Mary Todd Lincoln Reimagined as Cabaret Star in London Show

A new theatrical production, Oh, Mary!, will open in London’s West End next week, reimagining Mary Todd Lincoln as a flamboyant, alcoholic figure more focused on becoming a cabaret star than on the Civil War. This bold portrayal of the former first lady comes after the show’s successful run in New York, where it was hailed as “one of the best comedies in years.”

The one-act play, running for 80 minutes, has already garnered acclaim, including Tony Awards for Cole Escola, who wrote and stars in the show, marking them as the first non-binary performer to receive such an honor. The production also won a Tony for Sam Pinkleton, its director. The New York cast attracted a high-profile audience, including Steven Spielberg, Tony Kushner, and Sally Field, all of whom have connections to the 2012 film Lincoln.

The play’s premise raises intriguing questions about Mary Todd Lincoln’s character. In a twist of fate, Escola’s version suggests that Mary, instead of mourning her husband’s impending assassination, is more invested in her own aspirations. “What if Abe’s assassination wasn’t such a bad thing for Mary?” Escola pondered in an email that sparked the creation of this irreverent piece. Escola themselves have emphasized that while the play is comedic, it should not be taken as a factual retelling of Mary’s life.

The role of Mary in the London production will now be taken on by actor Mason Alexander Park, who expressed a deep connection to the character. Park noted that Mary’s struggle to be recognized and validated resonates with many people. “We all want to be seen and loved,” they said, reflecting on the universal themes presented in the play.

This unique portrayal has drawn attention from the academic world as well. Catherine Clinton, a historian and author of the biography Mrs Lincoln: A Life, commented on the importance of fresh perspectives on historical figures. “Anything that prompts a new look at Mary Lincoln gets my endorsement,” she stated. Clinton described the production as a “full-frontal pop cultural satire,” blending elements of history with humor and modern cultural references.

The reception of Oh, Mary! in London will be pivotal in determining whether it achieves the same cultural phenomenon status as the groundbreaking musical Hamilton. Critics suggest that British audiences, familiar with American narratives, may embrace this unique take on a historical figure. Theatre critic Michael Billington remarked on the British fascination with American presidential stories, noting that the culture is steeped in Americana.

As the production approaches its London debut, there are diverse opinions on its significance. Nancy Durrant, co-host of the London Theatre Review podcast, compared it to other comedic performances and highlighted its absurdity as a key factor in its success. “There’s a strong appetite for well-crafted, tightly written daftness,” she noted, suggesting that the current global climate may have influenced audience preferences.

The need for laughter in challenging times is not lost on Park, who emphasized the joy of shared theatrical experiences. “The world is quite literally crumbling around us. But it felt like everyone collectively relaxed watching this,” they said.

The resurgence of interest in Mary Todd Lincoln is not solely due to this production. Another contemporary play, Mrs President, debuted earlier this year in London, illustrating the growing narrative around her life. Clinton pointed out that Mary endured harsh criticism during her time as first lady, a trend that persisted until the era of Hillary Clinton. “She remains unsinkable,” Clinton added.

As Escola reflects on their journey, they acknowledge a fascination with first ladies that began in childhood. Their vision for Oh, Mary! has not only provided entertainment but also increased visibility for non-binary and transgender performers in theatre. “Cole winning the Tony was such a remarkable moment,” Park concluded, emphasizing the importance of representation in the arts. “Diversity creates better art,” they affirmed, encapsulating the production’s broader impact.

The anticipation for Oh, Mary! reflects a cultural shift towards exploring historical figures with humor and depth, promising to engage audiences in London and potentially beyond.