YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – University Theatre’s production of “Episode 26” – a send-up of the rousing sci-fi serials that were once radio and movie theater mainstays – will open Friday in the Spotlight Theatre, inside Bliss Hall on the Youngstown State University campus.
The comic play, written by Howard Korder, was inspired by shows like “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” and “Flash Gordon,” which drew youngsters to the radio or the local theater on Saturday mornings in the 1930s.
It looks in on Buzz Gatecrasher; his sweetheart, Hillen Dale; and Dr. Art Deco, the nutty scientist, as they face the menacing Lord Vaknor, ruler of the Planet Darvon.
Lord Vaknor has the evil style of Darth Vader, Ming the Merciless and Dracula and fancies himself emperor of the universe. With the help of Arno, the winged King of the Hawk People, Buzz vanquishes Vaknor and saves the universe for another week.
Daring escapes, wild battles and interplanetary peril are part of the fun.
The show is directed by senior lecturer Todd Dicken.
The cast includes Nick Figiel, Natalie Ciccone, Chloe Camacho, Anthony Mudryk, Anna Airhart, Owen Mills, Layla Munholand, Karianne Rateno and Samantha Cox.
Katherine Garlick is costume designer, and Dicken is scenic designer.
Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 13-14 and 20-21; and 2 p.m. Feb. 15 and 22.
To buy tickets in advance, click HERE.
Pictured at top: The cast of “Episode 26” at University Theatre includes Natalie Ciccone, Sam Nabring and Nick Figiel.