'Star Wars': In Concert

You don't have to be a tech geek or "Star Wars" freak to appreciate the music from George Lucas' epic sci-fi saga. After all, how many people can't immediately name that tune when the signature notes from John Williams' "Star Wars Theme" play? And who can forget the memorable bar music from the first film in the series?

"Star Wars: In Concert" celebrates the music as well as the movies with a full symphony orchestra, chorus and a giant LED screen that displays classic scenes  from the films that are synchronized to the music. Fire geysers also erupt during key moments for a visceral effect, while laser lights strafe the venue like starships locked in battle.

As a bonus for the hard-core "Star Wars" fans, Anthony Daniels, the actor who portrayed C-3PO in all of the "Star Wars" films, introduces each segment during the two-hour show. And each performance also includes an exhibit of props and costumes used in the movies, including some that have been locked away in the Lucasfilm archives and never seen before in public.

The "Star Wars: In Concert" tour runs through Dec. 13, with stops in many major U.S. and Canadian cities. Not only is it a chance to relive the memorable music and scenes from this cinematic cultural touchstone, it's also a great way to introduce kids to a symphonic experience.

At least that's the excuse ... or, um, Jedi mind trick T&G used to attend a recent performance in the Pacific Northwest.

-- Posted by Doug Newcomb, special to MSN Tech & Gadgets