Science Fiction Theatre
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Science Fiction Theatre
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| Episodes: | 78 |
| Year: | 1955-1957 |
| Country: | United States |
| Seasons: | 2 |
| Seasons Breakdown: | (1) 39, (2) 39. |
| Category: | Anthology |
| Colour: | Yes |
| Format: | Anthology |
| Company: | Ivan Tors Productions and Ziv Television Programs |
| Creator: | Hendrik Vollaerts, Ivan Tors, Stuart Jerome, Jerry Sackheim and Lou Huston (writers) |
| Run Time (mins): | 25-26 |
| Language: | English |
| Type of Show: | Live Action |
| Status: | Ended |
| Broadcaster: | Syndicated |
| First Aired: | April 9, 1955 |
| Last Aired: | February 9, 1957 |
Summary
Science Fiction Theatre was a mid‑1950s American anthology series designed to present speculative narratives grounded in contemporary scientific knowledge. Conceived as a serious, fact‑based alternative to more fantastical science‑fiction programming of the period, the series framed each episode around a specific scientific principle, theory, or emerging technology.
Hosted by Truman Bradley, each instalment opened with a brief demonstration or explanation of the scientific concept that would underpin the forthcoming drama. This documentary‑style introduction set the tone for the programme’s didactic approach: episodes frequently devoted substantial screen time to scientific exposition, sometimes at the expense of dramatic pacing or character development. The series’ commitment to scientific plausibility also meant that unusual or extraordinary events were often described verbally rather than depicted visually, reflecting both its educational ambitions and the production limitations of the era.
Although some episodes now appear dated , particularly those centred on technologies that were speculative at the time but later became commonplace, such as teleconferencing or advanced surgical procedures like heart transplants , the programme also explored themes that remain central to science fiction. These included UFO phenomena, telepathy, space travel, and cryogenics, all presented through the lens of mid‑century scientific curiosity.
Cast
Narrator TRUMAN BRADLEY, Including VINCENT PRICE, VERA MILES, EDMUND GWENN, WILLIAM LUNDIGAN, DEFOREST KELLY. --- Tags: Anthology, United States, 1955, English
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