An enchanting interstellar adventure for anyone who’s looked to the stars and imagined the cosmos. 

As darkness falls, 8-year-old Ellen’s painted spaceship comes to life. Joining Ellen on board are new friends and trusted crew members Yuri Gagarin, Neil Armstong, Laika the space dog, and the first woman in space, Valentina Tereshkova. 

Ellen goes on an extraordinary adventure that takes her past the edge of the unknown and onto the surface of an alien planet. Acclaimed theatremaker Anders Falstie-Jensen pays tribute to the imagination of kids who manage to stretch mightily to keep their feet on the ground as they reach for the stars. 

Winner of Playmarket New Zealand's 2022 Plays for the Young Competition (for 8 - 12 year olds).

The Valentina was commissioned by Auckland Live as a world premiere for Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival 2024.