“Oh, Mary!” Star Jane Krakowski on ‘Terrifying’ and ‘Thrilling’ Experience of Leading Broadway’s Hit Play (Exclusive)

Jane Krakowski Takes on ‘Terrifying’ Yet ‘Thrilling’ Role in Broadway’s ‘Oh, Mary!’ Exclusive

Award-winning actress Jane Krakowski recently stepped into the spotlight in the Broadway sensation ‘Oh, Mary!’ where she embodies the character of Mary Todd Lincoln. The accomplished star, known for her roles in ’30 Rock’ and ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’, has been a long-time admirer of the show, having seen it multiple times before taking on the coveted role. In a conversation with PEOPLE, Krakowski shared insights into her experience of joining the cast of the Tony-winning play.

Krakowski, who just turned 57, commenced her run in the production at the Lyceum Theatre in New York City, donning Mary’s iconic pigtails and hoop skirt. The actress expressed her excitement at the opportunity to portray such a dynamic and comedic character on stage, despite the limited time she had for preparation. With only two weeks of rehearsal, Krakowski described the experience as both terrifying and thrilling, as she sought to make the role uniquely her own while honouring the performances of those who preceded her.

When asked about infusing her own personality into the character of Mary, Krakowski reflected on the similarities she found with the strong and emotionally expressive roles she has portrayed in the past. She highlighted the importance of bringing a comedic touch to the character, considering it not just a creative choice but a necessity in the context of the play’s vibrant narrative.

Krakowski also shared her excitement about reuniting with former co-star Cheyenne Jackson in ‘Oh, Mary!’, emphasising the natural chemistry they brought to their on-stage interactions. The actress praised Jackson’s contribution to the production and revealed that his advice and support had been invaluable as she prepared for her performance. Krakowski expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside talented colleagues and friends, making her involvement in the play even more special.

As she navigates this new phase in her career, Krakowski admitted that the nerves never quite disappear, especially when performing in front of a live audience. However, she acknowledged the thrill of the immediate connection she establishes with theatre-goers and the unique energy that live performances offer. Krakowski expressed her love for the theatre community and the sense of support and camaraderie that comes with being part of such a vibrant artistic environment.

The actress, who celebrated her birthday during the run of the play, described the experience of working on such a significant production on her special day as a symbol of positive beginnings. Despite the demanding schedule, Krakowski expressed enthusiasm for the creative process and the opportunity to connect with audiences through her performance. The actress’s dedication to her craft and passion for storytelling shone through as she embraced the challenges and rewards of portraying Mary Todd Lincoln on Broadway.

In conclusion, Jane Krakowski’s foray into ‘Oh, Mary!’ marks a significant milestone in her illustrious career, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft. As she continues to captivate audiences with her performances, Krakowski’s portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln stands as a testament to her talent and commitment to bringing memorable characters to life on stage.