Questions

What is the plot?

The episode "Cole Escola & Darren Criss" from Variety Studio: Actors on Actors: Broadway, Season 1, Episode 5, is a recorded conversation rather than a scripted narrative with a traditional plot. It features Cole Escola and Darren Criss discussing their experiences with the Broadway show "Oh, Mary!" and their careers.

The episode begins with Cole Escola and Darren Criss introducing themselves and their roles in the Broadway production "Oh, Mary!" They talk about the show's journey from an off-Broadway run at the Duplex in the West Village to becoming a Broadway sensation. They reflect on the excitement and challenges of the show's success.

Darren Criss shares his experience of watching the show for the first time when Betty Gilpin took over his role. He describes the surreal feeling of seeing the production from the audience's perspective and how the director, Sam, was nervous about doing the writer proud. Criss mentions giving notes after watching the show and appreciating the play's quality.

Cole Escola discusses the pressure and thrill of performing in a show that attracts famous audience members, including Steven Spielberg. They talk about the dynamic of playing characters in the show, with Criss portraying Mary's husband and teacher, and Escola reflecting on the historical context of their roles.

Throughout the episode, they exchange anecdotes about rehearsals, performances, and the creative process behind "Oh, Mary!" They highlight the collaborative nature of theater and the importance of supporting fellow actors and the production team.

The conversation concludes with both actors expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the show and encouraging viewers to see "Oh, Mary!" on Broadway through September 28th.

No traditional plot events, twists, or character-driven decisions occur in this episode since it is an interview-style discussion focused on the actors' personal experiences and insights related to their Broadway work.

What is the ending?

⚠ Spoiler – click to reveal

The episode "Cole Escola & Darren Criss" from Variety Studio: Actors on Actors: Broadway, Season 1, Episode 5, concludes with a reflective and warm exchange between the two actors about their experiences with the Broadway show "Oh, Mary!" and the journey of the production from its early days to its Broadway run.

In the final moments, Cole Escola and Darren Criss discuss the surreal feeling of watching their show performed by others, particularly when Betty Gilpin took over a role. Darren shares how it was the first time he truly saw the show from the audience's perspective, describing the experience as "not surreal at all," but rather a lovely affirmation of the play's impact. The director, Sam, is mentioned as being nervous but open to feedback, highlighting the collaborative nature of the production. The conversation ends on a note of mutual respect and appreciation for the creative process and the show's success.

Expanded narrative of the ending scene by scene:

The episode’s closing segment begins with Cole Escola recounting the moment he watched "Oh, Mary!" performed by the understudies, including Betty Gilpin stepping into a role. This was a significant moment for him because it was the first time he had seen the show from the audience’s viewpoint rather than as a performer. He describes the experience as surprisingly normal and grounding, emphasizing that it felt like simply watching a good play rather than something surreal or detached.

Darren Criss responds by acknowledging the unique perspective that comes with passing a role to others. He reflects on how this transition allows actors to appreciate the work from a new angle and how it can be both nerve-wracking and rewarding. The director, Sam, is brought into the conversation as someone who was anxious about the performance but eager to hear honest feedback, underscoring the trust and openness within the creative team.

As the conversation unfolds, both actors express admiration for the play’s journey—from its intimate beginnings at the Duplex in the West Village to its successful run on Broadway. They highlight the collaborative spirit that fueled the production’s growth and the joy of seeing the story resonate with audiences.

The episode closes with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. Both Cole Escola and Darren Criss are left in a place of gratitude for the opportunity to be part of "Oh, Mary!" and for the chance to witness its evolution. Their fates at the end of the episode are those of artists who have contributed meaningfully to a celebrated work and who continue to support and celebrate the ongoing life of the show through others.

No dramatic plot twists or conflicts conclude the episode; instead, it ends on a reflective and celebratory note, emphasizing the themes of artistic collaboration, growth, and the enduring impact of theater.

Is there a post-credit scene?

⚠ Spoiler – click to reveal

The episode "Season 1, Episode 5: Cole Escola & Darren Criss" of Variety Studio: Actors on Actors: Broadway, produced in 2025, does not have any information available indicating the presence of a post-credit scene. The sources describing the episode focus on the conversation between Cole Escola and Darren Criss about their Broadway shows, their personal lives, and their mutual admiration, but none mention a post-credit scene or any additional footage after the main interview.

Therefore, based on the available information, there is no post-credit scene in this episode.

What specific Broadway shows do Cole Escola and Darren Criss discuss in their conversation on Variety Studio: Actors on Actors: Broadway, Season 1, Episode 5?

Cole Escola discusses their show "Oh, Mary!" while Darren Criss talks about his role in "Maybe Happy Ending" on Broadway during their conversation.

How do Cole Escola and Darren Criss describe their experiences performing their respective Broadway shows?

Cole Escola mentions the physicality of "Maybe Happy Ending" and the challenge of performing the same movements repeatedly, while Darren Criss describes his role in "Maybe Happy Ending" as the easiest part of his day compared to raising two toddlers under three years old.

What personal connection or interaction do Cole Escola and Darren Criss share about seeing each other's shows?

Darren Criss shares that he had admired Cole Escola's work for a long time and asked to be connected with them. Cole Escola recounts seeing a matinee of "Maybe Happy Ending" and being emotionally moved, then walking to the Lyceum Theatre where Darren performs.

Do Cole Escola and Darren Criss discuss any challenges related to their Broadway performances in the episode?

Yes, they discuss the physical demands of performing the same movements eight times a week, with Escola highlighting this aspect, and Criss mentioning the challenge of balancing Broadway performances with parenting two young children.

What insights do Cole Escola and Darren Criss share about their lives outside of Broadway in this episode?

They talk about their different life circumstances, particularly Darren Criss having two children under the age of three and how that shapes his daily schedule, contrasting with Cole Escola's experiences.

Is this family friendly?

The episode "Cole Escola & Darren Criss" from Variety Studio: Actors on Actors: Broadway, Season 1, Episode 5, is generally family friendly as it consists of a conversation between the two actors about their Broadway shows, their careers, and personal lives. There are no indications of explicit content, violence, or strong language that would be inappropriate for children or sensitive viewers based on the available descriptions and video content summaries.

Potentially sensitive aspects might include: - Discussions about the emotional challenges and physical demands of performing on Broadway, which could be intense but are not graphic or upsetting. - Some mature themes related to adult life and career pressures, but these are presented in a respectful and conversational tone without explicit detail.

No scenes or content have been noted as objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive people in the sources reviewed. The episode focuses on professional and personal reflections rather than dramatic or controversial material.