The Arizona Science Center took a bold step into the future last fall when it debuted the refurbished Dorrance Planetarium and renamed it the Dorrance DOME. But during the first weekend in May, the venue will invite visitors to experience a time long ago in a galaxy far, far away. From May 1-4, the Dorrance DOME will host several Star Wars viewing parties in celebration of Star Wars Day.
If you are not familiar with the cinematic holiday, it is dedicated to all things related to George Lucas’ 1977 science-fiction masterpiece. Star Wars Day is celebrated on May 4 as a playful pun on the phrase, “May the Force be with you.”
Fans of Star Wars and its prequels, sequels and television shows often celebrate by rewatching the films, participating in cosplay or attending themed events throughout the day.
While many have watched the original Star Wars countless times since its May 25, 1977, release, few have seen it on a screen like the Dorrance DOME. With a 60-foot, 8K LED dome screen, every moment, from the opening crawl to the climactic Death Star battle, will feel new.
“It’s a reimagining of what a planetarium can be,” said Jacquie Dorrance at the time of the venue’s reopening. “The Dorrance DOME will inspire generations to come, igniting curiosity and wonder in Arizonans through an immersive journey.”
Ready to see and feel the Force in a new way? The schedule of events is below. Tickets are $25 per person for Arizona Science Center members and $30 for the public.
Friday, May 1: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope
4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 3: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back
4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Monday, May 4: May the Fourth Be with You
This is an all-day celebration featuring all the films in the original trilogy.
11:30 a.m.: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi
2:30 p.m.: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope
5:30 p.m.: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back
8:30 p.m.: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi
