Kumail Nanjiani, known for his film career, is currently experiencing a major shift as he makes his Kumail Nanjiani Broadway debut at the Lyceum Theatre. Taking on the role of Mary’s Husband, who also plays Abraham Lincoln, in the Tony-nominated play Oh, Mary!, Nanjiani explains that performing live theater presents a unique challenge compared to acting in movies.
Unlike film, where multiple takes allow actors to perfect their scenes, Nanjiani reflects on the unforgiving nature of live performances, where every line and cue must be delivered correctly in real time. This adjustment has required him to embrace the spontaneity and unpredictability that comes with stage acting.
Laughing Through Live Mishaps With Supportive Co-Stars
During performances of Oh, Mary!, Nanjiani has encountered moments where he blanked on lines or missed entrances, a reality of live theater that contrasts sharply with his previous screen work. Thankfully, the cast, including lead star Jinkx Monsoon, helped cover these moments seamlessly, allowing the show to continue without disruption.
“What I’m learning is I can really fuck up—and it’s fine,”
Nanjiani said with a laugh, highlighting his evolving comfort with the unpredictabilities that live theater demands. His experience underscores the camaraderie and quick thinking required among the cast during live stage productions.
About Oh, Mary! and Its Acclaimed Creative Team
Oh, Mary!, a comedy written by Cole Escola, centers on Mary Todd Lincoln in the weeks before Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Known for its dark humor framed
“through the lens of an idiot,”
the play reimagines Mary Todd as a cabaret-loving, alcoholic figure. Since its Off-Broadway debut at the Lucille Lortel Theatre earlier in 2024, the show has drawn critical acclaim and extended runs.
The production features an ensemble cast that includes Jinkx Monsoon as Mary, Michael Urie as Mary’s Teacher, Jenn Harris as Mary’s Chaperone, and Tony Macht as Mary’s Husband’s hAssistant. Understudies Hannah Solow, Martin Landry, and Julian Manjerico provide additional support, with Solow set to take over the role of Mary full-time from September 30 to October 12. Tony winner Jane Krakowski will step into the role beginning October 14.
The creative team behind Oh, Mary! involves several key contributors: scenic designers dots, costume designer Holly Pierson, lighting designer Cha See, composers Daniel Kluger and co-sound designer Drew Levy, wig designer Leah J. Loukas, music arranger David Dabbon, with casting led by Henry Russell Bergstein. Bryan Bauer and Ryan Patrick Kane manage production stage operations as stage manager and assistant stage manager.
Record-Breaking Success and Tony Recognition
After breaking box-office records at the historic Lyceum Theatre by becoming the first show in its 121-year history to gross over $1 million in a single week, Oh, Mary! continues to garner attention in its Broadway run, which will extend through September 28. The play has won two Tony Awards for the 2025 season: one for Lead Actor in a Play for Cole Escola and another for Director of a Play, awarded to Sam Pinkleton.
Escola recently departed the show, but his work continues to resonate through the production’s ongoing success. Sam Pinkleton, the director, remains a crucial part of the creative process, ensuring the high standards and vitality of the play remain intact even with cast changes.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Oh, Mary! and Nanjiani’s Stage Journey
Nanjiani’s encounter with the demanding rhythm of live theater marks an important milestone in his career, challenging him to grow as a performer and embracing imperfections on stage. His experience reflects the broader energy and intensity of Broadway, where every night brings a fresh, unrepeatable event for audiences.
With a stellar creative team and cast, Oh, Mary! continues to attract attention for its bold storytelling and daring humor, promising to remain a noteworthy part of the Broadway season. For Nanjiani, his Broadway debut represents not only an artistic expansion but also a testament to the unpredictable, thrilling nature of live theater performance.
