Since the first movie in 1977 we have seen 5 other Star Wars film productions spanning over 25 years.
Massively popular with people of all ages it is not surprising that the orchestra music (scores) from the movies is recognised as much and held in equal esteem.
For the delight of any fans there was a return of 'Star Wars in Concert' performances of composer John Williams music at the O2 Arena in North Greenwich on Saturday and Sunday this Easter weekend. Since I was lucky enough to have a couple of tickets I popped down to the Dome with a friend to see what it was all about.
From the outset I was impressed; the O2 has a very large auditorium boasting well positioned comfy seats. The stage area setup had space for a full orchestra with some very nice multi-media equipment including display lasers, a huge LED super-screen and a cinema screen on the back wall to show movie clips and live filming of the orchestra playing. Attached to gantry above there are many studio type lights and a large array of speakers all of which reach to the very corners of the Arena. There are toilets with easy access and various places to buy food and drink but be warned the prices for snacks are rather high!
Anyone who knows Star Wars will surely recognise the pompous gold coloured droid C3PO and the actor Anthony Daniels who played him. From the second he walked on stage I was wowed, I would have never dreamt I would have seen him in the flesh when I was at school and putting Star Wars stickers in my album, it was so long ago. I was thrilled to see a familiar Star Wars actor from all six movies narrating the show.
In the Star Wars story there is a battle between the forces of good and evil. The Republic want galactic peace to continue and the Empire who want to rule by force. On each side there are special warriors called the Jedi Kinghts who have natural powers given to them by the mysterious Force, some good and some who have entered the Dark Side. All Jedi's fight for their cause. The Star Wars story follows lots of wonderful main characters on both sides and visits many different alien worlds, with starships, land and space battles and an evil planet destroying weapon called The Death Star.
Anthony Daniels in his own unique style introduced us to each chapter of the Concert storyline. Each part was about 10 mins long and consisted of a continually fantastic performance of The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra directed by Dirk Bross and essential cinematic clips on the screen behind. Sometimes very reminiscent of C3PO his lively performance was witty, funny, light-hearted and refreshing; helping to structure the show and keep the audience informed and focussed. Listening to the music I was glued to the screen.
The producers did a very good job of selecting which clips to show, many fans favourites I am sure. The footage included dialogue from the actors and actresses which complemented the orchestra's efforts perfectly.
'Star Wars in Concert' will appeal to anyone, young and old, who is a fan of the Star Wars movies or young enough to want to enjoy them for the first time. Prepare to be amazed with the effect the live orchestra has together with the Cinema content. Whether you go with friends or as a family, this show will have enough to entertain you for the full two hours. I recommend it, I had a very good time.
If you are interested, there is a matinee and evening performance on Tuesday 6th April at the Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle upon Tyne. Tickets are available from many online sources and box offices; tickets cost from £30.
Unfortunately there seem to be limited concerts and venues this time around but due to its popularity I am sure there will be more Concerts at UK venues in the future.
Petraeus: Quran-burning harms troopsThe U.S. commander in Afghanistan criticized a U.S. church's plan to burn copies of the Quran on September 11, warning the event "could cause significant problems" for troops.
