A long time ago in a cinema far, far away, movie buffs were about to see something which would go on to be a worldwide phenomenon.

When Star Wars opened in 1977, no one imagined that 38 years later film fans would be clamouring for a seventh instalment, but here we are in 2015 awaiting the opening of Star Wars – The Force Awakens on Friday, December 17.

Back in 1977, British designer Tom Beauvais was busy creating the original concept artwork for the film, complete with lightsaber, Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia with her trademark hairstyle.

His colleague Tom Chantrell’s artwork was eventually chosen for the film, so his work has never been seen – until now.

It has gone on show at Canterbury’s Beaney museum, along with some limited edition prints and sought-after merchandise from the Star Wars films, ahead of the release of the newest movie.

The exhibition includes both the highly collectable vintage toys and also the iconic design work.

The design brief

When the Star Wars design brief landed on Tom Beauvais’ desk in 1977, 20th Century Fox were looking for something which would show action but with more emphasis on the human characters.

He was working in competition with colleague Tom Chantrell at Chapman Beauvais design firm, whose work was chosen.

His Star Wars work may not have been used, but he went on to make some of the most iconic movie images for high-profile films including Fantastic Voyage, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Shining, Blade Runner and Mad Max.

The toy story

In the 1970s, the market for Star Wars merchandise had not really been tested, and filmmakers had no idea it could earn more than the movies themselves.

The toys of Star Wars took the world by storm – so much so that from 1977 to 1985 an estimated 300 million action figures were sold, allowing children to re-enact the adventures of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia and Han Solo.

Playtime

With an exhibition about toys, it’s only fair that there’s some time to play!

The Beaney is running a series of themed events, talks and children’s workshops. On Wednesday, December 16 between 1pm and 3pm in the Learning Lab you can drop in and have fun making badges of your favourite characters, or creating a finger puppet to take home. Entry is £2.50 per child while accompanying adults go free.

On Monday, December 28, use The Force – and craft materials – to make a mask of your favourite Star Wars characters, including Darth Vader, Chewbacca and Yoda, between 1pm and 3pm. It also costs £2.50 per child with accompanying adults free.

Exhibition details

May The Toys Be With You will be on in the Special Exhibitions Room at the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge in Canterbury High Street until Sunday, March 6.

There is no entry fee but the museum operates a ‘pay what you can’ policy. For details go to www.canterbury.co.uk/beaney