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The Cast & Crew of War of the Worlds

H.G. Wells (no relation to Orson) wrote the original War of the Worlds novel in 1898, depicting a Martian attack on London. In 1938, scriptwriter Howard Koch adapted the novel for the CBS radio show, "Mercury Theater of the Air." The Koch version has the Martians landing in New Jersey on the night before Halloween. Orson Welles was the director and star of "Mercury Theater of the Air" at the time of the broadcast.

The Newtowne Players adapted the original radio version for presentation on the live stage. With some musical variations and the addition of a few old-time radio commercials, the Newtowne Players' version remains loyal to the Koch script, including on-stage sound effects.

"Hurray for SWANS DOWN CAKE FLOUR!"

"CREAM OF WHEAT is so good to eat"

Orson Wells, the director of the Mercury Theatre, broadcasts

"War of the Worlds" by H. G. Wells.

 

Kerry the announcer reporting weather.

Carla Phillips reports while Orson Wells directing the crowd noise.

Carla Phillips interviews Mr. And Mrs. Wilmuth.

City Family

Farm Family
Announcer John broadcasts, "You are listening to a CBS presentation of Orson Welles and the Mercury Theatre on the Air in an original dramatization of 'The War of the Worlds' by H. G. Wells."

"Pepsi Cola hits the spot, twelve full ounces, thatas a lot."

Orson Wells as Professor Pierson talking to Stranger
"This is Orson Welles, ladies and gentlemen, out of character to assure you that "The War of The Worlds" has no further significance than as the holiday offering it was intended to be. The Mercury Theatre's own radio version of dressing up in a sheet and jumping out of a bush and saying Boo!"

 

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