Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back with the MSO

Overview

When Darth Vader told Luke Skywalker that they're more than just mortal enemies, it became one of the most famous lines of dialogue in movie history (and one of the most mis-quoted). If you've seen Star Wars: Episode V — The Empire Strikes Back, you'll know that it's a powerful, memorable moment that changes the shape of the entire space saga. Even if you haven't, you know what we're talking about.

Now, imagine just how epic it'll feel when you're watching the flick on a big screen and listening to John Williams' iconic score played by a live orchestra. Yes, The Force is strong in Melbourne once more, with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra staging the next in its series of Star Wars events with four screenings and performances on December 14, 15 and 16 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Jedis, wookiees and droids alike can expect three nights of tussles between the Rebels and the Empire, Luke learning his true parentage, Han flirting with Leia and getting frozen in carbon, Chewbacca being awesome, R2-D2 being adorable and C-3PO being annoying (well, he is). Plus, it's the flick that marks the first appearance of Lando Calrissian and the first time 'The Imperial March' is heard.

Conductor Nicholas Buc will be leading the charge again, and expect an energetic performance — it's his favourite Star Wars score. "Williams' bombastic music for Darth Vader has since come to represent everything evil in the Star Wars universe and, combined with his new love theme for Han and Leia, this score improves on everything that he started in Episode IV," he notes. Buc will also discuss the score with film experts Dr Dan Golding and Andrew Pogson in four pre-concert talks — at 6.15pm on Friday, 11.45am or 6.15pm on Saturday and 11.45am on Sunday.

Prices start at $35 for restricted view and $49 for D Reserve. To purchase tickets, visit the MSO website.

Updated: December 7