Star Performer

"Star Performer" by Robert Shea is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of cultural clash and personal identity as it follows a native Martian named Gavir, who is brought to Earth and faces the stark realities of both his home planet and the advanced, but ethically challenged society of Earth. The novel reflects on the dynamics of power and privilege, particularly in the context of colonialism. The story centers on Gavir, a Martian who possesses a unique talent for singing and dreamcasting, which he discovers can captivate Earth's citizens, particularly the aging and rebellious Century-Plussers. Despite his initial awe of Earth and its technologies, Gavir confronts the harsh discrimination and exploitation faced by Martians, especially at the hands of the Martian Development Corporation (MDC). As he rises to fame, Gavir finds himself drawn into a web of violence, ethical dilemmas, and personal vendettas, ultimately leading to a climactic confrontation that reveals the true nature of power and revenge in both Martian and Earth societies. Through his journey, the novel examines the loss of innocence, the quest for justice, and the struggles of an individual caught between two worlds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Robert Joseph Shea was an American novelist and former journalist best known as co-author with Robert Anton Wilson of the science fantasy trilogy Illuminatus! It became a cult success and was later turned into a marathon-length stage show put on at the British National Theatre and elsewhere. In 1986 it won the Prometheus Hall of Fame Award. Shea went on to write several action novels based in exotic historical settings.