Maya Rudolph Makes Her Broadway Debut with ‘Oh, Mary!’

Maya Rudolph has ventured into Broadway with the play “Oh, Mary!” where she takes on the role of Mary Todd Lincoln. For her debut, she went through extensive preparation, which included hiring a trainer and rehearsing lines with her daughter. When she needed it, her improv skills were invaluable.

Rudolph describes the humor in “Oh, Mary!” as delightfully silly, bordering on brilliant. The play offers a historically inaccurate depiction of Mary Todd Lincoln as a self-centered, aspiring cabaret singer burdened by her husband, Abraham Lincoln. Rudolph’s comedic prowess shines as she embraces the play’s slapstick humor with physical antics and exaggerated facial expressions, often delivering laughter through her actions more than words.

Sam Pinkleton, the director of the play, praises Rudolph as a natural on stage. He notes her ability to stay present, interact with the audience, and respond astutely, all of which are intrinsic to her performance style.

Rudolph is the eighth actor to portray Mary in this production, following a line of illustrious performers including the creator Cole Escola, along with Betty Gilpin, Tituss Burgess, Jinkx Monsoon, Hannah Solow, Jane Krakowski, and John Cameron Mitchell. She joined the cast with only ten days of rehearsal and will continue in the role until July 5.