Galaxypalooza was as much a dedication and admiration to the two Essex legends and all they do for the Star Wars community. Both men are humble and genuine in their fandom, they do not attack bad content supplied in the Disney era of George Lucas' vision, they are constructive in criticism but do not fawn when something is good.
There episodes range from covering new releases to video games and books. The main feed podcast was a God send to this writer during the pandemic of 2020 and an appreciation was born. Saturday afforded me the opportunity to say thank you to the guys themselves getting to chat in person along with all their followers.
For me it was a 45 minute journey by car, but for others who I spoke to they travelled by train from Carlisle the day before; car from Northampton on the morning to make a 9am opening. Vendors, artists and merchandise sellers came from Norfolk and Surrey, cosplayers by the dozen came from Kent and Medway.
This was a gathering of joy and verve, like minded people all sharing in the wonder of a galaxy far far away. The venue at times felt too small and perhaps next year the clamour for a redo may lead to a larger venue; yet these are mere quibbling points on a day that will be long remembered.
A word now upon the panels which took place in the first floor. Eight different panels took place ranging from Lego builders to fan films and Emmy Award editors to the hosts themselves discussing the Greatest Television show of all time, Andor. The Star Wars Sessions guys themselves spoke to three performers from the series - minor characters but nevertheless, all were hugely grateful for the opportunity to work in something which universally adored.
Surrounding the panel where signers for those autograph hunters. From creature performer, Ross Sambridge to Ross Beadman, who was the youngling Jedi who asks the newly anointed Lord Vader, 'Master Skywalker. What shall we do?' Others have portrayed stormtroopers (Torin Pocock) or Imperial officers (Jonathan Cass) in the two season of Andor. All the guests when interviewed spoke of their own love for the original trilogy, fans one and all.
After a long day of talking and conversing in the ways of the force, it became apparent that while it was goodbye for now, any doubter in the power and reach of Star Wars would have been dismissed as all ages and creeds were present. If you wore a helmet or brandished a lightsaber, all were welcome. And you left safe in the knowledge that if you were at Galaxypalooza on 6th June you departed knowing you had friends everywhere.
Follow Star Wars Sessions here: Star Wars Sessions - Probably Britain's Greatest Star Wars Podcast
