Jump to content

Sphere (venue)

Coordinates: 36°07′14″N 115°09′41″W / 36.12056°N 115.16139°W / 36.12056; -115.16139
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from Las Vegas Sphere)

Sphere
Map
Address255 Sands Avenue
LocationParadise, Nevada, United States
Coordinates36°07′14″N 115°09′41″W / 36.12056°N 115.16139°W / 36.12056; -115.16139
Public transitLas Vegas Monorail (proposed)
OwnerSphere Entertainment
Vici Properties
OperatorSphere Entertainment
Executive suites23
Capacity18,600 (seated); 20,000 (including floor)
Acreage18
Construction
Broke groundSeptember 27, 2018; 6 years ago (2018-09-27)
Built2019–2023
OpenedSeptember 29, 2023; 13 months ago (September 29, 2023)
Construction cost$2.3 billion
ArchitectPopulous
Structural engineerSeverud Associates[1]
Walter P Moore
General contractorAECOM
Madison Square Garden
Website
www.thesphere.com/ Edit this at Wikidata

Sphere (also called Sphere at the Venetian Resort) is a music and entertainment arena in Paradise, Nevada, United States, east of the Las Vegas Strip. Designed by Populous, the project was announced by the Madison Square Garden Company in 2018, known then as the MSG Sphere. The 18,600-seat auditorium is being marketed for its immersive video and audio capabilities, which include a 16K resolution wraparound interior LED screen, speakers with beamforming and wave field synthesis technologies, and 4D physical effects. The venue's exterior also features 580,000 sq ft (54,000 m2) of LED displays. Sphere measures 366 feet (112 m) high and 516 feet (157 m) wide. The arena cost $2.3 billion, making it the most expensive entertainment venue built in the Las Vegas Valley.

Sphere opened on September 29, 2023, with Irish rock band U2 beginning a 40-show residency called U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere. Director Darren Aronofsky's docu-film Postcard from Earth opened on October 6, 2023.

History

[edit]

Background

[edit]

The project, known then as the MSG Sphere, was announced in February 2018.[2][3] The project was initially a partnership between the Madison Square Garden Company (MSG) and Las Vegas Sands Corporation.[4] Sphere is just off the Las Vegas Strip and east of the Venetian resort, which was opened by Las Vegas Sands in 1999.[3] Las Vegas Sands contributed the 18-acre (7.3 ha) site for the project.[5] Apollo Global Management purchased the Venetian in 2022 and became MSG's new partner on the Sphere project, replacing Las Vegas Sands.[6] As part of the sale, the land beneath the Venetian Resort and Sphere was purchased by Vici Properties.[7]

The sphere-shaped project was designed by Populous,[8] with an interior that includes the world's largest LED screen.[5] MSG initially estimated the project cost at $1.2 billion.[5] In February 2020, the company said the cost had increased to $1.66 billion as a result of design changes consisting of guest enhancements.[9] The cost continued to increase,[10][11][12] eventually surpassing $2 billion due to the 2021–2023 global supply chain crisis and the 2021–2022 inflation surge.[13][14] With a final expected cost of $2.3 billion,[15] it is the most expensive entertainment venue in Las Vegas history,[16] beating out the $1.9 billion Allegiant Stadium.[7]

Construction

[edit]

A groundbreaking ceremony was held on September 27, 2018, and was attended by approximately 300 people, including Las Vegas Sands' Sheldon Adelson and Nevada governor Brian Sandoval.[17] In November 2018, it was reported that the MSG Sphere would be built along with new bars, private suites, a museum and retail space.[18] AECOM began working on the site in February 2019, through a preliminary agreement. AECOM had worked on several other stadiums, including the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.[19] Excavation was underway in March 2019.[20] Approximately 110,000 cubic yards (84,000 m3) of dirt and caliche were excavated to prepare the site for construction.[19] AECOM was named as the general contractor in June 2019.[19][21] The project had 400 construction workers. This number was expected to eventually reach a peak of 1,500.[22] Construction of the basement was underway in July 2019.[23]

