Lost astronaut crash lands inside South West primary schools with ‘Down to Earth’ by Theatre Alibi

At a time when so many live performances have been cancelled, Exeter-based Theatre Alibi, who are renowned for their work with young audiences, have come up with an exciting and innovative way of reaching thousands of Devon Primary school children. Responding creatively to the many restrictions that theatre makers and schools are facing during the pandemic, Theatre Alibi are landing an astronaut, Janet, in primary school playgrounds across the county.

Written by award winning writer Daniel Jamieson, in response to the particular challenges that young people have been facing this year, ‘Down to Earth’ tells of how Janet has had enough of being in space. Feeling cooped-up and fed-up and missing the people she loves, she decides to make a run for it.  She heads for home in her little space pod. Only she gets her sums slightly wrong and finds herself stranded right outside a Devon primary school…

Whilst carefully keeping to safety guidelines, Theatre Alibi have made sure ‘Down to Earth’ will reach school children no matter what their circumstances. They have made two beautiful short animations for children to watch before and after a ‘surprise’ visit from Janet, who tells story her story to each class individually in the school. And, in case of a lockdown or children having to isolate, they have also created an interactive version of the story which can be experienced online, even from pupils’ own homes.

Dawn Baker, a teacher from Lampard Community School, who was there for Janet’s visit, fondly spoke of the experience:“She arrived, took her helmet off and captivated the children immediately. I on the other hand was almost overcome with emotion – there in front of me was a working actress performing for us, it was simply one of the most precious moments of this year. Theatre Alibi always bring fabulous shows to school, but this year will always stay with me. Never again will I take for granted the joy of seeing live performers do what they do best.”

Theatre Alibi’s Artistic Director, Nikki Sved, says: “Now, more than ever, children need stories to explore the complex emotions this year has brought with it, and we hope Janet’s visit helps them do just that. It also feels especially important, as we face the grind and anxiety of a second lockdown, to nourish children with an experience that is full of wonder and fascination. Something that’s truly out of the ordinary. It’s been a real privilege to see the look on pupils’ faces as they first spy an astronaut through their classroom windows!”