There's no place like Sphere Las Vegas.
Sphere Entertainment Co. is breaking new ground with its latest announcement: an immersive experience based on the classic film "The Wizard of Oz."
Starting August 28, visitors to the Sphere will be treated to a reimagined version of this timeless movie, projected onto the venue's 160,000-square-foot screen. This unique presentation is the result of a collaboration between Sphere Entertainment Co., Warner Bros. Discovery, Google and the innovative technology firm Magnopus.
The Sphere has been breaking new ground since its New Year's Eve celebration over the holidays.
The "Wizard of Oz" Reimagined
It is the first time an older movie has been transformed into an immersive experience at Sphere Las Vegas.
"The Wizard of Oz" is a classic American musical fantasy film released in 1939, produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). It's based on L. Frank Baum's 1900 children's novel, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." The film is renowned for its creative use of Technicolor, its musical score, and its charming storytelling.
The story follows a young girl named Dorothy Gale, played by Judy Garland, who lives on a Kansas farm with her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry. After a tornado transports her to the magical land of Oz, she embarks on a journey to meet the Wizard, hoping he can help her return home. Along the way, she befriends the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion, who join her on her quest.
Directed primarily by Victor Fleming, the film is celebrated for its memorable songs, particularly "Over the Rainbow," which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The movie was nominated for six Oscars, including Best Picture, and it has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Over the years, "The Wizard of Oz" has been reinterpreted and referenced across various media, solidifying its status as a beloved classic that continues to enchant audiences of all ages.
The talented team bringing the Sphere Las Vegas project to life includes Academy Award and Emmy-nominated producer Jane Rosenthal, visual effects specialist Ben Grossmann, Academy Award-winning editor Jennifer Lame, and Creative Director Zack Winokur. Their combined expertise ensures that "The Wizard of Oz at Sphere" will not only preserve the charm of the original 1939 film but also enhance it to fit the Sphere’s cutting-edge capabilities.
New Ways to Experience Sphere Las Vegas
This initiative marks Sphere's new direction toward offering original entertainment beyond traditional concerts and live events.
Sphere Entertainment Co.'s CEO, Jim Dolan, emphasizes the importance of these experiences, stating they will highlight the venue's potential as an experiential medium. Following "The Wizard of Oz," Sphere plans to launch another immersive film, "From the Edge," which will premiere next year.
"From the Edge" will feature extreme athletes, including local rock climber Alex Honnold, known for his feat in the documentary "Free Solo." The film will also spotlight other adrenaline-fueled sports like free diving, skiing, base jumping, and surfing.
With these innovative experiences, Sphere Entertainment Co. aims to push the boundaries of immersive cinema, proving that the future of film is not just on a screen but enveloped in an experience. Whether you're a fan of classic movies or extreme sports, Sphere has something extraordinary lined up that you won't want to miss.
