In a stunning and heartfelt tribute to Broadway legend Bernadette Peters, Cole Escola graced the 2025 Tony Awards in an exquisite gown that paid homage to Peters’ iconic look from the 1999 ceremony. Escola, known for their work in “Oh, Mary!”, donned a captivating “Cinderella blue” gown that emulated the one Peters wore when she scooped the award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for “Annie Get Your Gun” over two decades ago.
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The ethereal ensemble was a custom creation by Wiederhoeft, featuring intricate details such as a lace-up corset in delicate pale blue taffeta, adorned with hand-embroidered metallic blue glass beads. The gown’s ornamental door motif cascading down the front in silver glass beads and crystals symbolized Peters’ medals and the significance of time, as stated in a press release. The voluminous train, also in light blue taffeta, added a touch of elegance to Escola’s ethereal look.
Paying attention to every detail, Escola completed the tribute with a reddish-brown curly wig reminiscent of Peters’ distinctive hairstyle, showcasing a deep appreciation for the Broadway icon’s signature aesthetic. The nod to Peters’ timeless style was further amplified by Escola’s choice of accessories, including a pendant necklace featuring British actress Laura Keene, who starred in the play “Our American Cousin”.
In a statement shared by designer Jackson Wiederhoeft, the inspiration behind Escola’s look was rooted in Peters’ 1999 Tony Awards attire, resonating with themes of faded crypticism, false innocence, and queenly status. The collaboration between Escola, Wiederhoeft, and David truly captured the essence of Peters’ iconic appearance, infusing the gown with a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the Broadway legend.
The significance of this homage was not lost on attendees and fans of Broadway, as Escola’s tribute to Peters added a poignant touch to an already star-studded event. Escola’s nomination for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a play for their role in “Oh, Mary!” further highlighted their talent and dedication to the craft, solidifying their place as a respected figure in the Broadway scene.
As the 2025 Tony Awards unfolded in New York City, Escola’s tribute to Peters stood out as a shining moment of admiration and respect for a Broadway icon. The carefully curated gown, inspired by Peters’ past glory, served as a reminder of the timeless elegance and artistry that defines the world of Broadway, captivating audiences and industry insiders alike.
In a night filled with glamour and celebration, Escola’s sartorial homage to Bernadette Peters added a touch of nostalgia and reverence to the proceedings, underscoring the enduring influence of Broadway legends on the current generation of talent. Escola’s heartfelt gesture towards Peters served as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of Broadway, bridging the gap between past and present in a truly unforgettable manner.