We Open on Venus (Starship Troupers #2)

Young Ramou and mentor Horace both narrate first stop of the Star Company actors on New Venus, run by Amalgamated Petroleum monopoly, who charge high for water and air. Smoking is a capital crime. Before landing, alcoholic Ogden 80s, has heart attack, forbidden to imbibe. The school gym overflows, the audience roars, and more catches fire than arts appreciation.

Greedy Larry brings contraband lighters. Prima donna Marnie 50s snipes. Barry directs. Winston 40s is typecast villain, but nice. Professorial Charlie finds poisoned needle, hides secret. Gray suited Man still trails. Marlo teaches Ramou set design; Captain McLeod his crew duties.

Petty bureaucrats only allow Macbeth, and traditional curses take effect. Lacey and Susanna compete, but older costumer Grudy is best witch. Local cab-driver entrepreneur Chovy brings in friends and family, soon made friendlier by Ramou's martial arts skills. Includes 20-page preview The Witch Doctor.