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35 spoiler-free tips for Secret Cinema: Empire Strikes Back

23 June, 2015 — by Christopher Ratcliff150

Please note: for our recent guide to the latest 2018 event, read our spoiler free tips for Secret Cinema: Blade Runner.

Unlike the novelisation of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, this will be utterly spoiler-free I promise. Nothing I say in these 35 tips will do anything to hinder your enjoyment of this summer’s Secret Cinema Star Wars spectacular, but they will offer you some practical advice to help you make the most out of your time there.

secret cinema empire strikes back poster

35 spoiler-free tips for Secret Cinema: Empire Strikes Back

  1. It’s stupidly brilliant. You should definitely go.
  2. Like really, stupidly, amazingly brilliant.
  3. Seriously, even if you only like Star Wars a tiny bit, you will still have the best time ever.
  4. It’s also totally worth the money. Honestly. The Secret Cinema people have spent every penny of the ticket price on smacking you in the face with cool shit. I initially balked at the £75 price, but if you compare it to a West End show, this is way better value for money.
  5. If you want a ticket for a sold-out day, just look on the Facebook page during the week before you want to go. There are plenty of people selling spares for face value.
  6. It’s indoors, you won’t need a jacket. It does get a little warm.
  7. Just leave your smartphone at home. Don’t be the jackass who gets told off by an Imperial Officer for taking your phone out.
  8. Arrange your rendezvous the old-fashioned way and write down any directions you need before you leave the house. If someone is late meeting you, just wait longer.
  9. If you’re late for your 5:30 check-in, don’t worry, you’ll still be able to leave with the 6:30 wave.
  10. Wear a watch.
  11. No one is going to hassle you if you don’t go in costume, however the one person I saw during the event who was wearing blue jeans and a red cardigan looked pretty flipping sheepish the entire time.
  12. One guy was dressed as a full-on Clone Trooper. He looked like a bell-end. Perhaps because he stood out bizarrely among the rest of us ‘rebels’ but mainly because it was a deeply anachronistic choice of costume.
  13. At the bare minimum, where whites, browns and beiges. You probably have them in your wardrobe. I wore my wife’s skimpy brown dressing gown. She won’t be getting it back.
  14. The only costume ‘requirement’ is a coloured scarf that denotes your ‘faction’. It’s only a fiver. You should get one.
  15. If you order costume from the Rebel X online store less than five days in advance, it may not arrive in time.
  16. Luckily there is a pop-up shop just off Brick Lane where you can buy everything you need. The address for Rebel Stores is 16 Cheshire Street, E2 6EH, and it’s open Tuesday – Saturday 11am-8pm and Sunday 11am-6pm. It isn’t marked in Earth language, but you’ll spot it.
  17. Although the emails say “contactless payment only” the bar still accepts non-contactless debit and credit cards.
  18. Don’t bother with cash.
  19. Don’t forget your ticket, your ID print-out that says your Star Wars name, your house-keys, Oyster Card and instructions for where you’re going.
  20. Learn your new Star Wars name.
  21. You won’t be able to go for a piss for the first hour and a half, so make sure you go before you arrive. Yes I am your new mum.
  22. If you lose the people you’re with at any point, don’t worry, although it covers a lot of ground, you’ll easily find them again as it’s not too over-crowded.
  23. You’re told to take character specific items (jewels, blueprints, seeds) depending on what faction you’re with. Definitely do this. You can buy information from the planet’s locals, who will tell you where to find secret special characters.
  24. When the opportunity arises to get food, go and do it straight away. You don’t want to get herded along to the next area while still eating a tray of very tasty satay chicken and jasmine rice (£7).
  25. There is a bar. I won’t spoil what it’s a recreation of. Just suffice to say that I wept with joy when I got there.
  26. The cocktails are surprisingly strong, tasty and, for London, reasonably priced.
  27. The bar stays open for an hour after the film. Go have a little space-boogie.
  28. There are characters selling beer outside the bar from hessian sack covered fridges. Ask for ‘engine oil’.
  29. You will get to sit down and watch the entire of Empire Strikes Back all the way through.
  30. It is the special edition. I’m sorry. At least Lucas didn’t mess with this one too much.
  31. Sit on the left-hand side of the row, it’s easier to get to the people selling booze.
  32. It’s very easy to get shit-faced during the film. I highly recommend it. A bottle of wine is £20 and the little cans of craft beer are really nice. I forget how much they were. I was shit-faced.
  33. Empire Strikes Back is just as brilliant and easy to riff along to as you remember it. Yoda’s the best bit. The AT-ATs (also called “Darth Vader’s car” by a fellow writer/moron elsewhere on this site) are the second best bit. Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher shouting unconvincingly at each other is the worst bit. It’s the second best sequel ever made! Behind Grease 2 obvs.
  34. Just go. You owe it to yourself. The genius behind this particular Secret Cinema is that it manages to make you feel even more excited than you did when you watched Star Wars for the first time as a kid, because this time you can drink alcohol and watch an actual lightsab… Wait, I’ve said too much.
  35. Secret Cinema is on till the end of September. You still have plenty of time to go.

