The Sphere in Las Vegas is adding what the company says are “new and expanded 4D effects” to its reimagining of the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz.
The Sphere version of the film has grossed north of $450 million since it launched a year ago, and the venue says that tickets are now on sale into early 2027. The film combines the Sphere’s vast screen with effects in the venue, including fire, falling apples and a tornado that forms inside the room.
The enhanced effects will include new animatronic winged monkeys that will fly over the audience; additional pyrotechnic fireworks; “Glinda Glitter”; new scented apples that will fall from the sky; and new scents that will be released into the venue during key scenes.
“AtSphere, we’re constantly exploring new ways to push the boundaries of immersive storytelling and create new experiences for our audiences,” says Jennifer Koester,Sphere’spresident and COO. “The upcoming enhancements toThe Wizard of Oz atSpheretake some of the most memorable moments from the experience to the next level to immerse and transport audiences deeper into the world of Oz.”
The 4D effects are a signature piece of the Sphere’s adaptation of the film, connecting what happens on screen to the venue itself. Sphere’s next film adaptation will be The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which will debut in 2027.
The venue, the brainchild of Madison Square Garden mogul Jim Dolan, has leaned on live concerts from the likes of U2 and The Backstreet Boys alongside filmed content to help fill the space. The company is developing two other Spheres, one in the Washington D.C. metro area and another in Abu Dhabi, working with local partners in both cases. Presumably some of the programming will also find its way to those venues.