May 4th has been dubbed International Star Wars day (because of the pun on “May the Force be with you” – clever) and to mark the event an ‘Invasion’ is happening at City West.
Are you ready for the return of the Jedis, Darth Vader, Chewy, Hans Solo and Princess Leia? Well you better get ready, because all your favourite Star Wars characters are set to return to Dublin in Ireland’s largest Star Wars event, Invasion.
Invasion’s line-up boasts a new selection of actors, finely reproduced sets and an in-depth educational programme of talks and demonstrations. But not the kind you got back in school – the ones that bored the pants off you.
A first for Invasion, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about space travel, what makes robots tick, and also to see how Emerald Garrison (Ireland’s largest Star Wars costuming club) recreates the magic of the Star Wars movies.
Thankfully, the event is in a galaxy that’s not too far away (Citywest), so fans of all ages will have the opportunity to view the incredibly detailed replica props, sets and backdrops created by Emerald Garrison. Even if you’re not a fan of the franchise, the level of detail is definitely worth seeing.
So what’s in store if you do decide to head down to Citywest for the May Bank Holiday? Well, this year’s attractions include life-size replicas of R2-D2, a Y-Wing fighter, a Scout Walker and a Bantha-II cargo skiff from Return of the Jedi.
Just some of the characters you’ll see at Invasion Dublin
But that’s not all. A cast of intergalactic heroes and villains from storm troopers to alien musicians will be on hand to perform re-enactments, and the Jedi Academy will be open to give guidance to young padwans.
So far, for 2012, Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett) has confirmed his return and he will be joined by new arrival Mike Edmonds (Logray).
According to John McDonald, organiser of Invasion Dublin,: “There were two Invasion events last year, each one attracting over 12,000 visitors who witnessed the craftsmanship of the props and the detail and quality of the costumes.
“This is the third year of Invasion Dublin and we’re very excited about some of the educational talks and demonstrations this year.”
Tickets for Invasion Dublin (with up to 50% off from last year) are on sale now from www.Invasion.ie. Invasion continues its support for Irish Autism Action, so you can be happy knowing it’s helping a good cause.
[Images via Emerald Garrison Flicker]
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