By October 2019, construction crews had completed the 80,000 sq ft (7,400 m2) basement as well as the first ground level of the venue.[8] The basement area will be used as public space for events.[22] Excavation went as deep as 21 feet (6.4 m) for construction of the basement.[19] In December 2019, the spherical structure reached 65 feet (20 m) in height with the completion of a fourth level, out of eight above-ground floors.[24]

In February 2020, the world's fourth-largest crane, a Demag CC-8800 crawler crane, was set up on the site's northeast side for the purpose of lifting heavy construction materials. The crane is capable of standing up to 580 feet (180 m). In a disassembled state, the crane was transported across the Atlantic Ocean from Zeebrugge, Belgium to Port Hueneme, California. The crane then required 120 tractor-trailers to transport it to Las Vegas. A separate crane was required to assemble the main crane, a process which took 18 days.[25][26] In March 2020, construction reached the widest point of the spherical structure, the 516-foot (157 m) diameter,[22] located at the sixth level and 108 feet (33 m) above ground.[27]

The project had been scheduled to open in 2021.[22] However, MSG announced on March 31, 2020, that construction would be suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The project experienced a disruption in its supply chain, a result of the pandemic, and this hindered construction progress. All construction work on the project was expected to come to a stop over the next two weeks following the announcement.[28][29] In August 2020, MSG Entertainment announced that construction had resumed on the project, with the opening rescheduled for 2023. Over the subsequent 15 months, construction would be focused on concrete, followed by steel erection and then the 13,000-ton steel-domed roof, the most complex part of the project.[30][31] In October 2020, crews completed the heaviest lift up to that point, with the installation of two 240-ton steel girders.[32][33]

MSG took over as general contractor in December 2020, although AECOM continued to provide support.[34][35] A 170-ton steel compression ring was added in February 2021, marking the heaviest lift of the entire project. Due to its size, the ring had to be assembled at the construction site. Work crews spent three weeks welding and bolting the prefabricated steel pieces together, and the crane was then used to lift the ring into place.[36][37][38]

Roof, exosphere, and interior

[edit]
Construction of the exosphere in September 2022

The dome's roof required 3,000 tons of steel.[39] The roof started to take shape in March 2021, as crews began the installation of 32 trusses, each one weighing 100 tons.[40] Truss installation reached the midway point in May 2021, and the crane had to be moved to the southern side of the property to install the remainder. Because of its size, the crane's relocation took two days.[41]

The dome was topped off on June 18, 2021,[42] and work was already underway on an external exosphere which would be built around the dome.[43] The exosphere is made of LED light panels which are visible from several miles away and is 30 percent taller than the dome.[42][44] Work on Sphere's interior began in August 2021.[45]

Upon completion of the roof's steel frame, 6,000 cubic yards (4,600 m3) of concrete were then pumped onto the roof. This formed a layer measuring 10 inches (250 mm) in thickness, and weighing approximately 10,000 tons.[46] The roof was finished in October 2021.[46][47] Crews then turned their focus to the 730-ton steel interior frame which supports the LED screens and audio system.[46][48] Work on the interior frame continued into 2022.[6][47]

A second topping out, for the exosphere,[42][44] took place on May 24, 2022.[49][50] This was followed by installation of the interior and exterior LED screens.[50] The latter was illuminated for the first time on July 4, 2023, during Independence Day celebrations.[51][52] Sphere soon went viral for its display of images.[53][54]

Opening

[edit]
U2 performing on September 29, 2023, Sphere's opening night

On April 20, 2023, the venue's owner Madison Square Garden Entertainment (which had, in turn, been spun off from the Madison Square Garden Company in 2020 in order to focus on its professional sports assets)[55][56] spun off its "traditional" live events business under the Madison Square Garden Entertainment name in order to insulate them, retaining Sphere and its regional sports network businesses under the new name Sphere Entertainment.[57][58] The MSG name was subsequently removed from the venue, which was officially renamed "Sphere".[54]

