I love it when a plan comes together and ‘Plan 9 From Outer Space‘ Does Ed Wood Proud at the Maverick Theater in Fullerton, CA.
The Maverick Theater’s latest production is a sensational revival of their original stage adaptation of Ed Wood’s “classic” 1959 film, ‘Plan 9 From Outer Space‘. This production is a true gem for the City of Fullerton, CA, showcasing the Maverick Theater as a diamond in the rough that brings unparalleled creativity and charm to the local arts scene.
While Ed Wood might have criticized the “extravagant” spending on special effects—perhaps suggesting that even Producer/Director/Writer/Lighting/Sound/Video/Miniature Set Designer and all around wonderful human being, Brian Newell could have found ways to “economize” further—there’s no denying that the Maverick Theater’s use of “Staged Cinema Scope” is nothing short of a magic show gone wrong in oh-so a right way. The theater’s Special (Jackson Newell) and Effects (Kairi Sanders) team of Maverick Light & Magic, has cleverly employed a large rear screen to project live miniature sets, creating a stunningly outlandish visual experience. As actors navigate through eerie graveyards and interact with flying saucers dangling over the Hollywood skyline, the effects are hilariously mesmerizing.
Kara Gee had me in stitches in her dual role as Tanna and Edith. At one point, I thought Edith was going to breakout into The Waitresses’ classic, “I Know What Boys Like“, posing like lead singer Patty Donahue in several instances. Jaycob Hunter, delivers a performance that is a masterclass in humor, ensuring that every moment he’s on stage is met with uproarious laughter. Hailey Tweter’s Paula Trent is a standout, her delivery of one-liners with perfect timing is nothing short of extraordinary, making her scenes some of the most memorable. Rob Downs as the General cracking himself up during mishaps nd Frank Tryon’s portrayal of Lieutenant Harper is a highlight of the production; his performance is so comically brilliant that it had me in tears from laughing. We cannot forget about Joe Smash as Captain Clay and Lisa Caperton as Vampira, along with a special appearance by Bela Lugosi (on screen) rounding out this show that Newell claimed, “Doesn’t have a second act because no one would stay for it.”
Newell was completely mistaken in that statement as the entire audience was roaring with laughter from the his introduction of ‘Plan 9 From Outer Space‘ to the final bow.
‘Plan 9 From Outer Space‘ runs runs through September 8th. Performs Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., Sundays at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $20.00. $10.00 for students with a current I.D. Tickets may be purchased online at www.mavericktheater.com or by calling 714-526-7070.
The Maverick‘s next performance will be Night of the Living Dead, running from Septermber 27 to October 27, 2024.
The Maverick Theater is located across from the Amtrak station at:
110 E. Walnut
Fullerton, CA 92832
Summary
The Maverick Theater has taken on this audacious project with a delightful tongue-in-cheek approach, embracing ‘Plan 9 from Outer Space‘s quirks and transforming them into an exuberant theatrical experience. This production is a testament to the theater’s bold creativity and commitment to delivering unique and entertaining performances.
