Terrapin

The Paper Escaper

Background image: A paper cut out boy called Benny, who has one leg, the other a wheel stands on top of a table, behind him looks to be a workshop and on either side of him are coloured tentacles.
Credit: The Paper Escaper at Theatre Royal, 2023. Image: Peter Mathew
By Gita Bezard

When and What

  • Now
  • Theatre

Summary

  • Adaptable theatre work for all ages
  • Touring mainland Australia in 2025

Impact

  • The Paper Escaper has employed more than 20 Tasmanian and interstate artists
  • In 2022, The Paper Escaper was seen by 15,338 Tasmanian school children, the majority of these from remote, regional or disadvantaged schools
  • In 2025, Terrapin will test a slow touring model with The Paper Escaper in regional Australia, incorporating workshops and school performances into our theatres tour
The Paper Escaper at Theatre Royal, 2023. Image: Peter Mathew

Description

Benny, the plucky puppet protagonist in The Paper Escaper, knows they are destined for greater things than a simple pop-up book.

But in a world that’s trying to squash Benny between its pages – from a wily dancing fire to a disillusioned illustrator – Benny will need the help of a new friend to achieve their dreams.

Pullout quote

A beautifully crafted work written for the young and to be enjoyed by all ages.
– ArtsHub, 2023

Upcoming performances

2025

The Paper Escaper at Theatre Royal, 2023. Image: Peter Mathew

Interested in The Paper Escaper?

Get in touch

  • The Paper Escaper at Theatre Royal, 2023. Image: Peter Mathew
  • On a white checkerboard table is a giant multicoloured octopus with two eyes and tentacles going off in all the directions, on either side of the octopus is three fires make from fabric poking through the playboard. This scene is under stage lighting.
    The Paper Escaper at Theatre Royal, 2023. Image: Peter Mathew
  • surrounded by a colourful paper wilderness is a cardboard character called benny, they have orange hair, blue pants and an yellow t-shirt
    The Paper Escaper at Theatre Royal, 2023. Image: Peter Mathew

More info

Partners

  • Supported by

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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Proudly sponsored by Creative Australia and Tasmanian Government

  • Creative Australia
  • Tasmanian Government

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Contact

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

© Terrapin 2025