Disney's Star Wars Theme Park Plans Unveiled

Concept art has been released showing expansion plans. © Disney/Lucasfilm

Visitors to Disney's Star Wars experience will be able to pilot the Millennium Falcon, fight in a battle between the Resistance and the First Order and meet droids and aliens.

Harrison Ford and BB-8 unveiled details of the highly anticipated expansion at Disney's American theme parks during a special television show aired in the US on Sunday.

The rides will be the newest galactic addition to Disneyland in Anaheim, California, and Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, and will span 14 acres each.

Ford, who plays Han Solo in the films, said: "Star Wars is, for lack of a better word ... awesome.

"I'm so blessed that I had the opportunity to be a part of it, to walk in these iconic locations.

Fans will be able to experience some of the same locations as Ford

"And soon, you'll be able to do that as well. Not in a galaxy far, far away, but in a place close to home."

The programme showed off new concept art from the attractions, including some shots from the cockpit of the Falcon as it flies into battle.

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   Gallery: Star Wars: The Force Awakens In Pictures

   It is not known when the experiences will open to the public.

   Ford later introduced the first orchestral performance of Star Wars Live In Concert in front of an enthusiastic audience at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

   Dame Helen Mirren sported a pair of silver Mickey Mouse ears on a blue hat as she introduced the programme celebrating the history of the theme park.

   During the tribute, Sir Elton John debuted new song Wonderful Crazy Night and performed his Oscar-nominated song Circle Of Life in front of the famous pink castle at Disneyland.

   Filming is under way on Star Wars: Episode VIIIand security is reportedly so tight that studio bosses are flying drones above the set to stop other drones from taking and leaking photos.

   Shooting has taken place in Skellig Michael, Ireland, where Episode VII finished, and will move to Dubrovnik in Croatia from 9 March.