The Sphere entertainment destination in Las Vegas has debuted enhanced and expanded 4D effects for its AI-powered version of 1939 musical fantasy film The Wizard of Oz.
Launched last year, The Wizard of Oz at Sphere is an immersive experience where audiences feel like they have stepped inside the classic film.
The film experience already utilises Sphere's cutting-edge technologies, including more than 1,800 unique AI elements, haptic seats, environmental effects and custom scents.
Now, Sphere has introduced animatronic Winged Monkeys, scented apples raining down from the ceilings, pyrotechnic fireworks, and 'Glinda Glitter' to further immerse guests in the world of Oz.
The Wizard of Oz at Sphere is an immersive experience where audiences feel like they have stepped inside the filmSphere
"At Sphere, we’re constantly exploring new ways to push the boundaries of immersive storytelling and create new experiences for our audiences," said Jennifer Koester, Sphere's president and chief operating officer.
The new enhancements, she added, will "take 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 updated experience comes as The Wizard of Oz at Sphere surpasses over half a billion in ticket sales, with more than 4 million total tickets sold since its opening.
Earlier this year, Sphere announced a new immersive experience for 2027 inspired by The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975).
The Wizard of Oz at Sphere has surpassed more than half a billion in ticket salesSphere
"Through Sphere Studios, we are building a slate of original experiences that push the boundaries of technology and storytelling for this new medium, while always keeping the audience at the center of the experience," said Jim Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment.
"Since The Rocky Horror Picture Show premiered in 1975, it redefined audience participation and became a cultural phenomenon. With Sphere, we have the opportunity to take that spirit of immersion to an entirely new level."
In addition, Oprah Winfrey is set to host a unique experience at Sphere next April.
