Keala Settle, the talented actress known for her role in The Greatest Showman, is now embarking on a new chapter in her career with the play Mrs. President. In this thought-provoking production, Settle portrays Mary Lincoln, the former first lady, as she navigates the complexities of self-discovery and public perception in the aftermath of her husband's assassination and the Civil War. This role marks a significant departure from her previous work, allowing Settle to explore the depths of psychological drama and challenge societal expectations.
Settle's journey to this point has been a transformative one. After a decade of struggling with her identity and the expectations placed upon her, she found solace in the role of Mary Lincoln. The play, set in the studio of Mathew Brady, a pioneer of photojournalism, offers a unique perspective on Lincoln's inner turmoil and her quest for self-acceptance. It contrasts with the Broadway hit Oh Mary!, which portrays Lincoln as a drunk cabaret star, highlighting the diverse interpretations of historical figures.
The actress's own life experiences have shaped her approach to this role. Settle, who grew up in a multicultural household, felt torn between her Mormon upbringing and her Hawaiian-Louisiana roots. Her desire to act and sing, influenced by her recording artist mother, led her to pursue a career in the performing arts. However, she struggled with the pressures of conforming to societal norms, which is a theme she relates to Mary Lincoln's own challenges.
Settle's career has taken her to the heights of Broadway and the West End, with notable roles in musicals like Hands on a Hardbody, Waitress, Les Misérables, and Hairspray. However, her breakthrough role in The Greatest Showman brought both global recognition and personal challenges. The aftermath of the film's success, including a mini-stroke and brain surgery, led Settle to reevaluate her priorities and seek projects that inspire a healthy dose of fear.
The play Mrs. President represents a creative turning point for Settle, as she transitions from musicals to drama. Without the support of music, she must work diligently to convey her emotions and impact the audience. Settle's journey through The Greatest Showman and its aftermath has been a catalyst for her growth as an artist and a person, allowing her to understand and empathize with the complexities of Mary Lincoln's life.
The song 'This Is Me' from The Greatest Showman has become a powerful anthem for Settle, symbolizing her own journey of self-acceptance. She emphasizes that her version of success and authenticity may not align with others', a sentiment that resonates with Mary Lincoln's struggle against societal expectations. Through her portrayal of Lincoln, Settle aims to inspire audiences to embrace their true selves and challenge the limitations imposed by others.
Mrs. President is currently running at London's Charing Cross Theatre until March 8th, offering a captivating exploration of identity, grief, and the power of self-discovery. Settle's performance promises to be a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience, leaving audiences with a deeper understanding of the complexities of human nature.
