SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Nearly 88 years after a radio broadcast sparked widespread panic across the country, Marywood University’s theatre program is bringing the historic moment back to life with “War of the Worlds: The Panic Broadcast,” running through Sunday at the Munley Theatre.
The production reimagines Orson Welles’ famous 1938 radio adaptation of H.G. Wells’ science-fiction novel, recreating the historic broadcast while exploring themes of media, public trust and misinformation.
The play shifts between 1938, 1948 and the modern era, taking audiences inside a live radio studio where actors, announcers and Foley artists bring a Martian invasion to life. News bulletins interrupt the broadcast as reports of destruction spread across the airwaves.
Director of the Marywood production Conor Kelly O’Brien said audiences can expect a few surprises and an immersive theatrical experience as the familiar story unfolds in unexpected ways.
“It’s a really interesting blend of modern and classic technology. We have Foley artists, which is simply how sound effects are created live. We also have this beautiful theater facility where we’re able to transform it with our lighting, with our beautiful staging over here. I think you can expect a good old-fashioned, really classic theater experience,” said O’Brien.
Live sound effects, including gunfire, thunder and rain, are created onstage, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques used in traditional radio drama.
Marywood students have played a significant role in the production, handling everything from acting and stage management to technical work and marketing. The hands-on experience helps prepare students for careers in theatre and the arts.
Shows continue Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with a final performance Sunday at 2 p.m. inside the Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts. Tickets can be purchased online or with cash at the door.