
Get Ready for a Wild Ride: The Sphere’s Dazzling Take on ‘The Wizard of Oz’
2025-07-29
Author: Jessica Wong
Step into a Twister!
Hold onto your hats, Vegas! When the Sphere opens its doors for a mesmerizing rendition of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ on August 28, prepare to be swept into a whirlwind like never before. This isn’t just any film screening—visitors will be enveloped by a stunning 160,000 square foot LED screen and thrilling real-world effects that will leave them breathless!
Realistic Tornado Experience Awaits You!
Glenn Derry, executive VP of MSG Ventures, revealed that the Sphere’s experience will incorporate mind-blowing physical elements at an unprecedented scale. Picture this: as a tornado rages across Kansas, 10,000 guests in the Sphere will feel wind whipping through their hair, witness leaves swirling past, and see lightning flash against a backdrop of fog and haze. It’s a sensory overload designed to immerse you fully in the story from the first moment!
An Epic Transition to Oz!
Derry emphasizes the importance of making the transition from the mundane to the magical impactful. As Dorothy is whisked away to Oz, expect an overwhelming rush as color floods the venue, providing an experience that surpasses anything the original filmmakers could have imagined!
Experience the Dream Sequence!
To create this captivating atmosphere, a custom rig layers fog, haze, and falling leaves while 12-foot tall, 750-horsepower fans breathe life into the scene, making you feel like you’re stepping into a dream. "It’s like conducting an orchestra of immersive effects," says Derry, and the result is a compelling spectacle that enchants your imagination.
Fiery Encounters with the Wizard!
Once in Oz, the thrills don’t stop. The entrance of the Wizard promises to be a fire-filled spectacle, as ghostly projections and intense heat welcome you. "You want to feel that heat, to experience the awe that Dorothy felt before the mighty Oz!" Derry explains.
Winged Monkeys Take Flight!
But wait, it gets even more exciting! Derry’s team has ingeniously developed systems that will allow actual flying monkeys to swoop above the audience’s heads, adding an extra layer of thrill. Imagine the fun as these winged creatures soar in the vastness of the Sphere!
A Game-Changing Event for the Sphere!
‘The Wizard of Oz’ marks a pivotal moment for the Sphere, which has primarily hosted musical residencies and documentary films until now. This creative endeavor combines high-definition visuals, AI-enhanced features, and thrilling physical interactions—making it a priority for the venue’s visionary chairman, James Dolan.
A Vision Realized!
Every minute detail, from the iconic tornado to the memorable flying monkeys, has been meticulously planned to astonish audiences. Expect delightful surprises throughout the experience, including apples launching from nowhere as Dorothy and Scarecrow rush to save the Tin Man. Together with partners like Warner Bros. Discovery and Google, the Sphere aims to create an unforgettable adventure that transports visitors from the scorching Las Vegas desert directly to the enchanting Emerald City.