The More You NOLA: 'The Force Awakens' local fandom
Though over 30 years have passed since Star Wars first introduced audiences to a galaxy far, far away, the iconic sci-fi franchise"s cultural impact is more visible than ever as fans eagerly await the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
“The avenues of entry into this fandom are multifaceted,” says Mike Griffith, an adjunct professor of communication at Tulane University.
“You have people who consider themselves huge fans that have just seen the prequels or "The Clone Wars" on Cartoon Network. Everyone has their definition of what it means to be a Star Wars fan,” says Griffith.
Griffith will discuss George Lucas" cinematic universe during his Authors and Genres film studies course next spring.
Local Jedi and Sith lords also should check out these upcoming fan events.
Star Wars Movie Marathon Pajama Party
Local event-planning group Nerd Love NOLA is collaborating with Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus" command center Castillo Blanco Art Studios (4321 St. Claude Ave.) to screen a marathon of the original trilogy during an old-school pajama party on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 5 p.m. Prepare to kick back in your Wookiee onesie, or deck yourself out in sleepwear worthy of the dark side. There will be a prize for the night"s best PJs.
Pulp Science Fiction: A Star Wars Burlesque Play
Local burlesque troupe The Society of Sin will present its Star Wars/Pulp Fiction crossover play on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 8 p.m. at Eiffel Society (2040 St. Charles Ave.). The live fan-fiction parody will put a sensual spin on the beloved characters in the most original nerdlesque production this side of Naboo.
Dance Wars: A Sci-Fi Dance Party
The Foundation Room at House of Blues New Orleans (225 Decatur St.) and Chewbacchus have partnered up to commend the new film"s opening at The Theatres at Canal Place with a second line following the 7:15 pm. screening on Thursday, Dec. 17. The second line will begin at the cinema following the film and conclude at The Foundation Room, kicking off an astronomical dance party at 9 p.m. featuring DJ Jermaine Quiz and DJ Tony Skratchere.