Sphere opened on September 29, 2023,[59] with the opening of U2's concert residency U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere.[60][61][62] It marked the group's first live show since 2019.[63] Sphere plans on hosting four to six residencies each year.[64] The company also debuted its first feature film, Postcard from Earth by director Darren Aronofsky, at Sphere on October 6, 2023.[65][66][67] The venue will employ up to 3,000 people.[68] Since opening, Sphere has operated on a $98.4 million loss as of the end of the third fiscal quarter of 2023.[69]

Features

[edit]

Structure and seating

[edit]
The seating levels of Sphere during a U2 concert

Sphere is 366 feet (112 m) high and 516 feet (157 m) wide at its broadest point.[22] It is the largest spherical building in the world at 875,000 sq ft (81,300 m2).[24] It includes seating for 18,600 people,[70][64] and all seats have high-speed internet access.[71] The venue can accommodate 20,000 people in standing capacity.[35] Seating does not wrap around the entire sphere, instead covering approximately two-thirds of the interior while the stage takes up the remainder.[72] Approximately 800 seats in the venue's premium, lower-level 100 section have obstructed views of the wraparound video screen due to the overhang of the second level.[73] Sphere has nine levels, including the basement, where a VIP club is located. A total of 23 suites are included, across the third and fifth floors.[50]

The arena will primarily host award shows and concerts, in addition to other entertainment events.[74] Though not designed to fit a traditional arena layout for sports such as basketball and ice hockey, it can host ring sports events such as boxing and mixed martial arts,[75][72] as well as esports tournaments.[50]

Video screens

[edit]
The venue's exosphere is lit by approximately 1.23 million LED pucks, each with 48 diodes.

The venue is equipped with a 160,000-square-foot (15,000 m2) LED screen that wraps around the interior.[70][76] It was designed and manufactured by SACO Technologies, a Canadian company based in Montreal specializing in LED video displays and lighting.[77][78] With a 16,000 × 16,000 resolution, it is the highest-resolution LED screen in the world, according to Sphere Entertainment.[79] In describing the number of pixels on screen, media sources have reported figures ranging from 189 to 254 million diodes[80][76] to 268,435,456 pixels.[81] The screen consists of 64,000 LED panels, each controlled by a printed circuit board housed in an aluminum frame, with the panels manufactured in 780 different geometric shapes with an edge-to-edge tolerance of 0.8 millimetres (0.031 in).[76][80] Due to its curved shape and the propensity for pixels to disappear near the poles, the screen uses an adaptive pixel pitch. It was also designed to be acoustically transparent, allowing sound from the speakers mounted behind the screen to pass through.[82]

The building's exosphere features a 580,000-square-foot (54,000 m2) LED display also designed by SACO Technologies;[83][6][84] it was the world's largest at the time the venue opened.[85] It comprises 1.23 million puck-shaped LEDs[76] spaced 8 inches (20 cm) apart, each containing 48 diodes.[86] Visuals displayed on the exosphere have included a Halloween jack-o'-lantern, a Christmas snow globe,[87] and advertisements.[88]

The internal and external displays of Sphere are powered by 150 RTX A6000 graphics processing units by Nvidia, each featuring more than 10,752 cores and 48 gigabytes of memory. Media is streamed from external sources via Nvidia BlueField data processing units and ConnectX-6 DX network interface controllers using Nvidia's Rivermax media streaming software.[89]

Sound system

[edit]
The venue's speaker system is based on Holoplot's X1 Matrix Array.

