Jane Krakowski has been captivating audiences night after night at the Lyceum Theatre in Broadway’s “Oh, Mary!” where she portrays the eccentric Mary Todd Lincoln. Before each performance, Krakowski has a special pre-show ritual that helps her get into character. She listens to the iconic Ethel Merman Disco Album, particularly Merman’s cover of “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” According to Krakowski, this song perfectly encapsulates the essence of the show and instantly puts her in Mary Todd’s mindset.
It’s no surprise that the sought-after camp artifact, Merman’s vinyl, finds a home in Krakowski’s dressing room for “Oh, Mary!” The show, written by Cole Escola and originally starring them, reimagines Mary Todd as a former “niche cabaret legend” with a penchant for alcohol and a closeted husband. After debuting at the Lucille Lortel in 2024, the production quickly gained a cult following, rare for a Broadway show not centered around Alexander Hamilton.
Krakowski, a fan of Escola since their time on the set of “At Home with Amy Sedaris,” was drawn to the brilliance of “Oh, Mary!” upon seeing an early performance. She admires the comedic writing and versatility of Escola’s creation, which allows for various interpretations.
Following Escola’s departure from the show to focus on other projects, including a Miss Piggy movie produced by Jennifer Lawrence and Emma Stone, a lineup of talented actors such as Betty Gilpin, Tituss Burgess, and Jinkx Monsoon have stepped into Mary Todd’s bratty curls. Krakowski, who saw and appreciated all of their performances, eagerly accepted the opportunity to take on the role herself.
Krakowski’s involvement in “Oh, Mary!” has been met with enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. Her portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln has added a new dimension to the character, bringing her own unique flair to the role. With her experience and talent, Krakowski continues to captivate audiences with each performance, solidifying her place in the rich tapestry of Broadway history.
