JASON Dononvan, X-Factor’s Rhydian and Atomic Kitten’s Liz McClarnon are among those fleeing from a Martian attack at the O2’s forthcoming War of The Worlds extravaganza.

The live , surround sound, technically-intense musical arena version of HG Wells classic tale of alien invasion returns to the Millenium Way venue on December 12.

Jason takes on the role of the Artilleryman, brought to life by David Essex in the 1978 prog rock recording, which sold 15 million copies and spawned two hit singles, Forever Autumn and Eve of the War.

“I grew up listening to this album so it’s very special to be performing one of the main roles. Everything about this show is spectacular,” he said.

Jeff Wayne who set Wells’ novel to music and conducts a 46-piece live band in the show, said a new big-screen animated film will run through this year’s production.

He’s also excited about his 35-ft tall Martian machines firing real heat rays.

“It’s become a very popular part but up until this production it was a laser light with smoke. This was the first production that we were able to convince health and safety that we can use real flame and heat, people will really be feeling it,” he said.

Another realistic effect is Liz McClarnon’s levitation when her character The Parson’s Wife, dies.

“The audience have been totally convinced, you hear them saying how did they do that?”

Justin Hayward, of the Moody Blues and Richard Burton - in the form of a giant 3D photo-realistic floating hologram – also return to play The Journalist.