Sphere's sound system, dubbed "Sphere Immersive Sound", features spatial audio capabilities[90] and is based on Holoplot's X1 Matrix Array of speakers.[91] The sound system comprises 1,586 permanently installed speakers and 300 mobile modules, with 99 percent of the system being hidden behind the LED screen.[92][93] Each X1 array comprises a MD96 and a MD80-S sound module, equipped with 96 and 80 drivers respectively. Through a matrix of drivers within each speaker module and a matrix of modules per array, Holoplot's system offers more control over the dispersion of sound in horizontal and vertical directions.[94] In total, the sound system comprises 167,000 speaker drivers, amplifiers, and processing channels, and it weighs 395,120 pounds (179,220 kg).[95] The main coverage of the sound system is provided by the "proscenium array", located in Sphere where a traditional theatre proscenium would be built. It comprises 464 Holoplot X1 speakers (272 MD96 modules and 192 MD80-S modules) organized into 14 clusters and arranged in a semi-arch about 25–30 feet (7.6–9.1 m) above the stage,[96][97][98] making it the world's largest loudspeaker array.[99] Elsewhere, the sound system has 28 environmental arrays for immersive coverage (each one comprising five MD96 and five MD80-S modules), 6 effects arrays (each one comprising 24 MD96 modules), 71 surround arrays behind the audience, 12 delay arrays under the main balcony, 10 side-fill arrays, and 6 low-fill arrays.[98] The sound system also can deliver sound through the floorboards.[84]

Using beamforming capabilities, the Holoplot X1 speakers can digitally aim sound at specific spots in the audience and deliver a consistent volume to every seat in the venue, even over long distances;[100] in Sphere, the system offers 110 metres (360 ft) of sound coverage[101] to reach the furthest seats.[102] The Holoplot X1 arrays can also use wave field synthesis to create a virtual point of origin for sound waves and to place them in precise spatial locations, regardless of the actual positions of speakers.[100] Software algorithms compensate for any transmission loss caused by the obstruction from the LED screen.[82] Integrated into the Holoplot X1 modules are several technologies by Powersoft, including 16-channel amplification, "Integrated Powered Adaptive Loudspeaker" for subwoofers, and energy-efficient solutions such as pulse-width modulation and "power factor correction".[94]

4D effects

[edit]

Sphere contains 4D features, including scent and wind,[87] along with haptic technology in 10,000 of the venue's seats.[70]

Transportation

[edit]

The property includes 304 parking spaces, while additional spaces will be available at the parking garages for the nearby Venetian, Palazzo, and Venetian Expo.[75] A 1,000-foot (300 m) pedestrian bridge connects Sphere to the expo,[5] and there are plans to build a new Las Vegas Monorail station to serve Sphere and the Venetian.[18][103][104] However, these plans were put on hold in April 2020, due to the financial impact of the pandemic.[105][needs update]

Events

[edit]

Concerts

[edit]
List of concerts at Sphere
Date(s) Performer(s) Event/Tour Shows
September 29, 2023 – March 2, 2024 U2[106]
(Supporting act: Pauli "the PSM" Lovejoy)
U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere 40
April 18–21, 2024 Phish[107] Phish Live at Sphere 4
May 16 – August 10, 2024 Dead & Company[108] Dead Forever: Live at Sphere 30
September 20, 2024 – March 15, 2025 Eagles[109] Eagles: Live in Concert at Sphere 28
December 27, 2024 – January 11, 2025 Anyma[110] Afterlife presents Anyma: The End of Genesys 8

Films

[edit]

The film Postcard from Earth, directed by Darren Aronofsky, debuted on October 6, 2023.[67][111] The show is preceded by the "Sphere Experience", a demonstration of the venue's capabilities that utilizes animatronic robots and holographs.[112][113]

V-U2 An Immersive Concert Film, which documents U2's residency at Sphere, was released on September 5, 2024. It was directed by Morleigh Steinberg and her husband, U2 guitarist the Edge.[114]

Formula 1

[edit]

Sphere is part of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit.