For more cinematic adventures in the capital, check out our guide to London Film Events, including the latest FrightFest event.

star wars transporter over London

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Summary
35 spoiler-free tips for Secret Cinema: Empire Strikes Back
Title:
35 spoiler-free tips for Secret Cinema: Empire Strikes Back
Description:
35 practical tips to help you make the most out of your time at Secret Cinema: The Empire Strikes Back.
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150 comments

  • Mark

    25 June, 2015 at 7:25 pm

    Great guide! Taking my son next Thursday very excited. What sort of time does it finish as need to know if we can get hone or will need a hotel. Thx

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      25 June, 2015 at 8:07 pm

      Hi Mark. Thanks very much! The film ends at around 10:45pm. Afterwards you can wander back through the… uh… ‘bar area’ and hang around for a blue milk if you want. The whole thing doesn’t really shut down till about midnight, however you won’t miss anything if you leave straight after the film. Canada Water tube is really close if that helps.

      • Mark

        26 June, 2015 at 1:02 pm

        Thanks — sounds like we have time to get home. Can’t wait now!
        May the force be with you.

  • Toni Roberts

    25 June, 2015 at 11:25 pm

    Hi Christopher. Thank you so much for this! I’m really worried about the payment situation. I don’t have any contactless credit cards and had hoped to pay for everything with cash, but you said not to bother. The problem is, I’m coming from the USA and can’t even be sure my regular debit card will work, but I’m diabetic, so I NEED food and they won’t let me bring any with me… what advice can you give me?

      • Toni Roberts

        30 June, 2015 at 4:24 pm

        Hi, thank you so much for the advice. Your tips are really helpful!

    • Penelope rodrigues

      27 June, 2015 at 1:09 am

      Toni – the card machines can do either contactless or chip and pin payments. In the event that your card doesn’t work (Test it elsewhere in the city before coming) you will be alright with cash.

      • Toni Roberts

        30 June, 2015 at 4:27 pm

        Thanks a bunch, Penelope. I think I’ll try my card. My bank said it should work just fine.

  • Jae

    1 July, 2015 at 11:31 am

    You mention RebelX online store. Tried googline that, but found no such thing. Could you tell more about it?
    I’m not from London, so would be great to order stuff online.
    Thanks in advance!

    JW

  • Matt

    5 July, 2015 at 7:57 pm

    Are you allowed to take cameras? I’m a keen photographer and would love to capture the evening with some photos etc.

    Thanks
    Matty

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      5 July, 2015 at 9:11 pm

      @Matt – It’s very much frowned upon I’m afraid. You’ll definitely be told to put it away by a stern member of the Empire.

  • Chris

    7 July, 2015 at 10:51 am

    hi,
    quick questions:-
    were you just sat on the ground watching the film? had people bought rugs/cushions like Back To The Future?
    Also in terms of crystals/seeds that you need to bring, can these just be anything you have or would they need to be bought specifically from the rebelx store in brick lane?
    great info here by the way. many thanks as been a real help.

    Thanks,

    Chris

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      7 July, 2015 at 11:04 am

      @Chris – You could probably get away with just bringing a few seeds in a small brown envelope from home, same with the ‘crystals’, they’re just shiny little plastic gems you can buy from any bead/accessories shop.

      You won’t need a blanket or cushions. You’ll be sat on proper chairs for the film. And you definitely won’t get cold as it’s inside.

  • Julia

    9 July, 2015 at 4:27 pm

    How do I know which faction I am in? I got an email today telling me about the items but not assigning me a faction. Do I get an email or choose myself.

  • Helen

    12 July, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    Hi Chris – what number do you use as your access number on the above link you posted? Thanks

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      12 July, 2015 at 9:42 pm

      Hi Helen,

      It’s in your confirmation email, it’s a phrase not a number.

      • Theresa

        24 August, 2015 at 4:51 pm

        Hi Chris, thank you for sharing! I have not received my “phrase” to ascertain which character I’m going as. The confirmation email which includes our tickets do not include that and I’m keen to do the quiz and find out which character’s costume to get! :)

        I have been on the secret cinema’s website and there was no info there too.

