Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert with MSO – A Galactic Triumph
Stepping into Hamer Hall at Arts Centre Melbourne for Star Wars: The Force Awakens in concert with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) was like boarding a starship bound for a galaxy far, far away. This cinematic spectacle, pairing the 2015 blockbuster with a live performance of John Williams’ iconic score, was nothing short of a hyperspace jump into pure magic. The MSO, conducted by the masterful Benjamin Northey, delivered an unforgettable evening that left the audience buzzing with excitement and awe.
From the moment the opening crawl blazed across the screen, accompanied by the MSO’s thunderous rendition of the legendary Star Wars theme, the atmosphere was electric. The walls of the hall were emblazoned with First Order and Rebel Alliance symbols, splitting the space into a striking homage to the light and dark sides of the Force. Fans sported Star Wars T-shirts and wielded glowing lightsabers, with some kids proudly wearing their Jedi robes, filling the hall with infectious energy. They cheered wildly at every iconic moment—Rey’s first slide down the Jakku dunes, the Millennium Falcon’s daring escape, and Kylo Ren’s chilling confrontations. The crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable, turning the event into a communal celebration of a beloved saga, with applause erupting not just for the film’s heroes but for the orchestra’s breathtaking performance.
The MSO’s musicians showcased exceptional talent, wielding their instruments with the precision of Jedi knights wielding lightsabers. Every note of John Williams’ score—from the soaring optimism of “Rey’s Theme” to the ominous weight of “The March of the Resistance”—was executed with flawless clarity and emotional depth. The strings danced through the delicate, hopeful motifs, while the brass roared with the grandeur of the First Order’s menace. The percussion section, in particular, drove the pulse of the action sequences, their expert timing syncing perfectly with the film’s visuals. Not a single cue was missed, amplifying the drama and nostalgia of J.J. Abrams’ revival of the Star Wars universe.
What made this experience truly transcendent was the MSO’s ability to breathe new life into a score that’s already etched into pop culture history. The live performance added a visceral intensity, making every lightsaber clash and X-wing dogfight feel as fresh as if it were the first viewing in 2015. The audience was swept up in the atmosphere, with spontaneous cheers for Han Solo’s return and gasps during the film’s emotional peaks, all heightened by the orchestra’s dynamic interplay. It was as if the MSO was a character in the story, guiding us through the deserts of Jakku, the snowy forests of Starkiller Base, and the heartfelt reunions of old friends.
This wasn’t just a screening; it was a galactic event that fused the power of cinema with the raw emotion of live music. The MSO’s impeccable artistry, paired with the crowd’s unbridled excitement, created a night that felt like a Force awakening of its own. Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan or a newcomer to the saga, this concert was a reminder of why John Williams’ music and this universe continue to captivate hearts across generations.
Summary: A stellar, unforgettable journey that proves the Force is strong with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Although, the Hammer Hall seats are bit unforgiving for the duration!
5
Symphony Wars!
About the Author
Scott De Lacy Scott has a professional IT background spanning over 18 years, is an hobbyist electronics designer, talented musician, holds qualifications as a trainer and experience in emergency and community services sectors. He reviews Movies, PC and XBOX One games, and hardware.
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