between expectation and portrayal creates a lot of the comedic effect, making it, well, quite a unique experience.

Furthermore, the play is described as a "ribald cartoon more hysterical than historical." This suggests that it prioritizes laughter and exaggerated characterizations over strict historical accuracy. The humor is often bold, perhaps even a little shocking, which is characteristic of ribald comedy. It takes historical figures and, you know, turns them into caricatures, allowing for a kind of comedic freedom that wouldn't be possible in a more serious historical drama. The way it sheds light on the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, too, is done through this lens of dark humor, offering a fresh, albeit funny, perspective.

The comedic elements are interwoven with themes of confinement, unfulfilled wishes, and personal unhappiness. This combination means that while you are laughing, there's always an undercurrent of something more serious. The play doesn't shy away from the misery of Mary's situation, but it presents it in a way that makes you chuckle, perhaps even uncomfortably so. That, really, is the essence of a dark comedy – it makes you laugh at things that, on their own, might be quite sad or troubling. It's a tricky balance, but "oh mary" seems to pull it off, according to the descriptions.

Who Is Cole Escola - The Mind Behind "oh mary"?

Cole Escola is the American comedian who not only wrote "oh mary" but also originally performed in it, taking on the role of Mary Todd Lincoln. His comedic style is known for being wildly irreverent, meaning he often pushes boundaries and challenges conventional ideas with his humor. This particular play is a strong example of his unique voice and his willingness to take historical figures and situations and give them a completely unexpected, and often very funny, spin. He's known for his ability to embody characters in a way that is both believable and utterly absurd, which, you know, makes him a good fit for this kind of show.

Escola's work often plays with gender and historical revisionism, and "oh mary" is no exception. The fact that he, a man, portrays Mary Todd Lincoln, is a significant part of the play's approach to gender-bending. This choice is not just for comedic effect; it also allows for a different kind of exploration of the character and the themes. It's a way of looking at history through a new lens, questioning traditional portrayals and, so, offering something fresh. His comedic genius, as described by those who have seen the play, is a key reason for its success and its preposterously enjoyable nature.

His writing, too, reflects a keen sense of observation and a knack for creating situations that are both funny and thought-provoking. The dialogue in "oh mary" is likely sharp and witty, designed to highlight the absurdity of the situations and the characters' predicaments. Escola has a way of crafting narratives that are, in some respects, deeply personal yet universally relatable in their humor. This play represents his latest generation of gender-bent work, continuing a style that has earned him critical acclaim. It's clear that his vision is at the very core of what "oh mary" is all about.

How Does "oh mary" Reimagine History?

"Oh mary" really does take history and give it a complete shake-up. Instead of presenting a straightforward account of Mary Todd Lincoln's life, it offers what's called revisionist American history. This means it looks at past events and figures, and then, you know, tells their story in a completely new way, often challenging accepted narratives. In this play, the re-imagining comes from portraying Mary Todd Lincoln not as the somber figure often seen in history books, but as a miserable, suffocated woman with secret desires and a penchant for drinking, who even dreams of being a cabaret star. It's a very different kind of picture.

The play sheds unexpected light upon the assassination of Abraham Lincoln by focusing on the domestic life and personal unhappiness of his wife. By placing Mary's internal struggles and her marriage at the center, "oh mary" suggests that there might be more to these historical moments than what is commonly understood. It's not about providing new historical facts, but rather, in a way, about exploring the emotional and psychological landscape surrounding these events. The humor, too, helps in this reimagining, making the familiar feel quite unfamiliar and, you know, open to new interpretations.

The gender-bent aspect, with Cole Escola playing Mary, is another significant part of how "oh mary" reworks history. This choice, which is quite intentional, allows the play to explore themes of identity, societal roles, and personal expression in a way that traditional historical dramas might not. It pushes the boundaries of how historical figures can be presented on stage, suggesting that their stories can be told through various lenses, even ones that involve cross-gender casting. This approach is part of what makes the play a "ribald cartoon" and "more hysterical than historical," because it prioritizes a fresh, comedic perspective over strict adherence to historical records. It's a playful, yet thought-provoking, way to look back at the past.

The Stage Life of "oh mary"

The journey of "oh mary" to the stage has been, in some respects, quite notable. This comedic play, written and originally performed by American comedian Cole Escola, made its debut on Broadway. It opened on July 11, 2024, at the Lyceum Theatre. This means it's a relatively new addition to the Broadway scene, bringing its unique brand of dark comedy to a wider audience. The fact that it's on Broadway, you know, speaks to its appeal and the attention it has garnered.

The Lyceum Theatre, where "oh mary" is playing, is a well-known venue in the theater world. For a show like this, which is described as wildly irreverent and critically acclaimed, finding a home on Broadway is a significant step. It means the production has achieved a certain level of recognition and success, drawing in theatergoers who are looking for something different and entertaining. The transfer to Broadway suggests that the show had a strong run elsewhere, building up buzz before its big debut.

The live performance aspect is, very, central to "oh mary." Being a stage play, it relies on the direct interaction between the performers and the audience, and the immediate energy of a live show. Cole Escola's performance as Mary Todd Lincoln, along with Conrad Ricamora as Abraham, brings these characters to life in a way that is specific to the theater. The play's comedic timing, its visual gags, and the delivery of its witty lines are all designed for a live audience, making each performance, you know, a unique event. The experience of seeing "oh mary" live is, presumably, a big part of its charm and its ability to connect with people.

What Do Critics Say About "oh mary"?