        Any help would be great :)

        Thank you,
        Theresa x

        • Christopher Ratcliff

          24 August, 2015 at 8:16 pm

          It’s wearerebelx

  • Andrew

    13 July, 2015 at 10:57 pm

    Hi,
    Great Guide, is there Parking near by?
    Cheers,
    Andrew

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      13 July, 2015 at 11:49 pm

      Thanks! There are car parks in the area, although I don’t think anything is free. I would get the tube or bus if I were you.

  • Matt

    18 July, 2015 at 11:21 am

    Hi Chris,

    I have tickets for tonight but haven’t received any communications regarding venue address. Getting worried as no answer from Secret Cinema contact number, maybe as it’s the weekend. Should I have heard by now?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      18 July, 2015 at 12:40 pm

      @Chris – Just head to Canada Water tube station, then when you leave the tube, follow the crowd of Star Wars chracters heading towards the BHS. Get there before 5:30pm, you’ll be fine.

  • Julia

    19 July, 2015 at 8:57 am

    Thanks chris. My husband hit galactic explorer but wants to be a pilot- typical. Can you just choose whatever you want? Also is there any concern if in your group you are different factions? Might you get separated?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      19 July, 2015 at 11:49 am

      @julia – Nah, you can pretty much go as anything you like, but don’t worry you won’t get separated.

  • Jimmy

    20 July, 2015 at 6:00 pm

    What happens if you arrive later than 6.30? I’m guessing you’ll miss all the pre-film action? I have friends coming from out of London who definitely won’t make it. If I go on in will it be difficult/impossible to meet up with them?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      20 July, 2015 at 6:47 pm

      @Jimmy, I have no idea to be honest. But if you go in ahead, you’ll definitely spot them in one of the areas. It’s not too overcrowded and there’s time to wander and chill out.

  • SG

    21 July, 2015 at 10:36 am

    Thanks so much for these! Do you know if there is a cloakroom for my out of towner friends please? Thanks vm!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      21 July, 2015 at 10:45 am

      @SG – I don’t think there is I’m afraid.

    • GH

      9 September, 2015 at 3:47 pm

      There are no cloakrooms. I asked this specifically yesterday

  • SG

    21 July, 2015 at 11:00 am

    thanks chris – wish you a lovely day ahead

  • RS

    22 July, 2015 at 10:27 am

    Chris,

    Thanks for the tips.

    I’ve heard conflicting things, are people expected to source their own costumes? Or does Secret Cinema provide them?

    Cheers

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      22 July, 2015 at 11:00 am

      You can visit the store just off Brick Lane or visit their website… But yes you can definitely get away with wearing whatever you like from wherever you can get it. I genuinely just wore a white shirt and my wife’s dressing gown.

  • Jo

    22 July, 2015 at 10:07 pm

    This was exceptionally helpful and entertaining. Thank you!

  • Garvin taylor

    23 July, 2015 at 3:39 pm

    Can you buy any secret cinema empire posters at the meeting

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      23 July, 2015 at 4:19 pm

      Yep, there’s definitely a merch stall there with prints and t-shirts. Not sure on prices though.

  • Rachel P

    23 July, 2015 at 5:09 pm

    Excellent post! How much notice do you get to what faction you are in? I want to order a costume asap so it gets here in time but don’t know what I’m supposed to order?

  • Jimbo

    24 July, 2015 at 11:30 am

    Hi

    Thanks for this, it’s really useful.

    Quick question; is it really necessary to have the printout saying your character name?

    Thanks.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      24 July, 2015 at 11:52 am

      Thanks very much. It is I’m afraid.

      • Russel

        27 August, 2015 at 1:56 am

        I went tonight. I didn’t print out anything. Didn’t even remember the lame name they gave me. It was fine. All you need is your ticket in printed out or electronic form.
        Was awesome.

  • Rosie

    26 July, 2015 at 4:26 pm

    How long before the event do you receive the email giving faction/character name?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      27 July, 2015 at 12:02 pm

      Hi Rosie. You have to register your details on the RebelX website, linked further up in the comments. You’ll receive your details straight away.

  • Gem

    27 July, 2015 at 12:42 pm

    Hi Chris, great page, really useful.

    Just booked my tickets for August. How long before I receive the extra information (access for the RebelX store etc…)? All I have at the moment is the printable ticket.

