Interview: Tessa Albertson, I’m Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire

Direct from its critically acclaimed sold-out New York premiere, I’m Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire heads to London. This sharp new comedy reminds us that with great obsession comes great heartache. At the heart of the production is Shelby Hinkley and we had the opportunity to chat with Tessa Albertson who plays the role in the premiere at Southwark Playhouse Borough which begins on 28 June 2024.

To begin with, can you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about the work you’ve done prior to I’m Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire.

Hello! My name is Tessa Albertson and thank you for having me. I am an actor based in New York and Los Angeles! I’ve worked on projects in film, television and theater. I’m most known for my recurring role on the TV show Younger. I also dabble in the comedy world!

How did you find out about this play and what drew you in to wanting to be involved with it?

Back in 2021, Tyler Struble (the director) and I were both part of 24 Hour Plays: Nationals which brings together twenty-four rising theatermakers. A few months later, Tyler reached out about a workshop for I’m Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire. He said I would really dig the part and of course, it always feels great when someone recognizes your work and knows the kind of work you are drawn to. The play is wild and unapologetic. I love stories about girls growing up on delusional pop music and fan fiction, and where they derive their strength from. I also get to showcase my comedic skills while grounding the absurdity of the play. It’s a tall order for an actor and I love the challenge. 

You are reprising your role as Shelby following its sold out run in New York last summer, do you think there have been many changes ahead of its run in London?

The play ultimately worked last summer, so it was great to come into this production knowing all we had was more time to delve deeper into the world of the play. The main changes are firstly, the set configuration and it’s been a really cool experience re-calibrating the staging. But more importantly, there are different actors playing Tobey and Brenda Dee Cankles and that changes the dynamics at play. It’s really rewarding to acknowledge the differences and embrace them head-on. The play is a living, breathing thing!

What has it been like revisiting this character, have you approached her differently?

I’m in a different place now than I was a year ago. I’m more comfortable with the darkness of life and the play, and how we seek out safety when we’re feeling alone. So all the fun is still there from last year, but it’s been interwoven with darkness and vulnerability as well which I think makes for a richer experience.

For those who don’t know much about this play, what is it about?

I’m Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire is about a fourteen year-old girl who is the head of the Tobey Maguire fan club in 2004. She kidnaps the movie star in her basement in South Dakota and forces him to marry her. Any questions?

Playing a character who is obsessed with a famous actor, who was your teenage crush/obsession growing up?

You know, I didn’t necessarily have a celebrity crush. I would however, daydream about starring in music videos while I lured my real-life crush into kissing me. But also if I had to name names, Hilary Duff, Avirl Lavigne and Britney Spears were all pretty big idols for me. I also went through a big Green Day phase. 

What can audiences expect from this play and who will it appeal to?

This show defies expectations. However, it will make you laugh, gasp, and question our parasocial relationships with celebrities. Why do we find safety in people we don’t know? 

Finally, why should people book their tickets to see this play?

Book your tickets because IGMYTM is everything a play should be. It’s hilarious, energetic, thought-provoking, heartbreaking and rule-breaking. Did I mention it’s FUN? It’s really fun. Definitely an hour and a half well spent!

Catch I’m Gonna Marry You Tobey Maguire at the Southwark Playhouse Borough from 28 Jun - 10 Aug 2024.