Sutter Street Theatre War of the Worlds

Martians, microphones, and mayhem—sign us up. Sutter Street Theatre is staging War of the Worlds as a vintage-style radio play on Friday, October 11, complete with actors at standing mics, on-stage sound effects, and that delicious slow burn from “odd atmospheric disturbance” to “full-blown invasion.”

You’ll hear H. G. Wells’ tale the way 1938 audiences did on CBS: as a realistic series of “live” updates from the field—dance music interrupted by alarming bulletins, experts weighing in, a reporter whispering through static as something enormous rises from a New Jersey field. It’s theater for the ears, and you get to watch it being made.

Why it’s a must-see
• Live foley: footsteps in gravel, doors, wind, alien heat-ray hums—crafted right in front of you.
• Ensemble at the mics: the Mercury Theatre style—one cast, many voices.
• History meets Halloween: spooky vibes without jump scares, perfect for a fall night out.

About the legendary 1938 broadcast
On October 30, 1938, Orson Welles and the Mercury Theatre on the Air aired War of the Worlds on CBS. Its innovative news-bulletin format was so convincing that it generated a wave of phone calls, newspaper headlines, and FCC scrutiny. While the myth says “America panicked,” later research shows the true impact varied by location—some listeners were genuinely rattled, many were simply thrilled (or missed it entirely). Either way, the broadcast became the most famous moment in radio drama and a masterclass in media realism.

Make it a night
• Grab dinner on Sutter Street, then sink into the show.
• Dress vintage if you like—fedoras and red lipstick pair beautifully with vacuum tubes.
• Perfect for date night, families with older kids, and history buffs.

When: Saturday, Oct 11, 4:00pm

Where: Sutter Street Theatre