    Can’t wait!!
    G

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      29 July, 2015 at 9:51 pm

      @Gem – Just go to the RebelX site and register your details. You don’t need any more information than the password in your email and your own personal details.

  • looney

    28 July, 2015 at 10:25 pm

    I bought 2 tickets for myself and the misses, I registered and got a name but how do i get a name for the wife (ive got several name for her but a star wars one would be different)?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      29 July, 2015 at 9:50 pm

      @Looney – Just re-register but using your wife’s details.

  • Michelle

    29 July, 2015 at 8:04 am

    Hi, is it necessary to dress up? I’ve got my boyfriend tickets as a surprise but wasn’t planning on giving them to him until the morning? Thanks!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      29 July, 2015 at 9:50 pm

      @Michelle – It isn’t compulsory, but just be prepared to stick out like a sore thumb if you’re not wearing fairly plain browns, whites and beiges.

  • Yoda

    29 July, 2015 at 10:26 pm

    Hi, any idea what time this finishes, I have a last train at 11.50, but would prefer to get the 10.20 from Waterloo:)

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      30 July, 2015 at 12:44 am

      @Yoda – Roughly just before 11pm.

  • Joruus

    31 July, 2015 at 10:37 am

    Hey Chris, thanks for the useful info.

    We’ve only just today received the info for registering and what scarf you need, and we’re going on Sunday’s showing(!) How important is it to get the appropriate colour scarf (we are dressing up anyway) – looking at where the brick & mortar shop is compared to Canada Water tube, they do not seem close so that leaves us with little to no time….

    Thanks.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      31 July, 2015 at 12:25 pm

      @Joruus – Don’t worry, you won’t be refused entry or anything like that. It’s not super important.

      • Joruus

        2 August, 2015 at 9:08 am

        Thanks. We’re travelling from outside of London – since there’s no cloakroom, will we be able to take one small rucksack in with us?

        • Christopher Ratcliff

          4 August, 2015 at 12:11 pm

          Joruus – Prepared to have it checked, but yeah it’ll be fine.

  • Karen

    1 August, 2015 at 2:07 pm

    Can you take soft drinks and snacks in with you?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      1 August, 2015 at 3:08 pm

      Unfortunately no.

  • Skywalker5

    4 August, 2015 at 12:11 am

    Hi Chris,
    After buying two tickets I April I haven’t received any printable tickets or confirmation of the date just a bunch of rebel x emails and club invites, any idea how you can find out what day your booked in for? Can’t find any info regarding this, scared I’ll miss it!:0

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      4 August, 2015 at 12:12 pm

      You picked a date when you booked your tickets, and the ticket is attached to your confirmation email. The ticket will have the date on it.

  • Dom

    4 August, 2015 at 6:09 pm

    Re registering details on rebelxbase.co – I don’t know what to write into ‘access code’. My confirmation email sending the tickets (from See Tickets) doesn’t mention a password or pass number, nor do the tickets themselves.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      4 August, 2015 at 6:35 pm

      Dom – it’s wearerebelx

      • Dom

        4 August, 2015 at 7:27 pm

        Thanks for that, Chris, all sorted now! Dom

  • Laia

    4 August, 2015 at 11:29 pm

    Hi, thanks for your time writing all this, it is very helpful!!
    Do you know if there is a specific size to print for the ID card? I have seen people having it in plastic envelopes, do you have to wear it visible?
    Thanks again!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      5 August, 2015 at 12:19 am

      @Laia 0 Nah, don’t worry at all. Mine was A5 sized on a bit of paper, and I just showed that when asked. You can just keep it in your pocket.

  • jamie

    6 August, 2015 at 12:45 pm

    i am booked to go next week but dont have any email regarding name costume/role or anything how long before you go do you get it ?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      6 August, 2015 at 2:21 pm

      Jamie – just have a look up through the last few comments, you’ll find the site you need to register on, and the password. Cheers.

  • Jordan

    6 August, 2015 at 9:42 pm

    Hi, how do I register another persons info for rebel x ID if there are more than one person in the group to register? We bought two tickets and have only managed to register one person. Thank you

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      6 August, 2015 at 10:00 pm

      Jordan – it doesn’t matter, you just register their details so it’ll be a different ID from yours. If you’re still logged in, just log-out and use the original passcode to do it all over again. Or use a different browser.

      • Jordan

        6 August, 2015 at 10:37 pm

        Thank you very much for your help. We have only just ordered our costumes as we have only figured out how to register. Are the IDs our tickets? We are attending on he 11th.Thank you again.

