What is Shadows of the Empire?

Princess Leia, Lando Calrissian and Chewbacca race across the galaxy searching for Han Solo, tracking Boba Fett who has frozen him in carbonite. Luke Skywalker presses on with his Jedi training, haunted by the truth about his father. In the shadows, Prince Xizor of the Black Sun crime syndicate orchestrates a grand conspiracy to have Luke assassinated, pin the blame on Darth Vader, and seize Vader’s position at Emperor Palpatine’s side. It climaxes in a devastating space battle above Coruscant. Vader obliterates Xizor’s orbiting stronghold, ending Black Sun for good and clearing the way for the rescue mission that follows at Jabba’s Palace on Tatooine.

Shadows of the Empire filled one of the most tantalising gaps in the original trilogy, with a multimedia project spanning a six-issue Dark Horse comic series, a novel, a video game, and trading cards.

McNeely’s score brings the comicbook story to life musically. The original soundtrack extended CD recording was released in 1996 by Varèse Sarabande Records, performed in Glasgow by the 90-piece Royal Scottish National Orchestra with a 150-voice chorus, conducted by McNeely himself. Performed live in the UK, USA and Europe, this score has never before been performed in Australia.

Casey Philharmonic Orchestra changes that in November 2027!

More than a concert.

While the orchestra performs the score, the concert hall comes alive with artwork that shaped this legendary story — rare original-release imagery from Drew Struzan, Ralph McQuarrie and Jon Knoles, first seen in the 1996 enhanced CD soundtrack, displayed as you’ve likely never seen it before. Alongside it, all six issues of the original Dark Horse Shadows of the Empire comic series will be on display for fans to explore before the show and at interval. Casey Philharmonic Orchestra brings something rare and original to Bunjil Place.

The second half of the evening turns to the music every Star Wars fan grew up with — John Williams’ unforgettable themes, performed live by a full symphony orchestra.

Whether you’ve followed the Saga since 1977 or you’re bringing the next generation of fans along for their first taste of live orchestral Star Wars, this is a night for the whole galaxy of fans. Suitable for all ages.

Come in cosplay to join the fun and win prizes. Meet your favourite characters. Bring your best Rebel, Bounty Hunter or Imperial look.

This score has waited almost 30 years to be heard live in Australia. Don’t miss this event. From the orchestra that brought you ‘Star Wars Extravaganza’, ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Music’, ‘Wizards and Dragons’ and ‘2026 A Space Odyssey’.

🎻⚔️ Casey Philharmonic Orchestra presents

STAR WARS: SHADOWS OF THE EMPIRE

📍 Bunjil Place, Narre Warren

🎟️ Book your tickets now — may the Force be with you.