The Mercury Theatre on the Air

Robert Farrell

The Mercury Theatre on the Air was a groundbreaking radio program that began in the summer of 1938 on the CBS radio network. Created by Orson Welles and his Mercury company, the series was known for its inventive adaptations of classic and contemporary literature, including works like Bram Stoker's Dracula and H. G. Wells' The War of the Worlds.

Welles insisted on involving his entire Mercury company in the production, which was an unprecedented request for a radio series at the time. The show quickly gained notoriety, especially after the infamous War of the Worlds broadcast, which led to widespread panic among listeners who believed the Martians were truly invading Earth. This event catapulted the series to the top of the ratings and secured its sponsorship by Campbell's Soup.

Throughout its run, the program featured a variety of adaptations, showcasing the potential of radio as a medium for serious drama. The Mercury Theatre on the Air remains one of the most highly regarded radio drama anthologies ever produced, thanks to the creativity and vision of Orson Welles.

This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.