"Star Wars in Concert" with C-3PO wearing a tux

Star Wars in Concert was almost everything I expected and everyone performed flawlessly. Not as defining as it could have been. Anthony Daniels plays a major role narrating throughout the entire performance. Within the first 15 minutes I get the impression of what's in store. Entertaining yes, but it's nothing more than a collection of highlights and mostly speechless clips viewed on a Hi-def big screen with live music. Anthony Daniels comes and goes popping on and off stage either disappearing or simply sits in a corner until cued. Star Wars in Concert is a show that focuses more on the orchestra and the music behind the Star Wars saga. The impressive big screen, Anthony Daniels and the special effects enhance this experience that will give even the oldest hardcore fan something new to remember for a lifetime.

During the (must attend) pre-show I decided to take a peak at the seating and couldn't help but notice a fog or haze filling the entire stadium. Several smoke machines and big ones! It's for the laser lighting effects which were used sparingly and mostly throughout the second half. Bring your camera and get some once in a lifetime shots with your favorite character. It'll take a while but well worth the wait to get one with "Darth Vader". The costumes worn by the characters are as close to authentic as I've ever seen.

The pre-show was almost as entertaining as the main event so be sure and arrive early to take pictures with your favorite character. I'm disappointed there was no Wookie but I did get a picture of me with Darth Vader. He had on a very realistic impressive looking costume. Plenty of other props and pictures to see so get there at least an hour early.

Now for what I didn't expect. Months ago I paid $150 each through a pre-sale with AMEX for 2 floor seats. Great seats in the 6th row towards the front right however, the live cameras at each end of the stage shooting the orchestra were very distracting. They are very large cameras on 20 foot robotic boom that were in plain view and blocking the big screen. During the intermission I explained the situation to the camera operator. He fully understood and backed away 6 feet. I thanked him later for making the rest of the show uneventful. Lots of unthoughtful kids and rude parents talking throughout, and of course where can you go without a few cell phones ringing.

Favorite moment:

Pyrotechnics that could be felt while the huge HD screen played clips of young Darth Vader as he was defeated by Obi Wan on the lava planet.

Most disappointing moment:

During the pre-show and after running around in circles looking to take my picture with a "Wookie" we were told there wasn't one. ):

Starting with 5 I'm giving this show 3-Stars. They've got a few rough edges: (-1) Way overpriced. (-1) The distracting camera blocking my view and having a fully functioning smoke machine 20 feet away, the talking kids and parents on cell phones. Honestly having all these things happening simultaneously made me want to walk out or get security. Even though I had the best seats in the house (portable fold up cushioned chairs) I got stuck with some of the rudest people. This did take from my experience of the show. Because of such a diverse audience don't be surprised with the taking kids and their parents talking on cell phones. I still recommend seeing Star Wars in Concert. Having the pricier seats doesn't mean anything except you'll feel some heat and be that much closer to seeing Anthony Daniels.

Bottom line:

Anthony Daniels (not in costume) shares a few words with the audience to set each and every upcoming musical score. My overall impression however was I felt as though I was simply watching a dozen or so 6-8 minute trailers on a giant HD screen with a live orchestra. This show is all about the music in Star Wars and those wanting to expand their Star Wars experience won't be disappointed.

Furthermore:

This is a family event but I suggest leaving the little droids at home. Have fun and may the force be with you, always.

Viewed @ ARCO Arena 10-9-2009. Bring lots of extra cash for: Parking $12, Hot Dog $4.50, 24 onz Bud $8.50, T-shirt $30-40, Program $30, after the show $20