‘Mary and Hyenas’ recreates the life and times of trailblazer Mary Wollstonecraft with tongue-in-cheek humour and peppy indie rock music. Written by Maureen Lennon collaborating on original music and lyrics by Billy Nomates and directed by Esther Richardson, it is a sincere adaptation that must not be missed.
Laura Elsworthy brings alive Mary’s bold and assertive character. We are moved by her portrayal of the vulnerable child singlehandedly questioning patriarchy to her pining for unrequited love and inspired by her passion to live a life different from the sensibility imposed on her. We resonate with the tiredness and humaneness of a leader who is making mistakes and figuring out her purpose, safety and vocation while battling poor mental health herself and making bold choices like choosing to be a literary pioneer. The play centres on the friendship and care of many women around Mary who hold her away from the hyenas trying hard to tear her down.
Each of the cast brings panache, energy and determination to their roles and supports one another with great teamwork. Kate Hampson, Elexi Walker, Beth Crame, Kat Johns- Burke and Ainy Medina effortlessly switch pitches, genders and costumes bringing the chorus and choreography alive. As someone who lives in London, in retracing Mary’s steps, it’s inspiring to be reminded of the centuries of history we are surrounded by as we move between Hackney, Newington Green or the Unitarian church. The background sound of the clocks and chirping birds adds to the atmosphere in the scenes. Although, one might miss more songs in the second half and an exploration of other genres of music in the soundtrack.
A promising show that could soon find its way to a west-end theatre. With an efficient parquet floor set and many hands making beds, books and teddy bears appear and disappear. The play fails to reflect on Mary’s legacy that manages to get her foot in the door with her writing, critique and debate but still held onto religious and bourgeois beliefs that continue to affect feminism to this day. Her clarion calls for education and mutual cooperation in the midst of our present times, serves as an important reminder to learn how history repeats itself and art gives us the courage to channel our rage and find care in friendship. It is promising to see National Theatre’s Generate programme support companies like the Pilot Theatre develop and travel shows. As previously education has been used to maintain the status quo, one wishes success to the play’s resources and workshops to engage K5 year students and hope young minds meet Mary Wollstonecraft for the bisexual icon we always had but never knew of. Especially since she lived in a time of great terror and upheaval as we do now.
Reviewer: Anisha Pucadyil
Reviewed: 22nd March 2025
North West End UK Rating:
Rating: 5 out of 5.
