Worlds collide in Woodside radio play Worlds collide in Woodside radio play (October 26, 2005)

Woodside Community Theatre is taking on one of the most famous radio broadcasts in American history. At 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 30, the Woodside group will re-create Orson Welles' "The War of the Worlds" radio play on the anniversary of the original 1938 broadcast.

"We're hoping to give our audience a feel for the live radio drama of that era," said Mark Bowles, director.

The original broadcast was delivered with such realism that it caused a panic among some listeners, who thought they were hearing a real news report, he said.

Cast members will perform the drama just as radio shows were done in the 1930s, and will create their own sound effects, Mr. Bowles said. The production will even have celestial similitude -- on October 30, Mars and Earth will be at their closest proximity, just as they are in the radio play, according to Mr. Bowles.

Admission to the performance is free, with tickets available at the door of the Woodside Village Church, 3154 Woodside Road, Woodside. More information is available at woodsidetheatre.org.

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