2024 events

[edit]

Other locations

[edit]

MSG had initially stated that it intends to build other Sphere venues around the world.[93][117]

A similar MSG Sphere was planned to be built in Stratford, East London.[118][119][120] However, in November 2023, Sphere's planning permission was rejected by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, primarily over concerns about potential light pollution.[121] The Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen, suggested Teesside in North East England as an alternative venue for Sphere.[122]

In December 2023, MSG was discussing building of a new venue to be used for K-pop concerts in Hanam, South Korea.[123] After discussions stalled for South Korea and also Saudi Arabia, MSG was in talks with developers in United Arab Emirates to build a second location in Abu Dhabi.[124][125] On October 15, 2024, Sphere Entertainment confirmed that a second Sphere, identical to the one in Las Vegas, would be built in Abu Dhabi.[126]

Sphere Studios

[edit]

Sphere Studios,[127] originally MSG Sphere Studios, opened in Burbank, California, in May 2022.[128] The facility handles production and post-production work for the Las Vegas sphere and future spheres. MSG Sphere Studios sought to collaborate with filmmakers and musicians to create some of the content for the Las Vegas sphere.[117] Ted King, who previously worked on Star Trek: The Experience, is among those who will create visual content for Sphere in Las Vegas.[129] The studio will also produce content in association with the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix,[130] which will travel past Sphere.[93]

The spherical studio facility, nearly 100 feet (30 m) tall, is a miniature version of the Las Vegas sphere.[128] The facility uses Big Sky, a specialized camera system created specifically to produce material for Sphere.[131]

