Why did the radio broadcast of The War of the Worlds include an orchestra and musical breaks?

The radio broadcast of "The War of the Worlds," directed by Orson Welles and aired on October 30, 1938, included an orchestra and musical breaks for several reasons: 1. **Realism and Authenticity**: The use of an orchestra and musical interludes helped to create a more realistic and immersive experience for listeners. By incorporating music, the broadcast mimicked the format of a typical radio program of the time, which often included musical performances. This added to the believability of the fictional news reports that followed. 2. **Dramatic Effect**: Music can enhance the emotional impact of a story. The orchestral pieces were used to build tension and create a sense of urgency during critical moments in the narrative. This dramatic scoring helped to engage the audience and heighten the overall experience of the broadcast. 3. **Pacing and Structure**: The musical breaks provided a structure to the broadcast, allowing for transitions between different segments of the story. This pacing helped to maintain listener interest and provided moments of relief amidst the intense and frightening content of the narrative. 4. **Audience Engagement**: By including familiar musical elements, the broadcast appealed to a broader audience. Many listeners tuned in for the music and were drawn into the story as it unfolded, which contributed to the widespread panic that ensued when the fictional alien invasion was presented as real news. Overall, the combination of an orchestra and musical breaks was a strategic choice that enhanced the storytelling and contributed to the broadcast's impact on its audience.