Star Wars: Episode VI — A New Hope

Overview

A long time ago, in this very galaxy, brass instruments sounded, a text crawl started and the first Star Wars film burst onto the screen. Thanks to director George Lucas and composer John Williams, it's one of the most iconic movie openings in history — and, in all of its force-wielding, Death Star-destroying, orchestra-scored glory, the sci-fi classic is making a kriffing special return.

With Star Wars: Episode VII — The Force Awakens getting the concert treatment in Melbourne in December, every jedi, wookiee, droid and even sith across the Tasman has been crossing their fingers and toes for a similar blend of Star Wars movies and music. In Wellington, those hopes and dreams are being answered with two screenings of Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope at TSB Bank Arena as part of New Zealand Festival. The film will roll, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra will perform Williams' Oscar-winning compositions, and you'll burst with a Millennium Falcon's worth of happiness.

Whether you're a huge Star Wars buff eager to ride a wave of excitement past Star Wars: Episode VIII — The Last Jedi's December release, just have a casual interest, or have no idea what the term R2-D2 means, mark March 10 and 11, 2018 in your diary and prepare to experience history — it's the first time that a live performance has accompanied A New Hope in Wellington. American conductor Hamish McKeich will lead the charge, as the country's finest provide the soundtrack to Luke Skywalker meeting Obi-Wan Kenobi, Princess Leia sending a message for help, Han Solo oozing his usual attitude and Darth Vader just being a power-hungry jerk.