The Lyceum Theatre in New York City erupted in applause on March 18 as Tituss Burgess made his highly anticipated debut in Oh, Mary!, an absurdist comedy about Mary Todd Lincoln in the days leading up to Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. The six-time Emmy nominee, known for his role in Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, received a standing ovation after his first performance, with former The Little Mermaid costars Sierra Boggess and Sherie Rene Scott among the enthusiastic crowd.

Burgess is stepping into the role of Mary Todd Lincoln, replacing Betty Gilpin for a limited three-week engagement, which will run through April 6. Burgess expressed his excitement, calling the show “fresh and impossibly funny” and praised the genius of creator and original star Cole Escola. His portrayal of Mary Todd, known for its physicality, chaotic energy, and cartoonish expressions, has added a new layer to the already unique production.

Tituss Burgess
Tituss Burgess in “Oh, Mary!” (Photo Credit: Emilio Madrid)

Director Sam Pinkleton noted that Burgess’s take on Mary Todd has brought a “joyous new dimension” to the character, while Escola, who had once dreamed of seeing Burgess in the role, couldn’t be more thrilled with the result.

For fans looking to catch Burgess in action, Oh, Mary! runs until April 6 at the Lyceum Theatre before Escola returns to the role.

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