Star Wars: In Concert a Feast for the Ears, Eyes

Fire shooting out of the stage, strobe lights, a giant LCD screen, and a laser show--just another day at the orchestra. Star Wars: In Concert brought together a live performance of the saga's music and a number of special effects to create a truly unique experience.

The performance was narrated by Anthony Daniels, who played C-3PO in the six films. Over 80 musicians and 100 choir members filled the stage at Mellon Arena. The stage was backed by one of the largest LCD screens ever taken on tour, which showed scenes from the films.

To play music as popular as the themes from Star Wars is no easy task, knowing that any shortcoming will be instantly recognized by the 10,000 audience members. The sound, however, was recording quality. The videos shown were similar to those found in Star Wars: A Musical Journey, which accompanies the Episode III soundtrack.

Costumed characters roamed the corridors, stopping to pose for pictures. Original Darth Vader, Chewbacca, and Queen Amidala costumes were displayed.

Star Wars' music was written by John Williams, composer of numerous film scores including Superman, Harry Potter, and Home Alone. Williams also composed the scores for the majority of Steven Spielberg's films--including Jaws, Indiana Jones, and Schindler's List. Williams even composed the Olympic Fanfare and Theme.

Spielberg introduced Williams to Star Wars creator George Lucas, who felt that the soundtrack of the film would be an essential aspect of the films.

The grand sounds of "Duel of the Fates" and "Battle of the Heroes" were balanced by the lighter parts of "Across the Stars," the saga's love theme, and "Yoda's Theme." Princess Leia's theme stood out with its balanced incorporation of flute, violin, and French horn. "The Cantina Band" was a treat as it is a stark contrast to the rest of the music with an emphasis on saxophones and unusual percussive elements.

The concert's only shortcoming was the lack of live shots of the musicians on the screen. More emphasis should have been placed on the live performance, as fans can watch the DVDs or listen to the CDs until their hearts are content, but to watch the orchestra perform will likely be a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The atmosphere was most uncommon for orchestral performance, with cotton candy vendors roving the isles and many attendees in jeans and Steelers jerseys. (Well, it was game day!)

Star Wars: In Concert is similar to The Pittsburgh Symphony's performance of The Lord of the Rings' soundtrack, in 2005. Both concerts were very well done and an excellent way to get a new crowd of movie goers and kids to experience an orchestra.

For the two of you out there that will understand this: Yes, Episode I shots of Yoda were CGI.