        • Christopher Ratcliff

          6 August, 2015 at 11:05 pm

          No problem. You will definitely need to print out your tickets AND your IDs. They’re not the same. Have a blast!

          • Jordan

            6 August, 2015 at 11:33 pm

            Really sorry for the questions, you have been very helpfull. One last question; how do we print our tickets? We’ve bought two but the only emails we have are our rebel x messages.

  • Jordan

    7 August, 2015 at 12:05 am

    Found them. Thank you very much for all of your help!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      7 August, 2015 at 12:28 am

      No problem at all :)

  • Livvi

    7 August, 2015 at 11:49 am

    Hey
    This is really helpful – thank you!
    I bought my tickets last night and we’re going in two weeks time.
    I have the confirmation and the tickets but there’s no website or code in the email. Do I need to wait for some sort of email from them or can I just go ahead and use the link and access code (and send it to my friends who are coming with) to register and get our characters? I presume that’s how we find out our faction and what costume we need to wear? Will just doing that of our own accord ruin anything based on what they may send later? I just don’t want to leave it too late to get costumes etc.
    To get to the location, we won’t be able to get there for 5.30 but we will be there by 6.30. There’s been no mention of where to go but I presume we just head to Canada Water Station (based on other comments) but then what?
    Thanks, and sorry, I know a lot of this has been said, I just want to clarify!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      7 August, 2015 at 12:03 pm

      No problem at all.

      Yep all of what you’ve said is entirely accurate… just go ahead and use the website and code anyway. (It may be worth checking your junk/spam folder though). Canada Water station by 6:30pm will get you there fine too, just follow the crowds.

  • Sam

    9 August, 2015 at 5:02 pm

    Hi do they check kids ID? We have an 8 year old boy and a 6 year log girl who would both love this, but can see that the website says its for age 8+. Our 6 yr old could easily pass for her brothers 8 year old twin.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      9 August, 2015 at 6:44 pm

      I have no idea to be honest, and I wouldn’t like to say if you’re likely to get her in easily or not. Sorry to not be more help.

    • Joruus Ralter

      12 August, 2015 at 8:42 pm

      They don’t check child ages – there were plenty younger than 8 when we went – 6 would be fine – it’s just a late night and they may get fidgety through the film. I took my son on his 8th birthday and no one cared about his age.

      It is a truly amazing event… I want to go again…

  • Sam

    12 August, 2015 at 6:51 pm

    No worries Chris, thanks for replying. If anyone else has any thoughts on this please let me know…

    • Phill

      1 September, 2015 at 12:12 pm

      Hi
      I just wondered how it went getting your 6 yr old in. I would like to take my 6yr old but the woman on the phone line said no. Did they check the ages?

      • Christopher Ratcliff

        1 September, 2015 at 3:42 pm

        I think a commenter earlier said that nobody checks the age, but officially there is an age restriction.

  • Emmy

    12 August, 2015 at 10:17 pm

    Is there any way of changing the faction you get put into when you register? Can I just re-register? Thankyoou!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      13 August, 2015 at 10:00 am

      You can probably just try to re-register, but I don’t know if it will let you. Also, it’s only yourself who knows your own faction, nobody checks to hard if you want to wear a different costume.

  • Lisa

    13 August, 2015 at 5:50 pm

    Feel may be being a bit of an idiot.

    Is anyone else having diffifulty registering? I have the password and the website BUT the webpage isn;t allowing me to type the password in

  • JMM

    13 August, 2015 at 8:22 pm

    Hi Chris,

    Firstly. Thanks so much for all your replies on here. Been really helpful,…..just two more from me.

    Me, the Mrs and the 8yo all registered, and have were given galactic explorer and creative council, however 3 alliance starfighter costumes later,I just realised our ID badges say our original groups. Do I need to photoshop them to say alliance starfighter?

    Also, given we are alliance starfigtered up to the chest box and helmet, will we get away with not having the scarves?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      13 August, 2015 at 8:42 pm

      Hi JMM – Honestly, do not worry. There will be no problems having different badges from costumes, and no you’ll be fine without scarves. I promise ;)

  • Rob

    14 August, 2015 at 12:45 pm

    Really really helpful page. One question, do you need to take anything with you to the Cheshire St store? Just wondering whether it’s only for people with tickets? Want to head there today, but it’s a little out of my way, so don’t want to get there and find out that I’ve not got what I need with me. Can’t find a phone number either. Cheers.

    • Rob

      14 August, 2015 at 12:46 pm

      Just to say, we are going, and do have tickets, just not on me today!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      14 August, 2015 at 2:14 pm

      You’re fine without a ticket, they don’t check.

