NEARLY 40 years on from the first stage adaptation 'The War of the Worlds' - Alive on Stage will make its return to Liverpool's Echo Arena on December 5.

Based on HG Wells' dark Victorian novel, Jeff Wayne's musical remains a firm favourite to millions around the world.

Featuring a stellar cast including Jason Donovan, Carrie Hope Fletcher, Adam Garcia, Newton Faulkner and Nathan James.

Hollywood actor Liam Neeson will retain his role in 3D holography as The Journalist.

Mr Wayne himself will return to the podium to conduct the 9-piece Black Smoke Band and 36-piece ULLAdubULLA Strings.

Singer/songwriter Newton said: "I grew up listening to 'The War of The Worlds' and I’m playing The Sung Thoughts of The Journalist, alongside Liam Neeson and, as if that wasn’t enough, Jeff Wayne asked me really nicely.

"Also, it’s got giant Martian Fighting Machines in it.

"An actual MFM that shoots real flames out of its giant face.

"I’m very excited."

The production, mixed live in Surround Sound, will once again feature the iconic 3-tonne, 35-foot tall Martian Fighting Machine firing real flame Heat Rays at the audience, a 100-foot wide 'Animation Wall' with 2 hours of cutting edge CGI, a ground-breaking levitation effect, the incineration of a cast member in full view of the audience and leaf drops over the audience.

Tickets are available from the box office by calling 0344 8000 400 or visit www.echoarena.com/wotw