Join the CBSO for an incredible night of film with a live orchestra, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
After the destruction of the Death Star, Imperial forces continue to pursue the Rebels. After the Rebellion’s defeat on the ice planet Hoth, Luke journeys to the planet Dagobah to train with Jedi Master Yoda, who has lived in hiding since the fall of the Republic. In an attempt to convert Luke to the dark side, Darth Vader lures young Skywalker into a trap in the Cloud City of Bespin.
Over three nights at Birmingham’s legendary Symphony Hall the original trilogy was shown on the big screen and the soundtrack was accompanied by the wickedly talented City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO).
Many moons ago I was lucky enough to witness Star Wars: A Musical Journey’s opening night at the O2 Arena in London which was a different set-up to seeing a whole film play out live. I’d never witnessed anything like this before and it’s become a popular night out in recent years with umpteen films being played in this format.
Due to work commitments, I couldn’t make it to Episodes IV or VI and it seemed fitting to see Episode V live as it’s the film’s 45th anniversary this year.
Prior to the performance, my fiancé and I met up with Mark Newbold and his fabulous wife Ruth. One thing we noted was something a little odd. There were only really a handful of attendees in Star Wars t-shirts. The rest were all dolled up in their finest attire, shirts and dresses, perhaps showing that it was a mix of Star Wars fans and classical music lovers.
As we entered the auditorium it began to fill up quickly and there was, as ever, a diverse mix of punters for the show.
As the orchestra began and the film kicked off it was breathtaking to witness the film in this medium. Having seen the film hundreds of times I found myself from time to time focusing on the orchestra. What struck me was just how complex the score is and only about half a dozen times did the orchestra take a full break for a brief minute or two.
It was wonderful to see members of the orchestra when not playing turning their heads up to the screen and watching the film with the rest of us. They were chuckling along at Han’s wry humour, 3PO’s comic relief and watching in awe anytime Vader was on screen.
As ever with Star Wars these days it makes me happy to see the younger generation getting involved with the saga and just a row in front of us was a young fan who began dancing the first time the Imperial March was played.
As the end credits wrapped, the energy in the hall was electrifying and the orchestra quite rightfully received a rapturous standing ovation for a good five minutes.
If I hadn’t had been performing myself the following night I’d have been straight back to see Return of the Jedi. It left me thinking that with the 50th anniversary approaching for A New Hope in 2027 that perhaps it’s time for a worldwide tour of the film ‘In Concert’. I’d be first in line that’s for sure.