Oh, Mary!, the hit Broadway comedy by Cole Escola, has opened at London’s Trafalgar Theatre with Mason Alexander Park taking the lead. Known for its farcical humour, absurdist style, and daring reinterpretation of Mary Todd Lincoln, the show has divided critics while delighting audiences. From its Broadway origins to the West End transfer, this article explores the show’s plot, themes, performances, and reception, and explains why it’s one of the most talked-about theatre events of 2025.
What Oh, Mary! Is About
Oh, Mary! is not your typical historical drama. Instead of focusing on the political life of Abraham Lincoln’s wife, the play imagines Mary Todd Lincoln as a flamboyant, frustrated, and hilariously chaotic woman living in the White House. She dreams of cabaret stardom, complains about her husband’s politics, and navigates absurdly exaggerated domestic challenges.
Written by Cole Escola and directed by Sam Pinkleton, the play blends historical reference with modern comedy, slapstick, and surreal humour. Mary’s life becomes a stage for outrageous antics, quirky asides, and over-the-top comedy that keeps audiences laughing from start to finish. The play is irreverent, audacious, and unapologetically loud.
From Broadway to the West End
Oh, Mary! premiered off-Broadway in 2024 and quickly became a sensation, celebrated for its boldness and unique voice. Its Broadway transfer at the Lyceum Theatre further cemented its reputation, earning multiple Tony Award nominations and critical acclaim for its inventive approach to comedy and historical satire.
The West End production opened at the Trafalgar Theatre in December 2025, bringing American absurdist humour to London audiences. The show’s transatlantic move highlights the growing trend of contemporary Broadway comedies making waves in the UK theatre scene.
Casting and Creative Team
At the heart of Oh, Mary! is Mason Alexander Park, whose performance as Mary Todd Lincoln has been widely praised. Park’s energy, timing, and stage presence are central to the production’s success, anchoring the wild humour with an undeniable charisma.
Supporting cast members include:
- Giles Terera as Abraham Lincoln, Mary’s beleaguered husband
- Kate O’Donnell as Mary’s loyal but exasperated assistant
- Oliver Stockley as a White House aide and comedic foil
- Dino Fetscher as Mary’s teacher and would-be mentor
The production team, including Sam Pinkleton as director and a talented group of designers for set, costume, and lighting, ensures a visually vibrant, fast-paced, and immersive experience for the audience.
A Bold Reimagining of History
Oh, Mary! deliberately breaks away from historical accuracy, using Mary Todd Lincoln’s life as a backdrop for humour and absurdity. The play transforms a historical figure known for her intellect and political influence into a larger-than-life character navigating the absurdities of domestic life, societal expectations, and personal ambition.
Critics note that the play’s combination of slapstick, camp, and satirical commentary offers a new lens through which to view historical narratives. Mary is both a comedic creation and a vehicle for examining gender, identity, and the ways women have been constrained by history.
Themes and Subtext
Beneath the laughter, Oh, Mary! touches on significant themes. The play examines:
- Female agency: Mary’s ambitions, frustrations, and desires highlight the limitations imposed on women in her era.
- Identity and performance: The constant interplay between Mary’s public persona and private desires invites audiences to reflect on the masks we all wear.
- Rewriting history: The play challenges traditional historical narratives, encouraging viewers to reconsider familiar stories with humour and critical insight.
By combining absurdity with these deeper threads, the play offers both entertainment and thought-provoking commentary, appealing to audiences who enjoy layered comedy.
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Reception in London
London critics and audiences have had a mixed but largely enthusiastic response.
Praise:
- Mason Alexander Park’s performance is widely celebrated as “magnetic,” “hilarious,” and “unmissable.”
- The production’s energy, pacing, and visual creativity keep viewers engaged and laughing throughout.
- Fans of absurdist comedy appreciate the show’s irreverent humour and bold departure from historical orthodoxy.
Criticism:
- Some reviewers feel the humour can be over-the-top or repetitive.
- The lack of traditional narrative structure or historical fidelity may leave some theatre-goers unsatisfied.
Overall, the West End transfer has generated buzz, with many audience members describing it as a “riotous, unforgettable theatrical experience.”
Why You Should See It
Oh, Mary! is a must-see for anyone who enjoys:
- Bold, fast-paced comedy: Every scene is designed to elicit laughs, from clever wordplay to physical comedy.
- Inventive storytelling: The play’s approach to historical figures is fresh, original, and daring.
- Standout performances: Mason Alexander Park and the supporting cast deliver consistently entertaining performances.
- Conversation-starting theatre: The play raises questions about history, gender, and performance in ways that extend beyond the theatre.
Whether you’re a history buff, a comedy lover, or simply curious about contemporary theatre trends, Oh, Mary! offers a uniquely entertaining experience.
Practical Details
- Location: Trafalgar Theatre, London’s West End
- Run Dates: December 3, 2025 – April 25, 2026
- Runtime: Approximately 80 minutes, no interval
- Audience: Recommended for viewers who enjoy camp, farce, and experimental comedy
Tickets are selling quickly, and early booking is advised for anyone planning to attend.
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FAQs
What is Oh, Mary! about?
It’s an absurdist comedy that reimagines Mary Todd Lincoln as a flamboyant, chaotic woman with cabaret ambitions, blending slapstick, satire, and historical parody.
Who stars in the West End production?
Mason Alexander Park plays Mary Todd Lincoln, supported by Giles Terera, Kate O’Donnell, Oliver Stockley, and Dino Fetscher.
Where is it playing?
At the Trafalgar Theatre in London’s West End.
How long is the show?
Approximately 80 minutes with no interval.
Is it historically accurate?
No — the play prioritizes comedy, absurdity, and thematic commentary over historical fidelity.
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I’m Atul Kumar, founder of Cine Storytellers and an entertainment creator with 5+ years of experience. I cover films, celebrities, music, and OTT content with a focus on accurate, ethical, and engaging storytelling. My goal is to bring readers trustworthy entertainment news that informs, inspires, and goes beyond gossip.
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