See 'Star Wars: A New Hope' with live music by Montgomery Symphony Orchestra

The music of "Star Wars: A New Hope" isn't something Montgomery Symphony Orchestra members have to Force themselves to remember. After all, they play selections from it on a regular basis.

But Thursday, Sept. 21, is something a little more special. Prepare for a 7 p.m. theater screening of George Lucas' 1977 space classic that kicked off a Death Star-sized franchise — and left the world wondering why Lucas started it off in the middle of his tale with Episode IV.

As the film plays at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre — showing the introduction of Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Han Solo, Chewbacca, R2-D2 and C-3PO — MSO will be on stage just below the screen performing "Star Wars" music composed by John Williams.

It's the story of Skywalker teaming with old Jedi knight Obi-Wan and pilot Han Solo to rescue Leia from Darth Vader.

"The way the music is composed is so directly related to all the characters and the story," said Jamie Reeves, MSO's music director and conductor. "It's a powerful experience, and a really exciting one."

He said having the orchestra on stage brings he music closer to the audience — instead of being lost behind the dialogue and action. "You really feel a stronger connection to the music and the drama in the movie."

Bryan Reeves, who is both MSO's executive director and first trumpet player, said he enjoys playing the "Star Wars" music that doesn't get used in other live MSO performances.

"It's going to be awesome," he said. "It's a lot of fun to play, and it's unique and exciting. It's a concert going experience and a movie going experience all in one."

While the soundtrack is all performed live by MSO — with the exception of the Chalmun's Spaceport Cantina band (Figrin D'an and the Modal Nodes) music — all the dialogue and iconic sound effects remain from the original film: blasters, Darth Vader breathing, R2-D2, Chewbacca's roars and more.

"We don't have to make the lightsaber sounds," Jamie Reeves said. "I'm glad we don't, because I'm not sure how to make them."

Though theaters for movie screenings are often as dark as the depth of space, guests will be able to watch the orchestra as it performs.

"We want the screen to be clearly visible and the movie projected with the highest quality available," Jamie Reeves said. "But it's also important that the orchestra is seen."

He welcomes the audience to put its "Star Wars" fandom on display as well. They're invited to dress as their favorite characters. "I hope we see some costumes and 'Star Wars' T-shirts and all of that."

This is MSO's second voyage into full-length movie scores with a film screening. In 2022, they did it with Stephen Speilberg's 1993 T-Rex sized mega hit "Jurassic Park." That movie score is also by Williams.

"We certainly have learned a lot," said Bryan Reeves. "I would say that this second one, in terms of the technical side, is a bit more comfortable now that we have one under our belt."

He said the movies in concert concept has been done in other areas, and they're glad to bring it to Montgomery — rather than locals having to drive to places like Birmingham, Atlanta or Nashville to experience it.

So does MSO have any "Star Wars" geeks among its ranks? Jamie Reeves believes so, saying a couple of the musicians are particularly excited.

"There has to be in all of us a 'Star Wars' lover, because the music is so great," Jamie Reeves said.

Tickets range from $25 to $60. They're available online at mpaconline.org, or by calling the MPAC box office at 334-481-5100.

Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel covers things to do in the River Region. Contact him at sheupel@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: See 'Star Wars' with live music from Montgomery Symphony Orchestra