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Southwest Snapshot: January 2023". Engineering News-Record. January 11, 2023. Archived from the original on May 20, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  2. ^ Akers, Mick (February 9, 2018). "Next Las Vegas arena a 360-foot-tall sphere". Las Vegas Sun. Archived from the original on August 4, 2019. Retrieved February 28, 2020.
  3. ^ a b Velotta, Richard N. (February 9, 2018). "New performance venue near Las Vegas Strip to reshape skyline". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on February 28, 2020. Retrieved February 28, 2020.
  4. ^ "LV Sands commits $75 million to MSG Sphere arena project". LasVegasSun.com. July 19, 2018. Archived from the original on August 10, 2018. Retrieved August 9, 2018.
  5. ^ a b c d Velotta, Richard N. (August 20, 2019). "MSG Sphere at The Venetian to cost $1.2B plus". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on December 12, 2019. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  6. ^ a b c Velotta, Richard N. (February 23, 2022). "MSG Sphere at The Venetian is getting a 'mohawk.' It's a big deal". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on April 9, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  7. ^ a b Stutz, Howard (December 19, 2022). "At $2.17B, MSG Sphere passes Allegiant Stadium as the costliest Vegas entertainment venue". The Nevada Independent. Archived from the original on May 20, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  8. ^ a b Velotta, Richard N. (October 14, 2019). "MSG Sphere beginning to take shape in Las Vegas". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on February 13, 2020. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  9. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (February 7, 2020). "MSG Sphere design upgrades boost total cost to $1.66B". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on February 28, 2020. Retrieved February 28, 2020.
  10. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (February 17, 2021). "Cost of MSG Sphere project expected to increase before 2023 opening". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on February 18, 2021. Retrieved March 10, 2021.
  11. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (May 8, 2021). "New cost estimate for MSG Sphere at The Venetian: $1.826B". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 13, 2021. Retrieved May 13, 2021.
  12. ^ Bary, Andrew (August 23, 2021). "MSG Entertainment Surges on Relief Over Cost of Concert Venue". Barron's. Archived from the original on September 11, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  13. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (November 9, 2022). "MSG Sphere price tag climbs additional $157M to $2.18B". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on December 19, 2022. Retrieved December 19, 2022.
  14. ^ Seeman, Matthew (November 10, 2022). "New details revealed for MSG Sphere construction, possible company spinoff". KSNV. Archived from the original on December 19, 2022. Retrieved December 19, 2022.
  15. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (May 11, 2023). "MSG Sphere construction costs grow again, now $2.3B". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 19, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  16. ^ "The Year of Sphere". Bloomberg.com. December 27, 2023.
  17. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (September 27, 2018). "Work begins on 18,000-seat MSG Sphere at The Venetian". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on April 11, 2021. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  18. ^ a b "MSG Sphere project calls for bars, museum, private suites, new Monorail stop". November 2018. Archived from the original on November 1, 2018. Retrieved November 1, 2018.
  19. ^ a b c d Velotta, Richard N. (June 3, 2019). "MSG Sphere venue in Las Vegas moving forward with contractor". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on August 1, 2019. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  20. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (March 13, 2019). "MSG Sphere excavation begins near Las Vegas Strip". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on December 19, 2019. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  21. ^ Horwath, Bryan (June 3, 2019). "Builder picked for MSG Sphere at the Venetian". VegasInc. Archived from the original on June 8, 2019. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  22. ^ a b c d e Velotta, Richard N. (July 23, 2019). "Get a first look at MSG Sphere construction in Las Vegas". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on December 19, 2019. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  23. ^ Sheckells, Melinda (July 24, 2019). "Las Vegas' MSG Sphere at The Venetian Will Be An 'Architectural Marvel': Photos". Billboard. Archived from the original on September 11, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  24. ^ a b Velotta, Richard N. (December 19, 2019). "MSG Sphere construction in Las Vegas reaches 65-foot level". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on December 19, 2019. Retrieved December 19, 2019.
  25. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (February 26, 2020). "Massive crane arrives at MSG Sphere site for upcoming heavy lifts". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on February 27, 2020. Retrieved February 28, 2020.
  26. ^ Seeman, Matthew (February 26, 2020). "Massive 580-foot tall crane arrives at MSG Sphere site in Las Vegas". KSNV. Archived from the original on February 28, 2020. Retrieved February 28, 2020.
  27. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (March 12, 2020). "MSG Sphere project reaches new milestone". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on March 12, 2020. Retrieved March 13, 2020.
  28. ^ Segall, Eli (March 31, 2020). "MSG Sphere construction halted; Las Vegas opening delayed by coronavirus". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on October 19, 2020. Retrieved April 1, 2020.
  29. ^ Horwath, Bryan (March 31, 2020). "Virus halting work on MSG Sphere project on Las Vegas Strip". Las Vegas Sun. Archived from the original on April 1, 2020. Retrieved April 1, 2020.