Critics have been, you know, quite vocal about "oh mary," and their opinions seem to lean heavily toward praise. The play is described as "critically acclaimed," which means it has received a lot of positive feedback from those who review theatrical productions. This kind of reception suggests that the show is not just funny, but also well-crafted and impactful in its own particular way. When critics speak highly of a play, it often draws more people to come and see it for themselves.

One reviewer called "oh mary" "preposterously enjoyable," which is a rather strong endorsement. This phrase suggests that the play is not just good, but so good that it almost defies belief, making the experience of watching it something truly special and fun. The enjoyment comes from the show's ability to do "the impossible," thanks to the "irrepressible comic genius of playwright" Cole Escola. This highlights that Escola's unique comedic vision is at the heart of the play's success and its ability to charm audiences and critics alike. It's clear that his particular brand of humor resonates strongly.

Another description refers to "oh mary" as a "ribald cartoon more hysterical than historical." This captures the essence of its comedic approach, emphasizing that the play prioritizes laughter and exaggerated characterizations over strict historical accuracy. The term "ribald" suggests that the humor is a bit naughty or saucy, adding to its irreverent charm. The fact that it's "hysterical" means it's incredibly funny, making people laugh out loud. These descriptions, too, paint a picture of a show that is bold, entertaining, and unafraid to be different, which, you know, is probably why it's getting so much attention.

The general consensus among critics seems to be that "oh mary" is a refreshing and very funny take on a historical figure. They appreciate its dark humor, its unexpected twists, and the standout performance by Cole Escola. The play's ability to conjure Mary Todd Lincoln as discontented and longing for a different life, while also being riotously funny, is a consistent point of praise. This positive critical reception is, in some respects, a big reason why the show is gaining popularity and is considered a must-see for those who enjoy unique theatrical experiences.

The Themes That Shape "oh mary"

"Oh mary" explores several important themes that give the play its depth, even amidst all the humor. One of the main ideas is the theme of confinement or being suffocated. Mary Todd Lincoln is portrayed as feeling deeply trapped, both by her role as First Lady and by her marriage. This sense of being hemmed in, you know, is a central part of her misery and drives much of her character's actions. It's about how societal expectations and personal circumstances can make someone feel completely without freedom, which is, in a way, a very relatable human experience.

Another strong theme is unrequited yearning and suppressed desires. Mary is shown as longing for something she cannot have, specifically a return to her true love. This deep wish, kept hidden, speaks to the idea of unfulfilled dreams and the things people keep secret within themselves. Her desire to be a cabaret star, too, fits into this theme, representing a creative outlet and a personal ambition that is not allowed to flourish in her public life. It's about the hidden parts of ourselves that yearn for expression, even when they are kept under wraps. This is, in some respects, a very human element of the play.

Alcoholism is also a theme that appears in "oh mary," as Mary is depicted as someone who drinks. This suggests a coping mechanism for her unhappiness and feelings of being trapped. It highlights the ways people might try to escape their reality when they feel overwhelmed by it. This element adds to the "dark" aspect of the comedy, showing the struggles that can lie beneath the surface, even in a humorous setting. It's a subtle way of addressing the difficulties that can come with living a life that feels, you know, not entirely your own.

Finally, the play touches on the idea of revisionist history and gender identity. By portraying historical figures in unexpected ways and by having Cole Escola play Mary, "oh mary" questions traditional narratives and societal roles. It suggests that history can be looked at from different angles, and that gender can be a fluid concept in storytelling. This theme, which is quite relevant today, allows the play to shed new light on old stories, encouraging audiences to think differently about the past and about personal expression. It's about how stories can be retold to explore different truths, making it, well, quite thought-provoking.

The Impact of Gender-Bending in "oh mary"

The use of gender-bending in "oh mary" is a significant part of what makes the play so unique and, in some respects, so powerful. Cole Escola, a man, plays Mary Todd Lincoln, a historical woman. This choice is not just a comedic gimmick; it serves a deeper purpose in how the story is told and how themes are explored. It's part of what is called the "latest generation of gender-bent" performances, suggesting a growing trend in theater to challenge traditional casting and portrayals. This particular choice, you know, immediately sets a tone of playful irreverence and artistic freedom.

By having a male actor portray Mary Todd Lincoln, "oh mary" encourages the audience to look beyond conventional gender roles and expectations. It allows the play to comment on the performative nature of identity, especially for historical figures who are often confined to very specific public images. This approach can highlight the absurdity of strict gender norms and, in a way, free the character from the historical baggage of being a "First Lady." It opens up new avenues for comedic expression and emotional depth, allowing the audience to see Mary in a way that is, well, quite fresh and unexpected.

The gender-bending also contributes to the play's overall "ribald cartoon" feel. It adds to the sense that this is not a literal historical account but rather a highly stylized and exaggerated comedic interpretation. This choice allows for greater comedic license, making the humor more pointed and the characterizations more bold. It's about using artistic choices to enhance the play's message and its entertainment value. The impact is that the audience is constantly reminded that this is a reimagining, a comedic exploration, rather than a straightforward historical drama, which, you know, helps to maintain the play's unique tone.

Ultimately, the gender-bending in "oh mary" helps to shed unexpected light upon the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and the life of Mary Todd Lincoln. By presenting her through a different lens, the play can explore themes of confinement, suppressed desires, and personal unhappiness in a way that feels both universal and specific. It challenges viewers to think about history, identity, and performance in new ways, making the play not just funny but also, in some respects, quite thought-provoking. It’s a very clever way to approach a historical subject, inviting a different kind of engagement with the past.