Laura Elsworthy, known for her versatile performances in theatre and television, is set to star as Mary Wollstonecraft in the world premiere of “Mary and the Hyenas” at Hull Truck Theatre. This new production, written by Hull-based Maureen Lennon with songs by Billy Nomates creator Tor Maries, promises a witty and searing tribute to the pioneering feminist philosopher.
Elsworthy, whose credits include roles at the RSC and Almeida Theatre, brings her talent to this all-female cast and creative team production. The play explores Wollstonecraft’s passionate advocacy for women’s rights and her tumultuous personal journey, capturing the spirit of a woman who defied the conventions of her time.
“Mary and the Hyenas” runs at Hull Truck Theatre from 7 February to 1 March 2025, before transferring to London’s Wilton’s Musical Hall from 18 to 29 March.
You’re bringing “Mary and the Hyenas” to Hull Truck Theatre. What can you tell us about the show?
The show is a journey through Mary’s incredible life, with a whole soundtrack which brings her to life even more. It’s performed by me and five other actors who guide Mary through her life just before she tragically died after giving birth to Mary Shelley.
How does playing Mary Wollstonecraft, often regarded as the mother of feminism, resonate with you as an actress?
Mary constantly refused the world saying no to her and she kept on going, she had a lot of fight in her and I would like to think that I have that in me. I didn’t grow up in an environment where being an actor ever seemed like a viable option and people often told me that it wouldn’t be possible. After four years of trying to get in to drama school and failing a thought that might be true too, but I definitely had a little more fight in me and managed to carve a career out for myself. Also, Mary was always just trying to do her best within a world that was fighting against her which I think, not only I, but a whole lot of people will resonate with.
Can you share some insights into the collaboration with writer Maureen Lennon and musician Tor Maries?
Well Maureen and I actually went to the same school and knew each other a little bit so it’s been so exciting to come together to work on something after years of finding ourselves in the industry. She’s an incredible writer and there’s something about coming from the same place that I think makes collaboration so much more enjoyable. And I’m a little obsessed with Tor, her music is so full of heart and fire and she’s a brilliant creative in her own right so to hear what she has brought to this project is very special. Maureen wrote the lyrics to the songs before Tor was on board with the project and I remember the first time we heard the music which Tor had created; we definitely all had goosebumps, and I haven’t stopped singing the songs since.
What has been the most challenging aspect of preparing for the role of Mary Wollstonecraft?
The prospect of playing Mary was kind of terrifying to me, especially with the addition of songs as I’ve never really considered myself a singer. She lived such a full life, with so many highs and lows which as an actor can feel very exciting but also daunting as so many people feel very connected to her so it’s feels extremely important to me to do her justice whilst also making her resonate with a modern audience. So, I suppose it all feels very challenging, but I love a challenge.
How does performing in Hull, close to where Mary Wollstonecraft grew up, add to the experience?
Hull Truck has always been a really important theatre to me as it was my local theatre growing up and also where I did my first professional job, I also live in Beverley, where Mary grew up and often walk past the house she lived in. There is a lot of pride for Mary here but also so many people who don’t really know who she was so I’m really excited to introduce her to a whole new group of people in a theatre that I love.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see “Mary and the Hyenas”?
Come!! Mary’s story is really incredible, and we have a bunch of brilliant creatives who I think are going to make something very special- genuinely the talent in the room is a lot! It’s going to be a night of laughter, joy, very catchy tunes, an unbelievable journey and also something that will leave you thinking about a woman whose legacy still has so much relevance in today’s world. You’ll probably leave slightly obsessed with Wollstonecraft and that’s definitely not a bad thing!
Mary and the Hyenas premieres at Hull Truck Theatre from 7 Feb-1 March and then transfers to Wilton’s Music Hall from 18-29 March, More information can be found here
