Strap yourselves in and make the jump to light speed this June 2023, as one of the country's best collections of vintage Star Wars toys and memorabilia is coming to the Museum of Gloucester.
May The Toys Be With You gives Star Wars fans the chance to get up close to some of the rarest collectibles and most popular toys in the universe, as well as admiring artwork and cinema posters for the iconic movies.
Despite smashing box office records when they were released, Star Wars merchandise ended up making more than the movies themselves, with around 300 million action figures being sold between 1977 and 1985 alone.
Since then, Star Wars toys have become some of the most highly sought-after collectibles in the world for people of all ages, with everything from lightsabers and action figures to X-wing Starfighters and Millennium Falcons gracing the shelves of adults and children alike.
Exhibition curator, Matt Fox, said: 'Since first seeing Star Wars as a wide-eyed five-year-old, it has never ceased to fill me with a sense of childhood wonder. A bit of that magic is captured in the fantastical art of the cinema posters and the designs of the vintage toys. It is a privilege to share my collection and some of that magic with you!'
Cabinet member for culture at Gloucester City Council, councillor Andrew Lewis, added: 'I am delighted that such a popular and prestigious exhibition is coming soon to a museum near you and I have no doubt that the team at the museum will make this a spectacular show to remember for all ages young and old, kids big and small.
'All audiences will find something of interest and we aim to provide something for all interests, whether you are a seasoned visitor or a new visitor to the museum, we look forward to the force guiding you in your visit.'
The record-breaking exhibition is at the Museum of Gloucester from Saturday 24 June until Saturday 30 September 2023, with the Gloucestershire Troopers taking to the streets for the opening.