The cosmos has always been a siren call to human curiosity, drawing us in with promises of mysteries waiting to be unlocked. Ransack Theatre's 'Life Out There' is the latest production to boldly venture into this unforgiving expanse, landing at The Lowry in Salford with its sights firmly set on probing the very essence of existence. Written by Tim Foley – no stranger to exploring the boundaries between science and faith – this critically acclaimed play whisks audiences away on a perilous mission to locate a new home for humanity after Earth's downfall.
The crew of five astronauts is as diverse as it is doomed, each member grappling with their own personal demons in the face of catastrophic uncertainty. Witney (Sophie Steer) serves up wry one-liners like they're oxygen in space – 'slowest commute ever' indeed! – while Baby (Brianna Douglas) shoulders the weight of foretelling their grim fate. River (Samuel Gosrani), meanwhile, struggles to accept that his comrade Isaacs may be lost forever, leaving Clarke (Alastair Michael) clinging to hope like a lifeline in the void.
'Life Out There' taps into our collective psyche's fascination with the lone astronaut – think David Bowie's iconic Major Tom or Ryan Gosling's 'Project Hail Mary'. But Foley's latest offering also shares DNA with Spielberg's thought-provoking 'Disclosure Day', delving headfirst into the complex interplay between cosmology, ecology, and theology. This is a play that dares to ponder the possibility of life beyond this world – or even before it.
Piers Black's direction and Milla Clark's design masterfully conjure a claustrophobic atmosphere within the cramped spaceship, cleverly avoiding any over-the-top attempts at simulating weightlessness. Then there are the 'fizzing eclipses' that flash across the stage – courtesy of Alex Fernandes' lighting and Patch Middleton's music and sound design – which add an otherworldly layer to mime sequences by Chi-San Howard, sending chills down your spine.
For those who dare to venture further into the unknown, a particularly special performance of 'Life Out There' awaits on July 16th at Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire. This hallowed venue – renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to radio astronomy and space science – promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you pondering humanity's place within the vast expanse of creation.