Mary and the Hyenas
Presented by Pilot Theatre and Hull Truck Theatre
Written by Maureen Lennon
Music by Billy Nomates (Tor Maries)
Directed by Esther Richardson
“A must-see for theatre lovers” ★★★★ The Reviews Hub
“A five-star production from a five-star cast.” ★★★★★ Fairy Powered Productions
Meet Mary and the Hyenas, a band who will sing you the inspiring story of Mary Wollstonecraft. A woman centuries ahead of her time: trailblazer, feminist and literary pioneer.
From her passionate advocacy for women’s rights to her tumultuous personal journey, Mary and the Hyenas captures the spirit and resilience of a woman who dared to defy the conventions of her time, and who kept going when so many wanted to bring her down. This is a witty, laugh out loud and searing tribute to the courage and determination of a woman who fought for equality and justice.
Featuring music by the acclaimed artist Billy Nomates, written by Maureen Lennon, and directed by Esther Richardson, prepare for our all female cast to roar onto the stage, singing and dancing with their chins up in defiance to the injustices of the world. Be prepared for petticoats to be lifted, boots stomped and voices raised in the determined pursuit of change.
Mary and the Hyenas was developed with the support of the National Theatre’s Generate programme.
Guidance and information
Recommended Age: 13+
Content Warnings: Domestic abuse, childbirth trauma, sexual content, swearing, death and loss, suicide, sexism
Running Time: Approx 2 hours 30 mins (inc a break)
Tour Dates
Education Resources
Reviews
★ ★ ★ ★ North West End
“Elsworthy’s incarnation is captivating, human and fiercely intelligent” British Theatre Guide
“Explosive from the start” Hull Whats On
“The actors are all sublime…this is a real team-effort.” Hull is this
“thought provoking, accessible and above all entertaining” Louder Than War
“Stunning, Stunning, Stunning. Laughed, cried, learned some stuff. Did I mention stunning!” Audience member
“Miss, this has changed my life” Schools audience member
Workshops
- 2 sessions or a full day: £350 + VAT.
- 1 session (up to 2 hours): £275 + VAT
- 2 sessions or a full day: £475 + VAT
- 1 session (up to 2 hours): £400 + VAT
Original Soundtrack
The original soundtrack to Mary and the Hyenas has been released via Invada Records. It features eleven brand new songs, with all music written by the Billy Nomates, and lyrics by Billy Nomates and playwright Maureen Lennon.
Listen on a range streaming platforms.
Cast and Creatives
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Laura Elsworthy
Mary Wollstonecraft
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Ainy Medina
Mary Shelley, Marguerite, Thomas Paine
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Beth Crame
Eliza Wollstonecraft, Dr Price, Margaret Kingsborough
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Elexi Walker
Joseph Johnson, Gilbert Imlay
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Kat Johns-Burke
Fanny Blood, Fuseli, Edward Wollstonecraft
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Kate Hampson
Elizabeth Wollstonecraft, William Godwin, Nurse
Director Esther Richardson
Designer Sara Perks
Music Billy Nomates (Tor Maries)
Lyrics Maureen Lennon & Billy Nomates (Tor Maries)
Lighting Designer Chris Davey
Musical Director Emily Levy
Sound Designer Adam McCready
Movement Director Ayesha Fazal
Assistant Director Eliza Beth Stevens (supported by the Garrick Charitable Trust)
Master Carpenter Chris Bewers
Workshop Carpenters Luke James, Daniel Lewis
Scenic Artists Sarah Feasey, Natalie Young
Costume Supervisor Siân Thomas
Costume Assistant Molly Frankland
Company Stage Manager Shona Wright
Deputy Stage Manager Lily O’Connor
Assistant Stage Manager Sarah Goodyear
Production Managers Sarah Barton (Hull Truck Theatre), Luke James (Pilot Theatre)
Producer Luke Dankoff (Hull Truck Theatre)
Executive Producer Mandy Smith (Pilot Theatre)
Gallery
