Bradford Live will host an out-of-this-world concert next spring when the Orchestra of Opera North performs The Music of Star Wars on Sunday 3 May 2026, bringing the power of a 70-piece symphony orchestra to one of cinema’s most iconic soundtracks.
Timed perfectly ahead of Star Wars Day (“May the Fourth”), the performance will take audiences on a musical journey through the galaxy far, far away, from the rousing Main Title and Imperial March to Princess Leia’s Theme, Yoda’s Theme, Throne Room, and Across the Stars.
Presented by Bradford Live in partnership with Opera North, the concert will transform the city’s new 3,000-seat venue into a haven for film fans and music lovers alike. “If you think it sounds good in the cinema, wait until you hear it played live,” organisers said. “John Williams’ music is every bit as much the soul of Star Wars as the lightsabers or the Millennium Falcon.”
The concert has already been praised by Classic FM, who called it “a magical chance to hear one of the world’s greatest soundtracks performed by our friends at the Orchestra of Opera North, bring on the brass section!”
The event forms part of Bradford Live’s growing 2026 programme, showcasing the venue’s transformation from the city’s former Odeon Cinema, built in the 1930s, into a £50 million, state-of-the-art entertainment hub.
Following its grand opening earlier this year, Bradford Live has quickly established itself as one of the North’s premier music destinations, hosting live concerts, comedy, and film screenings that celebrate both heritage and modern creativity.
“Bradford Live is the beating heart of the city, a world-class venue for world-class performances,” said Venue Marketing Executive Gemma Russell-Abbey. “We’re thrilled to bring this spectacular concert to fans of all ages. Lightsabers are welcome!”
