Terrapin

Space Neighbours on Uranus

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By Nathan Maynard

When and What

  • Future
  • Theatre
  • Incursion

Summary

  • Suitable for earthlings of all ages
  • Touring theatres and schools in 2026
  • Each performance runs for 1 hour and includes a Q&A
  • Non-verbal storytelling makes Space Neighbours ideal for younger audiences and diverse language groups

Impact

  • Crafted to travel lightly, minimise environmental impact, and prioritise locally sourced materials.
  • Created to inspire conversations about coexistence, belonging, and the planet we share.
An alien character in a teal layered costume with antenna-like protrusions leaps mid-air with arms outstretched and mouth wide open in a dramatic, comedic expression of surprise or fright.
Two alien characters in colourful layered costumes tower behind a delighted child in a pink onesie and space helmet, who holds a camera.

Description

All is not well in outer space.

Two aliens live next door to each other on Uranus but they are NOT FRIENDS. And they’ll never never ever be friends, ok?

But then an adorable visitor arrives, their differences are forgotten and that’s the end of the story with zero fuss! Phew! That's a relief.

But that wouldn’t be much of a story, now would it?

Pullout quote

As is typical of Terrapin, the show was fun, professional, clever and entertaining. It held our entire Primary school entranced for the entirety. It has provoked conversations about belonging, sharing, kindness and caring for each other and the resources on our planet. As teachers we strive to teach our students, every day, in ways that are engaging and thought provoking. What Nathan Maynard and the Terrapin crew have created with Space Neighbours is ingenious. Show don’t tell. I loved it. Congratulations. And, thank you.
– Teacher, 2026

Upcoming performances

2026

  • Lutruwita/Tasmania schools tour 29 June – 27 November
  • Theatre Royal Studio theatre, Hobart 8 – 10 October
  • Theatre North Albert Hall, Launceston 14 – 15 October
An alien character in a purple and lilac layered costume with antenna-like protrusions reaches both arms forward with hands outstretched, as if grasping or gesturing urgently toward something out of frame.

Interested in Space Neighbours?

Get in touch

  • The teal alien in Space Neighbours on Uranus jogs across the stage with a cheeky smile, wearing a frilly snowflake apron. Tall icy blue set pieces rise behind her, with students' heads in the foreground.
    Space Neighbours on Uranus at Bellerive Primary School, 2026. Image: Peter Mathew
  • Jem as Baby in Space Neighbours on Uranus, aiming her toy camera at a green plant in a blue pot. Behind her, the purple alien dozes with eyes closed among the icy blue set.
    Space Neighbours on Uranus at Bellerive Primary School, 2026. Image: Peter Mathew
  • The purple alien holds a potted plant up to Jem as Baby, who screws up her face at the smell, in Space Neighbours on Uranus. The teal alien looks on, wide-eyed.
    Space Neighbours on Uranus at Bellerive Primary School, 2026. Image: Peter Mathew
  • In Space Neighbours on Uranus, the teal alien holds a small white fish skeleton over an icy well, ready for a solemn farewell. Beside her, the purple alien bows his head, hands clasped. Both wear frilly pink headbands.
    Space Neighbours on Uranus at Bellerive Primary School, 2026. Image: Peter Mathew
  • Jem as Baby in Space Neighbours on Uranus. Dressed in a pink onesie, silver space helmet and toy camera, she freezes in alarm as giant blue icebergs deflate behind her.
    Space Neighbours on Uranus at Bellerive Primary School, 2026. Image: Peter Mathew

More info

Partners

  • Tasmanian theatres season
  • Schools tour impact partner
Two alien characters lean in toward the camera from either side of a large sculptural inflatable prop in pale blue. The teal alien on the left peers in with a cool, watchful expression, while the purple alien on the right flashes a peace sign and pulls a wide-eyed, comedic face. The entire scene is set within a textured blue environment.
Credit: Space Neighbours on Uranus creative development, 2026. Image: Peter Mathew

Terrapin

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Terrapin reaches into all corners of Tasmania with innovative performance and impactful programs. We give students their first experience of the performing arts, bring laughter and connection into aged care, and support emerging local creatives to grow and thrive.

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  • Tasmanian Government

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Contact

77 Salamanca Place, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia 7004 info@terrapin.org.au

© Terrapin 2026
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