The new $2.3 billion Sphere venue in Las Vegas is now open to the public, with Irish rock band U2 playing the first show of its residency on 29 September.
During the show, called U2: UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere, the band utilised every element of Sphere’s LED screen – the world’s largest and highest-resolution.
For each performance, the screen is transformed into a gallery showcasing art by Es Devlin, John Gerrard, Marco Brambilla, and Industrial Light & Magic.
World’s largest spherical structure
The 25-date run of shows celebrates U2’s acclaimed album Achtung Baby. Additionally, the band are performing their new song, ‘Atomic City’.
Designed by stadium specialist Populous, Sphere is the world’s largest spherical structure. Inside, it serves as a unique entertainment destination with immersive experiences, performances and competitions.
The state-of-the-art venue also hosts original productions by Hollywood directors. On 6 October, it will premiere an immersive film by The Whale and Black Swan helmer Darren Aronofsky.
Postcard from Earth uses Sphere’s state-of-the-art technologies, including the world’s most advanced concert audio system, and atmospheric elements such as wind and scent.
“Sphere in Las Vegas is an experiential medium featuring an LED display, sound system and 4D technologies that require a completely new and innovative approach to filmmaking,” said David Dibble, CEO of MSG Ventures, a division of Sphere Entertainment developing advanced technologies for live entertainment.
Called the Exosphere, Sphere’s exterior features 580,000 square feet of LED lighting to display content for guests at Sphere, Las Vegas visitors and social media users.
ICRAVE, the NY-based design firm, was tasked with designing the interior experience for Sphere. Over nearly 400,000 square feet, the company created an immersive world including the main concourse, food and beverage venues, artistic galleries, private dressing rooms, an exclusive VIP club and more. “The design of Sphere clearly delineates and accentuates the moment one leaves the default world and enters the venue” said Lionel Ohayon, Founder & CEO, ICRAVE & Chief Creative Officer + Co-Founder, Journey.
Last month, media artist Refik Anadol became the first artist to transform the exterior into an immersive digital experience called Machine Hallucinations: Sphere.
In more Sphere news, Aura the humanoid robot will greet guests ahead of events at the venue and provide directions.
Images courtesy of Sphere Entertainment, Rich Fury and Fly By Chicago
