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

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.

• 
  

Tickets: Available now at https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/theatreconspiracy/7728Learn more: www.calusanature.org

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.

SEE THE NEWS-PRESS FRONT PAGE STORY ON OUR RECOVERY HERE: https://www.news-press.com/story/news/environment/2025/10/03/nature-fights-back-calusas-wild-comeback-in-fort-myers-florida/85321033007/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=true&gca-epti=z117521p002050n11----c11----e009700v117521b0047xxd004765&gca-ft=244&gca-ds=sophi

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