Last night, Cole Escola graced the Tony Awards 2025 red carpet, captivating the audience and highlighting both their personal journey and a rich tapestry of theatrical history. The star of “Oh, Mary!” donned a breathtaking silvery-blue gown that not only paid homage to the legendary Bernadette Peters but also showcased Escola’s strong artistic vision. At 38, Escola has emerged as a dynamic force in the theater world, and this event was a stunning example of their evolving self-expression.
The exquisite gown, a creation by designer Jackson Wiederhoeft, was reminiscent of Peters’ own iconic 1999 Tony dress, which celebrated her triumphant win for best leading actress in a musical for “Annie Get Your Gun.” By drawing inspiration from such a significant moment, Escola didn’t just pay tribute; they elevated the conversation around representation in the industry. Their choice of “Cinderella blue” was not only visually striking but also imbued with personal significance, inviting the audience to connect emotionally with both the garment and the person wearing it.
Breaking Boundaries
As the first openly non-binary actor to win a Tony award for best leading actor in a play they authored, Escola’s victory is historic and monumental. This achievement is more than just an accolade; it shatters long-standing barriers within an industry striving towards inclusivity. Acceptance speeches are often overlooked, but Escola utilized theirs to not just express gratitude but to also acknowledge their fellow nominees, reinforcing a sense of camaraderie that extends beyond competition.
Escola’s charm isn’t lost in their light-hearted remarks, where they referenced shared lunches with peers and cheekily addressed their mother. This blend of personal and professional highlights the authenticity that defines their presence. The fact that “Oh, Mary!”—a dark comedy exploring the life of Mary Todd Lincoln—grappled with historical gravitas while being presented by a writer and actor in the current landscape of artistic expression is a statement on its own. The backdrop of navigating the troubled waters of political legacy through the lens of an often-overlooked figure in American history adds further depth to Escola’s groundbreaking achievement.
A Vision of Fashion and Artistry
The design elements of the gown speak volumes about the intention behind Escola’s red carpet appearance. Adorned with hand-embroidered metallic blue glass beads and designed to reflect a “sense of fake naiveté,” the outfit reflects not only fashion trends but dives deep into the themes of duality inherent in performance art. The off-the-shoulder neckline and corset-style design bring a sense of classic femininity while celebrating a contemporary narrative of fluidity.
Wiederhoeft’s commentary on the influences of “faded crypticism” and “queenly status” further invites viewers to consider the layers of storytelling that accompany each element of the ensemble. Every bead and stitch is a deliberate choice, showing how fashion can serve as a canvas for broader societal conversations. This attention to detail reinforces Escola’s creative journey and points toward a future where artistry in theater and fashion coalesces even more significantly.
Escola’s impactful presence at the Tony Awards is a reminder that the world of theater is not merely a realm of escapism but a powerful conduit for social change and dialogue. Their journey, marked by significant accolades and a commitment to authenticity, is a triumph worth celebrating—both for its individuality and for the larger narrative it builds within the fabric of the performing arts.