      • Rob

        14 August, 2015 at 2:28 pm

        Brilliant. Thanks.for coming back so quickly!

  • MH

    15 August, 2015 at 1:10 am

    Great site! I just read it and bought tickets for tomorrow (Saturday!) I don’t know much about star wars but reading your post convinced me!! I was worried about finding tickets, but got them for on stubhub.com where they still have face value tickets

  • DaveA

    15 August, 2015 at 3:01 pm

    Is the peripheral buying essential, costumes, seed, crystals, scarves etc? A friend and i are coming on a budget and don’t really have any interest in dressing up, just want to see some cool stuff and watch the film?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      15 August, 2015 at 6:06 pm

      No, you’ll be fine. Just wear something neutral in case you’re worried about sticking out.

  • Andy B

    18 August, 2015 at 2:04 pm

    Hi, When getting identities, I used high numbers and became a pilot, what numbers makes you a mercenary, and what numbers for a galactic explorer?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      18 August, 2015 at 9:20 pm

      That’s really interesting. To be honest I have no idea, I was aiming for something I didn’t get. Maybe someone else can shed some light…

  • Pen

    19 August, 2015 at 11:35 am

    This was super helpful, thanks! But there =were= two spoilers….
    Can’t wait!

  • Jabba

    20 August, 2015 at 2:44 pm

    Hello,

    A friend bought me a couple of tickets as a gift. Will it matter that her name is on the tickets when I’m at the door (she won’t be coming with us)

    Thanks!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      20 August, 2015 at 6:15 pm

      Not at all. You’ll be fine.

      • Jabba

        21 August, 2015 at 1:58 pm

        Thanks for the reassurance – would have been horrible to the get the evening off to an angsty start! Have a good weekend, WEBEL SCUM!

  • Alexis

    24 August, 2015 at 2:24 pm

    Did you get split up if you were in separate factions? Everyone got the same except me, I got the Governor one…help!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      24 August, 2015 at 2:35 pm

      Nope, you won’t lose anyone, don’t worry.

  • Xico Ribas

    25 August, 2015 at 7:01 pm

    Hi,
    I just bought yesterday my tickets for tomorrow, and I’m a little bit lost. I’m from Spain and I’m here on holidays. I didn’t know about it before i came.
    The question is, is it possible to buy the scarve at the same place before the meeting? I won’t be able to go to brick lane, and I definetively won’t be able to order it online. If not, what happens if I don’t have the scarve?
    I’m a big fan of StarWars, I’m worried because I would like to wear all the required stuff, but unfortunately I haven’t known about it in time.
    Thank you very much!
    Very good tips, by the way!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      25 August, 2015 at 11:55 pm

      Honestly don’t worry, you will still be let in without a scarf. It doesn’t really matter.

  • Mel

    27 August, 2015 at 9:56 pm

    Hi Chris,
    Brilliant site; thanks so much for all the information! I’m going with my partner on the last day (Sep 27th). I’m getting from your info that you can go as whatever you want irrespective, so thinking I’ll just do mercenary. The faction thing confuses me though. I’ve tried to go onto the rebelxbase website but it won’t load for love nor money (several restarts later). Can your scarf be any colour? Like, can I get a blue one or would I look like a tit?

    Cheers.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      28 August, 2015 at 12:30 am

      Thank you! Don’t worry at all, it really doesn’t matter what colour your scarf is, you’ll be fine :)

  • Ingrid

    28 August, 2015 at 5:43 am

    Do you know if there are cabs near Canada Water when the event lets out? I can’t do stairs really and after all that walking, the tube isn’t really an option. Thanks.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      29 August, 2015 at 6:53 pm

      There will be plenty hanging around. It’s in the centre of Canada Water and it’s pretty busy.

  • Helenium

    29 August, 2015 at 9:56 am

    Has anyone else had problems with the Rebelx website? I’ve managed to register & have got a screen with my name on but the site keeps crashing & kicking me back to the log in screen. I can’t get any further. My partner’s still got to register & i’m a bit concerned we might be missing some info/instructions.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      29 August, 2015 at 6:54 pm

      As long as you have your tickets you’ll be fine.

      • Helenium

        29 August, 2015 at 10:58 pm

        Thanks ever so much for all your tips. Am really looking forward to the event.

  • Becs

    30 August, 2015 at 8:42 am

    You mentioned not being able to go to the loo. If you go through the ‘bar’ there’s an exit to an outside area with lots of loos. All very clean too.

    I went last night. Oh my God it was so much fun.

