Valley’s place in Star Wars lore to be part of discussion panel

Imperial County Film Commissioner Charla Teeters will be participating as a panelist at Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim later this month.

This annual event, to be held May 26-29 at the Anaheim Convention Center, is described as the ultimate Star Wars fan experience. It includes immersive exhibits and experiences, screenings, announcements, celebrity guests, exclusive merchandise and informative discussion panels.

The Imperial Valley has a long history with the franchise, dating back to the filming of the Sarlacc pit monster scene for “Return of the Jedi,” and most recently with the “Obi-Wan” series for Disney+. In February, the Film Commission was approached to participate on a panel that will discuss Star Wars tourism and how franchise fans can visit the locations of their favorite films and television series.

“I am happy to have the opportunity to represent and promote Imperial County at such a significant event.” Teeters said, “I think the topic of film tourism is an important and timely subject for the Film Commission to tackle.”

She added, “Film tourism is an important revenue stream for our region and the appearance of our unique and awe-inspiring landscapes in a film or television series can significantly increase the number of visitors that come to our county with the desire to visit another world and to step in the footsteps of their favorite characters.”

The panel, Star Wars Tourism: Visiting the Galaxy Far, Far Away on Earth, will be held from 2-3 p.m. on May 27 on the University Stage.

Tickets for the Star Wars Celebration are available, while supplies last, at StarWarsCelebration. com. “Obi-Wan” premieres May 27 on Disney+.