What’s On
Occasional performances, sharings and participation opportunities, offering a glimpse into what’s being made and how it happens.
LIFE OUT THERE
6 - 9 JULY
Written by Tim Foley | Created by Ransack Theatre
A desperate mission. An untested crew. A long shot no one expects to work.
Somewhere far beyond Earth, a barely-functional spacecraft drifts on a mission most people have already written off. The real scientists are doing the real work back home. Sent into the void: whoever’s left.
Clarke wants to get back. Baby won’t leave the ship. Witney is staying away from their mother. They were never meant to be astronauts. But they are what’s out there.
When something goes wrong in the silence of space, the crew are forced into a decision far bigger than they’re prepared for; a choice not just about survival, but about what kind of future is worth chasing across the galaxy
Written by Bruntwood Prize-winning playwright Tim Foley, Life Out There is a sharp, funny and quietly horrifying new sci-fi drama, exploring the ethics of space exploration, human selfishness, and the fragile hope that we can still change.
Life Out There performs at The Engine Room in Wigan between 6th - 9th July 2026. It has been co-commissioned through ThickSkin's Supported Artist Programme and Made at The Engine Room. Developed with support from the National Theatre’s Generate programme, The Lowry’s Artist Development Programme and the Arts Council England.
“Foley’s writing is a dotty delight” Guardian on Jurassic
“...it’s genius” ★★★★ Theatre&Tonic on Jurassic
“a very impressive company." ★★★★ Manchester Theatre Awards (on Ransack Theatre, for Moth)
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Any age guidance: 14+
Running Time: 115 mins (including interval)
CREATIVE MOVEMENT WORKSHOPS 60+
14, 21 July and 4 August (11am–1pm)
From Wigan’s own award-winning theatre company ThickSkin
Playful. Bold. Energising. Made for you.
Join us at The Engine Room for a series of FREE creative movement workshops designed for people aged 60+. Led by professional theatre artists, these sessions invite you to explore movement and creativity in new ways – reimagining what it means to grow older.
This is about curiosity, creativity, and giving it a go in a fun, friendly environment. No dance or drama experience required. Through imaginative physical theatre exercises, you’ll build confidence, discover new ways to move and express yourself, and connect with others in a welcoming, social space.
Expect laughter. Expect movement. Expect to surprise yourself.