  • Zara Picus

    30 August, 2015 at 12:53 pm

    Is there really a lot of running about? Worried about this as dodgy knees…….

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      31 August, 2015 at 10:45 am

      You can go at your own pace, don’t worry. There is a few hours of walking around though, and some amount of crouching.

  • Peter

    30 August, 2015 at 2:23 pm

    Great post, thank you for all the orientation!
    My questions are about the travel. Since the event is finishing late, it’s very likely that I’d miss the last train out of London where I go from. So instead of buying a daily travel card my best option appears to be to go by car and park it somewhere nearby Canada Water.
    Do you have any suggestion where to leave the car for the duration of the event? (I’m happy to pay parking fee so that’s not a problem :))
    Do I need any further public transport tickets from Canada Water to the event location or is it included in the ticket price? Shall I have an oyster card fully loaded?

    Thank you, can’t wait to be there!

  • Losa

    30 August, 2015 at 4:37 pm

    Peter, you can park at Westfield shopping centre Stratford and get the tube 4 stops to Canada Water. Parking is 24hr there.
    It was utterly brilliant by the way!

    • Peter

      31 August, 2015 at 8:16 am

      Thank you, that’s great!

  • Elli

    31 August, 2015 at 10:23 pm

    Hello Chris, very useful read. I can’t get there until around 8pm. Do you have any tips on arranging a meeting place with my friends?They will be arriving on time. Am I going to miss loads of the action? What time does the film start? Thanks.

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      1 September, 2015 at 3:41 pm

      You may have to contact the Secret Cinema people, but I don’t think you’ll be allowed in that late. It’s a full programme of ‘events’ carefully timed throughout the evening. The film starts around 9pm, maybe you’ll be allowed in for that? I can’t guarantee it though.

      • Elli

        1 September, 2015 at 10:00 pm

        Ok. Thanks. I’ll drop them a line.

  • carole

    1 September, 2015 at 6:01 pm

    Hi I have bought tickets from stub hub as the event was sold out, I am told by SC via facebook that this is illegal, has anyone else done this? How do I find out where the event is and what character etc, as I assume this info will go to the original seller.

    Thanks in advance for any help.

    • Jorden

      10 September, 2015 at 10:32 am

      Hi Carole, the website for all the ID’s is http://www.rebel.co and the password is wearerebelx. Then answer the questions on the screen and it will give you your ID for the secret cinema. Hope this helps

  • kbizzle

    8 September, 2015 at 2:02 pm

    Hi! This has been really helpful, thanks! We’re interested in having dinner at the event, will we miss anything by doing this? Like Aerosmith, I don’t wanna miss a thing! *crickets*

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      8 September, 2015 at 7:24 pm

      My pleasure. I reckon you should grab something to eat as soon as you get to Tatooine and then you’ll have loads of time to explore.

  • Jorden

    10 September, 2015 at 9:18 am

    Hi Christopher, I know this is a mad question. When you are watching the movie, are you sitting on the floor or in chairs? And do the chairs have arm? My boyfriend and I are Star Wars fans so he bought the tickets as a surprise but I’m a large lady and it’s worrying me like mad about the chairs. We were going sell the tickets but when I asked Secret Cinema for the location, they told me I can’t sell them because they check peoples ID with the ticket. Please help for any information :)

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      10 September, 2015 at 11:28 pm

      Hi Jorden,
      You’re on chairs without arm-rests. It is a little cosy, but slightly roomier than the average cinema.

      (If you do want to sell them, I haven’t heard of anyone having their tickets checked with their IDs by the way, but Secret Cinema have to give the official line)

  • DR

    13 September, 2015 at 11:18 pm

    I’m going this week and likely won’t be able to get there until 6.30, but the rest of my group is planning on going in at 5.30. Is this going to be a problem? Will we end up being separated for most of the night until the film or will I be able to join them immediately on entering?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      14 September, 2015 at 12:39 pm

      You’ll be absolutely fine DR, you’ll spot them easily and you can join them for the film. You may just have an hour or so where you’ll be catching them up.

  • Samantha Vincent

    16 September, 2015 at 3:05 pm

    Hello, I’m attending on Friday, I don’t know where the location is apart from Canada Water tube station, so how will I find the event once I get off the tube?

    Also am I allowed to keep my mobile phone on me?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      16 September, 2015 at 3:38 pm

      Seriously just follow the masses of Star Wars characters, but it’s just over by the old BHS building opposite the tube entrance.

      And if you keep your phone in your pocket, you’ll be fine.

