Space Cadet

Brand-new, Heartwarming Neurodivergent Musical

Isabella Pettite and Nikki Laurence present

Space Cadet

Space Cadet, a new original musical by Isabella Pettite and Nikki Laurence which premiered at the

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026. Combining original music, humour and heartfelt storytelling, the show

offers an authentic and uplifting exploration of neurodivergent life from the perspective of a neurodivergent

performer.

It’s impossible to say exactly what to expect from Space Cadet! Literally, the show comprises of

two, let’s say quirky, neurodivergent individuals on stage, with their instruments, for an hour telling a story

and singing songs… This musical will mean something different to every single audience member – some

will find it eye-opening, some will find it validating, some fascinating and some absolutely baffling; but it’s

guaranteed that the audience be entertained as they go on a journey into a neurodivergent mind, and that

the world will be seen in an entirely different way once this show has been experienced!

Space Cadet invites you into a world like no other - a world where people, emotions and music are all

bursting with colour, where ordinary situations become extraordinary adventures and time is a concept you

can’t seem to grasp. When asked about the show, creator Isabella Pettite said ‘I’ve always seen the world

differently but couldn’t find the words to explain why. I never actually intended to write a show, I didn’t think

I could! What started out as writing one song to try to communicate how I experience emotions turned into

ten songs. Suddenly, I was writing about all the outrageous things people have said to me about my

neurodivergence, as well as situations I’ve found myself in that seem straight from a comedy skit and before

I knew it, I had a musical!’.

This show is proudly challenging outdated stereotypes, and redefining what it means to be neurodivergent

in theatre. Space Cadet offers a fresh perspective on neurodivergent experiences and sparks conversations

about inclusion, identity and the many ways people experience the world around them. Co-creator Nikki

Laurence said, ‘Over the course of the last year we've made this piece which is an amazing journey through

the most incredible mind and the most amazing world of Izzy.’ Whether audience members identify as

neurodivergent themselves, or simply enjoy new and original storytelling, Space Cadet offers an

opportunity to connect with a perspective that is rarely seen on stage.

As a neurodivergent performer, Isabella’s mission is to give neurodiversity an authentic platform while

opening doors for the show’s future development. The aim for the show at Edinburgh Festival Fringe is to be

a catalyst for change and create further professional opportunities for both the creatives involved and the

show itself.