One of the most loved films of all time, “The Wizard of Oz”, is coming to Las Vegas like never before. Starting August 2025, this classic will be shown at Sphere—a venue that redefines what it means to watch a movie. It’s not just about watching a screen. It’s about being surrounded by the film.
With its giant 16K screen, 4D effects, and AI enhancements, Sphere offers a full-sensory experience that brings Oz to life in a bold new way.
A Modern Spin on a Timeless Film
The original “The Wizard of Oz” wowed audiences in 1939. Now, Sphere is offering something completely different—while still honoring the original story. Inside the venue, viewers won’t just see Dorothy’s world—they’ll feel it.
Sphere uses a wraparound LED screen with incredible detail. It’s 16K resolution means every scene looks sharp and vivid. The story plays out all around the audience. The movie’s visuals extend beyond the original frame thanks to AI, filling every inch of the giant display.
What Sets This Experience Apart
Sphere isn’t a typical movie theater. It was designed for large-scale, immersive shows. The venue combines advanced tech with classic storytelling to create something special.
Here’s what makes it unique:
1. AI-enhanced visuals – The image expands and adapts to the venue’s screen, creating an uninterrupted view.
2. 4D physical effects – Feel the motion and environment from the film in real time. Think wind, motion, and even scents.
3. Next-level sound – The speakers use spatial audio. This means sounds move around you just like they would in real life.
You’re not just watching the tornado or walking the Yellow Brick Road. You’re part of the journey.
Sphere’s Expanding Entertainment Lineup
Adding “The Wizard of Oz” is part of Sphere’s push to offer more than concerts. It’s building a new kind of entertainment lineup. In 2026, a new show called “From the Edge” will debut. It focuses on top athletes, including a free diver, a rock climber, and a big wave surfer. The film is directed by Academy Award winners E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin.
Sphere has also been showing “Postcards from Earth”, a visual experience directed by Darren Aronofsky. It runs regularly and offers a cheaper way to experience Sphere’s high-end visuals and sound. Tickets for this show start at about $95.
A History of Oz in Las Vegas
Las Vegas has a history with “The Wizard of Oz.” Back in 1993, the MGM Grand hotel was filled with Oz-themed attractions. It had animatronics, a walk-through Yellow Brick Road, and a casino with a rainbow ceiling. However, these features were removed by the mid-90s as the city changed its focus from family fun to nightlife and entertainment.
The return of Oz to Vegas now feels fitting, especially with the success of “Wicked,” which has sparked new interest in Oz. The first “Wicked” film earned over $460 million globally. A second part, “Wicked: For Good,” is set to release in November 2025.
Sphere’s Big Bet
Sphere Entertainment is investing heavily in these immersive experiences. Though the company reported over $300 million in revenue in one quarter, the venue itself had a $142.9 million operating loss. CEO Jim Dolan compared the process to making a first pancake: “You learn as you go. ” He admitted they’re still figuring out how to program and sell the experience best.
This new version of “The Wizard of Oz” could help turn things around. With its massive 17,600-seat capacity, Sphere is betting big on shows that attract not just concertgoers but also movie lovers and tech enthusiasts.
What’s Next for Sphere?
The Sphere’s calendar is packed. It’s not just movies or concerts anymore. It will host major events like the 2024 NHL Entry Draft and UFC 306. It’s also a partner in the Formula 1 Las Vegas Strip Circuit.
The addition of “The Wizard of Oz” shows that Sphere is serious about expanding its offerings. It’s a smart move that taps into both nostalgia and new tech. People love the story. Now, they’ll get to feel it in a whole new way.
Whether you’re visiting Las Vegas or already live nearby, this is something worth checking out. Seeing “The Wizard of Oz” in this way adds a fresh layer of wonder to a film that’s already part of pop culture history.