Last night marked a historic moment as Cole Escola, known for their impressive role in “Oh, Mary!”, graced the Tony Awards 2025 stage in New York City, captivating audiences not only with their talent but with an exquisite homage to Broadway legend Bernadette Peters. Sporting a breathtaking silvery-blue gown—aptly described by Escola as “Cinderella blue”—the outfit is a modern reimagining of a classic look Peters donned during her own triumphant evening at the Tonys in 1999 when she seized the title of Best Leading Actress in a Musical for “Annie Get Your Gun.”
Wearing a custom piece designed by Jackson Wiederhoeft, the gown’s intricate details, from the off-the-shoulder neckline to the corset-style bodice adorned with hand-embroidered metallic blue glass beads, embodied an enchanting blend of nostalgia and contemporary flair. The overall silhouette, complemented by a sweeping taffeta train, was a striking representation of not only fashion but also the emotional layers associated with theatrical history.
Symbolism and Identity
Escola’s choice to incorporate elements reminiscent of Peters’ hairstyle—an aburun curly wig—demonstrates a deep appreciation for the shared narrative of those who have graced the stage before them. As a non-binary individual utilizing they/them pronouns, Escola’s presence at the event and their bold fashion statement challenged traditional norms in a space often resistant to fluidity. Their nod to Bernadette Peters serves as a reminder that while the past informs the present, it is the current generation that reinterprets, reshapes, and refreshes the conversation around identity and representation.
Wiederhoeft’s commentary on the design’s inspiration revealed an intricate tapestry of ideas. The themes of “faded crypticism,” “false innocence,” and the paradox of “womanly age” highlight the clash between perception and reality in the realm of performance art. These nuances may appear subtle, yet they resonate with a significant depth that reinforces the weight of Escolas’ achievement.
A Historic Win
With five nominations for their captivating work in “Oh, Mary!”, Escola ultimately made history by winning the award for Best Leading Actor in a Play—an unprecedented feat for an openly non-binary performer. Not only did this recognition affirm their remarkable talent, but it also spotlighted the trajectory of representation within the theatrical community. Escola became the first individual in 40 years to win this prestigious accolade for a self-penned play, a milestone that echoes the legacy of a bygone era, marked by pioneers like Harvey Fierstein.
During their acceptance speech, Escola displayed a delightful mix of humility and humor, admiring the other nominees and expressing gratitude with an endearing shout-out to their mother. The simple yet heartfelt gesture grounded their achievement in personal love while elevating the collective spirit of the theatrical community.
A Reflection of Society
At its core, “Oh, Mary!” serves up a darkly comedic exploration of Mary Todd Lincoln’s psyche in the turbulent weeks before her husband’s assassination. This narrative is not merely a retelling of history; instead, it distills the complexities of human emotion during times of strife. In this way, Escola’s contribution to the arts transcends entertainment, striking a chord with societal reflections on grief, power, and identity. Thus, their moment on the Tony stage is far more than a glamorous spectacle; it is an illuminating statement on the evolution of storytelling in today’s culture, daring to explore the intersections of personal and historical narratives in profound new ways.
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