“This isn’t a war… It never was a war, any more than there’s war between men and ants.” H.G. Wells 1898

Step into the heart of one of the most iconic sci-fi stories ever written as H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds is reimagined in a gripping solo performance by Gav Cross. This reading, delivered in the bare bones intimate style of a Victorian parlour performance, thrusts audiences into the terror and urgency of a world in chaos, consumed by the unstoppable force of a Martian invasion.

Blending the power of a Victorian reading with the immediacy of live performance, Gav Cross brings Wells’ chilling tale to life, honouring the storytelling traditions of the past while capturing the relentless dread and desperation of humanity’s struggle to survive. At its core, this production is a haunting reflection on war, fear, and the suffering of innocents, themes as urgent today as when the novel was first published.

Tickets are £10 and can be booked in advance via the Burnley Mechanics Box Office, by calling 01282 664 400, or online here: https://burnleymechanics.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873690655

Doors to the building will open at 6.30 pm, doors to the performance area will open at 7 pm, and the performance will begin promptly at 7.30 pm

About The Venue & Access Information

Address: Burnley Mechanics, Manchester Road, Burnley BB11 1BH – limited parking is available at the venue and is free after 6pm

Burnley Mechanics has a ramp into the building, and the Front Room is on the ground floor, along with the toilets (and an accessible toilet). Please let us know in advance by ringing the box office if you are attending in a wheelchair or mobility scooter so that we can properly arrange the room. This performance will include projection but no flashing lights.