The 2025 Tony Awards in New York City were a dazzling spectacle, but the spotlight unequivocally fell on the brilliant Cole Escola. The multifaceted performer, celebrated for their role in “Oh, Mary!”, utilized the occasion not just to showcase their artistic prowess, but also to honor legendary Broadway figure Bernadette Peters. Escola’s choice of attire—a stunning silver-blue gown—could be seen as a vessel for personal expression, encapsulating an emotional tribute to an iconic moment from the Tony Awards’ storied history.
Revisiting a Timeless Icon
Escola’s gown, a creation from designer Jackson Wiederhoeft, was more than a simple homage; it resurrected memories of Peters’ own triumph back in 1999 when she won the award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for “Annie Get Your Gun.” By opting for a shade Escola affectionately calls “Cinderella blue,” they lent an air of whimsy and nostalgia to the evening. This choice not only showcases their connection to the history of theater but also embodies the bold, transformative spirit that characterizes modern performance art.
The intricate details of their gown—featuring hand-embroidered metallic blue glass beads—reflected a meticulous craftsmanship that can often be overlooked in an industry driven by commercial trends. The off-the-shoulder neckline and delicate taffeta train encapsulated a sense of grandeur and elegance that is oftentimes missing from contemporary fashion on red carpets.
Embracing Identity Through Fashion
Cole Escola’s vibrant personality extends beyond costume; it seeps into their identity as a non-binary actor. Their choice to wear a curly wig reminiscent of Peters’ signature locks allowed them to blur lines between traditional feminine and masculine styles, making a statement about representation and fluidity in art. Such sartorial choices during significant public appearances serve to challenge the rigid constructs around gender and identity, promoting a broader conversation around inclusivity within the performing arts.
Escola’s acceptance speech was another highlight of the evening, one that assuredly resonated with the audience. They were not merely basking in personal triumph—having made history as the first openly non-binary actor to win the Best Leading Actor in a Play award—but also elevating the discourse around representation in theater. Recognizing their fellow nominees with warmth and humor, Escola effortlessly combined playfulness with poignant acknowledgment, skillfully bridging their uniqueness and shared experiences.
More Than a Performance
The groundbreaking work “Oh, Mary!”, which Escola penned themselves, is a dark comedic exploration of Mary Todd Lincoln’s life leading up to one of America’s most tragic historical moments—Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. The very premise speaks volumes, serving as both a critique of societal norms and a poignant reflection on personal vulnerabilities.
As Escola continues to carve out space for non-binary narratives and characters in theater, their presence at the Tony Awards is emblematic of a larger shift occurring in the arts. This moment is not only about one individual’s victory but rather a celebration of potential—a recognition that inclusive storytelling can thrive in a landscape often saturated with conventionality.
With such a multifaceted and inspiring display of art, performance, and identity, Cole Escola undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the 2025 Tony Awards, ushering change through creativity and courage.