Get ready to blast off into a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars A New Hope In Concert and the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Our family’s experience at this event was nothing short of spectacular, and I’m excited to share not only our story but also some essential tips for families planning to embark on this interstellar journey.

Since he was five, my son has been the ultimate Star Wars fan, and now at 11, his enthusiasm for the saga hasn’t waned a bit – if anything, it’s grown! It’s amazing how his love for Star Wars has rubbed off on the rest of us. Family movie nights, once a mix of different genres, are now often dedicated to a galaxy far, far away. We find ourselves discussing character arcs at dinner and even planning Halloween costumes months in advance (you guessed it, Star Wars themed!). His passion for the series, complete with an impressive collection of trivia and an ever-expanding array of memorabilia, has truly turned our home into a Star Wars haven.

So, we thought a surprise trip to the Long Center would be a huge hit! The kids had no idea about our destination until we arrived! The thrill in their eyes when they realized we were about to watch Star Wars with a live orchestra was unforgettable.

The Austin Symphony Orchestra brought the movie to life in a way that’s hard to put into words. As an orchestra enthusiast, I was in awe of the music’s power to transform a classic film into an immersive experience. It wasn’t just watching a movie; it was feeling every emotion amplified by the live score.

If you’re planning to take your family to this phenomenal event, here are some tips to enhance your experience:

  1. Star Wars Movie Night: Watch some of the other movies in the series at home before the concert. It sets the mood and helps kids connect with the music and scenes during the live performance.
  2. Dress Up: Wear Star Wars-themed clothes or costumes. It’s fun and makes for great photos! We saw some create shirts and costumes!
  3. Early Arrival: Arrive at the Long Center early to avoid any rush and settle comfortably. There was plenty to see and do (photo ops, chance to mingle with other fans and characters)
  4. Concert Etiquette: Brief your kids on concert behavior. It’s a balance between enjoying the moment and being respectful of others.
  5. Order Snacks: Intermission is short. The Long Center had the ability for us to order our intermission snacks ahead of time (another reason to arrive early) and then pick them up at intermission, which saved a ton of time!

The Star Wars concert was more than just an evening out; it was a journey into the heart of one of the greatest stories ever told, accompanied by a majestic orchestra. For any family who loves music, cinema, or just a good adventure, this is a must-experience event. So grab your lightsabers and prepare for a night that’s truly out of this world!

By Tiana

Tiana Kubik has a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education from the Erikson Institute, in Chicago. After teaching Pre-K-Kindergarten for almost ten years, Tiana moved on to run a Chicago-based photography company with her husband, with kids in tow for the last eleven years. Since 2021, Tiana has also began freelancing as Content Creator for Small Business.