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Experience MUTTNIK Live Under the Stars — Learn More on WGCU Today!

  • eraddatz7
  • Oct 30, 2025
  • 3 min read


Theatre Conspiracy’s farewell tour season continues with a performance that’s out of this world. Actor and playwright Bruce Ryan Costella brings his multi award-winning one-man show, MUTTNIK, to the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium for a special limited engagement November 7–9.


Before heading to the show, tune in to WGCU today at 1:30 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. to learn more about MUTTNIK, its creative journey, and the remarkable true story that inspired it. You can read more here: wgcu.org: Bruce Costella performs his one-man show “MUTTNIK” at the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium


Performed beneath the night sky, MUTTNIK transforms the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium into a cosmic stage. Costella embodies Laika, the stray dog from Moscow who became the first living being to orbit Earth aboard Sputnik 2 in 1957. Through humor, historical insight, and poignant storytelling, MUTTNIK explores humanity’s drive for discovery and the moral questions that accompany it. WGCU PBS & NPR for Southwest Florida


This special performance series also serves as a fundraiser supporting the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium’s ongoing revitalization, helping sustain its mission of environmental education and exploration for future generations.


“At the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, we’re always looking for ways to inspire curiosity and connection — not only with our natural world, but with the universe beyond,” said Eric Raddatz, Executive Director of the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. “Hosting MUTTNIK under the stars feels like a perfect extension of that mission. The story reminds us that space exploration isn’t just about technology — it’s about courage, compassion, and our shared desire to understand our place in the cosmos.


By blending art and science, storytelling and stargazing, this performance celebrates what makes Calusa unique — a place where curiosity meets compassion, and where community and creativity come together under one vast sky.”


IF YOU GO:

What: MUTTNIK — Written and performed by Bruce Ryan CostellaPresented by: Theatre Conspiracy at the Calusa Nature Center & PlanetariumWhere: 3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905When:

  • Friday, Nov. 7 – 7:30 p.m.

  • Saturday, Nov. 8 – 7:30 p.m.

  • Sunday, Nov. 9 – 4:00 p.m.



Join WGCU today at 1:30 and 7 p.m. to hear more about MUTTNIK, then experience this

powerful story live under the stars next weekend.



COMING UP:



BEAUTIFICA — A 360° Cosmic Journey

Now showing in the dome | 7:00 PM Evenings

From the creators of Mesmerica, Beautifica is a breathtaking, immersive planetarium experience combining art, science, and emotion — a perfect balance to the adrenaline of Haunted Walk.

Tickets start at $24. Seating is limited.


Visit Us

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

3450 Ortiz Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33905

www.calusanature.org | (239) 275-3435

With special thanks to Bellacino's, Sanibel Captiva Bank, Famous Dave's, Fort Myers Film Festival and anonymous donors, we could not do it without you!


About Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Founded in 1969, Calusa is a 105-acre environmental sanctuary featuring trails, wildlife exhibits, a butterfly garden, and the region’s only public planetarium. As a nonprofit organization, Calusa is dedicated to inspiring and educating through nature and science year-round.


Media Contact

Eric Raddatz

Executive Director

eraddatz@calusanature.org | (239) 275-3435



 
 
 

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Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 4pm

Pricing:

Adults $13 

Children $7

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CALUSA NATURE CENTER AND PLANETARIUM IS REGISTERED WITH THE STATE OF FLORIDA. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION (CH661) AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE OR VISITING WWW.800HELPFLA.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. OUR CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY, CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY AND WHISTLEBLOWER POLICY ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. EIN #23-7090889

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