War of the Worlds: The Panic Broadcast
Inspired by and Including the Mercury Theatre on the Air’s Infamous 1938 Radio Play
Adapted by Joe Landry
Director: Alec J. Wolf
Just how far can media misinformation actually cause us to go? In 1938, the War of the Worlds aired on CBS radio, inciting fear and panic in the general public of New York and New Jersey. Although Orson Welles’ production was entirely fictional, many thought it to be a genuine alien invasion, leading it to become one of the most infamous radio broadcasts
in history. 10 years later, a small radio theater company sets out to return to the story, not only recreating the production itself, but exploring the media and public panic that resulted afterwards.
Performance Dates
- Feb 29, March 1, 2 at 8:00pm
- March 3 at 3:00 pm
Audition Dates
- November 16 at 7:00 pm
- November 18 at 6:00 pm
Please arrive as on time as possible for your audition date – actors will all be eligible for any role in the show, regardless of age or gender identity, so you may be asked to read multiple sides.
Role Descriptions
With the exception of Freddie, all performers will play multiple roles in the production. Actors should be prepared to bring an array of styles to their characters.
Freddie – The charismatic host of the evening’s program
Orson Welles – The star of the program and actor portraying Professor Pierson.
Harry – An actor portraying War of the Worlds producer John Houseman, among other roles
Lana – An actor portraying Sound Engineer Ora Nichols, among other roles
Jake – An actor portraying War of the Worlds writer Howard Koch, among other roles
Stage Manager – The Stage Manager and Announcer, both within the War of the Worlds and Out.
Dan Seymour Track – an actor playing a multitude of roles in the production.
Stranger Track – an actor playing a multitude of roles in the production.
Wilmuth Track – an actor playing a multitude of roles in the production.
Artillery Officer Track – an actor playing a multitude of roles in the production.