  • maryP

    17 September, 2015 at 10:48 pm

    quick question… do they have a metal detector or such when you enter? how do they know if you have a phone/camera with you?
    just wondering. thanks for all the info. Hope I can still make it before it closes.

    • maryP

      17 September, 2015 at 10:49 pm

      oops. I think you just answered this :p

  • MarkB

    18 September, 2015 at 1:20 pm

    Great tips and amusing as well.
    Question: I’m going this Sunday as a member for the Starfighter Alliance or something. I ordered some trading circuits (only £2), but what I got was a circuit board bigger than my head!! What in the name of Jabba’s trousers do I do with it? Can I cut it up?

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      19 September, 2015 at 1:22 am

      I… uh… have no idea. Yeah just break it up into bits, no one will care.

  • TVC

    19 September, 2015 at 10:39 pm

    Hi – I see you’ve said no soft drinks are allowed to be taken in..
    Does this include a small bottle of water? – I struggle without one

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      20 September, 2015 at 12:28 pm

      If it’s sealed it might be fine. It’s worth a try.

  • Brian

    20 September, 2015 at 2:02 pm

    Anyone had any luck with the “secret cantina” / nightclub? All the links here https://www.rebelxcantina.co/ are dead, and I haven’t received any information about a number to call with my ticket. Is it still open?

  • Roman

    21 September, 2015 at 1:36 pm

    Just got a email telling me about leaving at 6PM due to ‘disruptions caused by the Empire’–as my tIcket is for Thursday, just wanted to be sure that this is the same thing everyone else gets, and not a sudden rearrangement? Silly question probably, but just wanted to be absolutely sure. :)

  • Nick

    22 September, 2015 at 3:56 pm

    Hi, I am going along for the final night as Creative Council and one of the optional items for me to take is a secret message. Is this anything I choose it to be or should I be looking for some secret message on rebelxbase?

    Many thanks and can’t wait!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      22 September, 2015 at 4:46 pm

      I believe it can be anything you like. Just make sure it’s something really juicy ;)

      Have a blast!

      • Nick

        23 September, 2015 at 9:40 am

        Thanks for the advice Chris.

  • George

    22 September, 2015 at 7:57 pm

    Hi! I am going on Friday and I got the Galactic Explorer faction. I have a couple of questions:
    1. Are you allowed to take replica blasters?
    2. What colour scarve do you have to wear – where do you find it out?
    3. Everyone here is saying about seeds and crystals and stuff but I didn’t see any of it. What do you need to take for this?
    4. What stuff do I need to take as a Galactic Explorer? Anything specific?
    5. What does the shop in Brick Lane sell?

    Thanks in advance – I am literally incapable of waiting!

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      23 September, 2015 at 9:46 am

      1 – I don’t know, I don’t remember seeing any. Probably not worth the risk. Lots of lightsabres though
      2 – you were told when you registered your details on the website. (see comments above) -I think the brown one.
      3 – again you should have found out when you registered – but I think it’s seeds
      4 – I think that’s everything.
      5 – everything you’ll need in terms of costume, scarves and all the seeds/crystals etc.

  • Martin

    22 September, 2015 at 10:44 pm

    Hey,

    thanks for this, really helpful. I’m going as a Mercenary and it mentions holster as an accessory but channelling Han Solo I rather obviously want to bring my trusty blaster along with me, but I note that the holster in the associated merc picture is conspicuously empty. Storm Troopers aside, did you see other audience members with any ray guns? There’s certainly nothing on the web site to say they can’t be brought and it seems like an obvious prop to bring (obviously realistic gun replicas aside).

    cheers

    M

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      23 September, 2015 at 9:47 am

      I wouldn’t risk it, but if it’s a brightly coloured ray-gun, I’m sure it’ll be okay.

  • Tom

    25 September, 2015 at 12:25 am

    I’m going tomorrow (Fri 25th), but still don’t know what time it starts… I need to know this as I need to know when I need to leave work and start my journey to London. Any idea… I’ve seen 5.30 and 6.30 mentioned in this thread. Also, are there really no facilities for leaving bags? I’ll have a bag with a weekend’s worth of clothes, sleeping bag, toothpaste, etc…

    • Christopher Ratcliff

      25 September, 2015 at 8:23 am

      You can turn up at either 5:30 or 6:30. It doesn’t matter.

      Unfortunately there’s nowhere to store your bag, so you’ll have to take it around with you.

      • Tom

        25 September, 2015 at 9:45 am

        Cheers Chris. Very helpful. Rucksack it is then! Can be part of my costume….

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