Cosplay at Carnegie? On Friday night, it was in full “force” as the New York Pops paid tribute to the global phenomenon Star Wars –and to John Williams, the composer of all eleven films within the beloved franchise.
The smash hit series has legions of passionate fans, many of whom came to the Hall on Friday night dressed as Shadow Storm Troopers, Darth Vadar, and other recognizable characters from Hollywood director George Lucas’ creative mind. Even conductor Steven Reineke joined in on the fun as he returned from intermission dressed as Jedi master Obi-Wan Kenobi. “As if I wasn’t hot enough in this suit,” he joked, and quickly removed the robe.
Reineke and his magnificent orchestra certainly earned their paychecks. One rarely considers the physical stamina it requires to traverse a cinematic score, particularly when it’s from the Action/Adventure genre. Yet here they all were, playing selections from each Star Wars movie in chronological order and doing it with such zest that each one was met with applause before it was even performed.
However, those unfamiliar with the series were still hugely entertained. John Williams’ signature style is always thrilling to hear. “The Main Title” from Episode IV, a New Hope is instantly recognizable across generations. Hearing it performed live was other-worldly
The audience also enjoyed the NY Pops debut of a four-movement suite from Star Wars: Episode IX- The Rise of Skywalker. They were given special permission to perform it since it is not yet published.
The concert opened the fortieth season of the New York Pops and Reineke took a moment to acknowledge the members who have been playing with the orchestra from the very beginning.
Usually Pops concerts include special guest vocalists, but Friday night rightly belonged exclusively to the orchestra. Next month, they’ll return to the Carnegie Hall stage on Friday November 18th with stage stars Nikki Renée Daniels, Jordan Donica, Matt Doyle, Melissa Errico and Essential Voices USA. Together, they’ll perform a night of Broadway Blockbusters.
For tickets and information about the New York Pops, click here.