Columbia's Trustus Theatre Presents PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE, 9/14-29

Trustus Theatre is kicking off their Last Call Series with a fan-favorite in Columbia: Plan 9 from Outer Space. The show was adapted from Ed Wood's B-movie science-fiction-horror flick by local actor Shane Silman, who still serves as both director and cast member in this production. Its last incarnation at Tapp's was sold-out, and it is making its way to the Thigpen Main Stage at Trustus Theatre on Friday September 14th, 2012. Doors will open at 10:45pm after the run of Next To Normal, and the show will begin at 11:15pm. Tickets are $15, and may only be purchased at the door.

Based on what has been described by several critics as "the worst film ever made", Plan 9 from Outer Space chronicles the attempts of an alien civilization to take over the Earth through resurrection of the dead. The aliens' mission is to stop the governments of Earth from developing "Solarmanite", the ultimate weapon that would bring about the destruction of the universe. When the populations of Hollywood and Washington DC witness flying saucers in the sky, they try their best to defeat the alien foe. A Military Colonel, a commercial pilot, his wife, and a Police Lieutenant along with a trio of policewomen band together to stop the enemy from the stars. (The story claims to have been based on "sworn testimony")

Since the first production, the show received a nomination for "Best Local Production" by readers of the Free-Times. It has also gained some new actors since that original sold-out run. Trustus managing director Larry Hembree reprises his role as Bela Lugosi. Trustus company member Ellen Rodillo-Fowler plays Officer Ellen. Nia Company Member Trinessa Dubas (All This Intimacy) also returns. Other faces from the Trustus stage include Gerald Floyd (Almost an Evening), Mandy Applegate (The Last 5 Years), Rozlyn Stanley (Swing '39), Shane Silman (Almost an Evening), Jennifer Stephens Hill, Chip Stubbs (Assassins), and Catherine Hunsinger (Spring Awakening). Other talents includeChad Forrister, Jamar Goodwin, Lauren Campbell, Scott Means, Nick Dunn, Hardy Childers, and local alterna-culture trendsetter Chris Bickel.

Plan 9 from Outer Space returns on the Thigpen Main Stage on Friday, September 14th at 11:15pm and runs through Saturday, September 29th, 2012. All shows are on Fridays and Saturdays after the run of Next To Normal. Tickets are $15, and may be purchased at the door only. Patrons will want to come early to ensure their seats.

Trustus Theatre is located at 520 Lady Street, behind the Gervais St. Publix. Parking is available on Lady St. and on Pulaski St. The Main Stage entrance is located on the Publix side of the building.

For more information or reservations call the box office Tuesdays through Saturdays 1-6 pm at 803-254-9732. Visit www.trustus.org for all show information and season information.