Best-selling novelist John Irving spoke about 19th century novels, his writing process and farting dogs at the State Theatre on Wednesday night -- all projected live on a big screen via satellite from New York City.

Mae Sevick, who has previously attended the "TimesTalks" in Manhattan, said the event made her feel at home even though Irving wasn't there in person.

"Even the color of the seats was the same," Sevick said.

Broadcast to 20 theaters in several states, the program was an in-depth interview with Irving conducted by New York Times journalist Charles McGrath.

The event included discussion on Irving's latest book, "Last Night in Twisted River," as well as his novel, "The Cider House Rules." Irving cited the 19th century novel, "The Mayor of Casterbridge," as one of his biggest influences because of its dynamic plot. In his opinion, it has the best first chapter of any novel in the English language.

"The guy gets so drunk he loses his wife and daughter in a bet," Irving said. "I mean, you can't get any better than that."

Irving said that while writing his books, he consciously creates characters that readers will grow to love.

"My job is to figure out the worst things that can happen to them," he said.

Kristy Cyone, marketing director for the State Theatre, said she hopes satellite broadcasts like these will allow more people to experience The Metropolitan Opera and future "TimesTalks" interviews.

"It's really an interesting and intimate way to view these events," Cyone said.

Sevick said there could have been more publicity for the program, as the crowd that attended the program was small.

"I think it's important to broaden these cultural events that are easily accessible for people who live in the city," Sevick said.

A similar interview with Stephen King is scheduled for broadcast at the State Theatre on Nov. 10.