  30. ^ Horwath, Bryan (August 14, 2020). "Work resumes at MSG Sphere site on Strip, company says". VegasInc. Archived from the original on July 27, 2021. Retrieved August 23, 2020.
  31. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (August 20, 2020). "Heavy lifts will mark MSG Sphere construction in next 15 months". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on June 16, 2021. Retrieved August 23, 2020.
  32. ^ Seeman, Matthew (October 14, 2020). "Crews finish heaviest lifts to date at MSG Sphere project near Las Vegas Strip". KSNV. Archived from the original on May 13, 2021. Retrieved May 13, 2021.
  33. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (October 14, 2020). "Heavy lift of steel beams completed at MSG Sphere site". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 13, 2021. Retrieved May 13, 2021.
  34. ^ Puppel, Doug (December 18, 2020). "AECOM Out as General Contractor on $1.6B MSG Sphere in Las Vegas". Engineering News-Record. Archived from the original on March 3, 2021. Retrieved March 10, 2021.
  35. ^ a b Szydelko, Paul (December 29, 2020). "The MSG Sphere continues to expand at the Venetian". Travel Weekly. Archived from the original on January 27, 2021. Retrieved March 10, 2021.
  36. ^ Kilpatrick, Christine (February 25, 2021). "Massive Crane Places 170-Ton Compression Ring at Big Vegas MSG Sphere Project". Engineering News-Record. Archived from the original on April 20, 2021. Retrieved March 10, 2021.
  37. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (February 22, 2021). "MSG Sphere crane lifts, installs ring weighing as much as 2 Boeing 757s". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on March 5, 2021. Retrieved March 10, 2021.
  38. ^ Lilly, Caitlin (February 22, 2021). "Crews complete heaviest lift on MSG Sphere project in Las Vegas". KVVU. Archived from the original on March 10, 2021. Retrieved March 10, 2021.
  39. ^ Mejia, Hector (June 17, 2021). "MSG Sphere taking shape: Details from our 90-minute hard hat tour". KLAS. Archived from the original on June 23, 2021. Retrieved June 19, 2021.
  40. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (March 23, 2021). "Watch MSG Sphere take shape as 100-ton roof trusses are installed". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 13, 2021. Retrieved May 13, 2021.
  41. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (May 5, 2021). "See the latest progress as The MSG Sphere takes shape". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 13, 2021. Retrieved May 13, 2021.
  42. ^ a b c Horwath, Bryan (June 17, 2021). "Construction milestone reached on MSG Sphere". Las Vegas Sun. Archived from the original on June 17, 2021. Retrieved June 19, 2021.
  43. ^ Wilcox, Kyle (June 17, 2021). "Behind the Scenes: Tour of the MSG Sphere". KSNV. Archived from the original on June 17, 2021. Retrieved June 19, 2021.
  44. ^ a b Shoro, Mike (June 17, 2021). "Massive MSG Sphere frame in place, work continues". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on June 18, 2021. Retrieved June 19, 2021.
  45. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (August 23, 2021). "Interior work set to begin on MSG Sphere". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on September 11, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
  46. ^ a b c Velotta, Richard N. (November 5, 2021). "MSG Sphere work moves indoors for screen, sound system". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on November 30, 2021. Retrieved November 30, 2021.
  47. ^ a b "MSG Sphere in Las Vegas enters new phase of construction". KSNV. November 4, 2021. Archived from the original on November 30, 2021. Retrieved November 30, 2021.
  48. ^ Phenix, Duncan (November 4, 2021). "MSG Sphere high-tech interior screens are next for construction crews". KLAS. Archived from the original on November 30, 2021. Retrieved November 30, 2021.
  49. ^ Lilly, Caitlin (May 23, 2022). "Crews to top off MSG Sphere venue in Las Vegas Tuesday". KVVU. Archived from the original on May 23, 2022. Retrieved May 29, 2022.
  50. ^ a b c d Velotta, Richard N. (May 25, 2022). "Construction crews top off MSG Sphere entertainment venue". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 31, 2022. Retrieved May 29, 2022.
  51. ^ "MSG Sphere in Las Vegas lights exterior for first time with Fourth of July display". July 5, 2023. Archived from the original on July 5, 2023. Retrieved July 5, 2023.
  52. ^ Griggs, Brandon (July 6, 2023). "This futuristic entertainment venue in Las Vegas is the world's largest spherical structure". CNN. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  53. ^ Brasch, Ben (July 10, 2023). "Here's the deal with the giant sphere causing a buzz in Las Vegas". The Washington Post. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  54. ^ a b Miranda, Carolina A. (September 13, 2023). "Sphere can be bizarre and sublime — or just an ad. That's what makes it so Vegas". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  55. ^ Miller, Ben (April 20, 2020). "Madison Square Garden Entertainment spin-off is complete". New York Business Journal. Retrieved July 22, 2020.
  56. ^ Chin, Kimberly (November 7, 2019). "Madison Square Garden to Spin Off Entertainment Unit". The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved July 22, 2020.
  57. ^ Vlessing, Etan (March 30, 2023). "Madison Square Garden Board Approves Spinoff Plans". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved July 27, 2024.
  58. ^ Jones, Finn-Olaf (October 1, 2023). "Las Vegas and Its Big, Big Ambitions". The New York Times. Retrieved October 11, 2023. Earlier this year, New York-based MSG Entertainment, which owns the Sphere, split in two, renaming the venue's holding company Sphere Entertainment Company in order to insulate MSG Entertainment's core holdings and protect existing shareholders.
  59. ^ Carter, Geoff (October 1, 2023). "U2's residency at Las Vegas' new Sphere unites technology and showmanship". Las Vegas Weekly. Retrieved October 11, 2023.
  60. ^ Wile, Rob (May 17, 2023). "Hundreds of U2 fans didn't know the seats they were buying for Las Vegas residency had limited views". NBC News. Archived from the original on May 17, 2023. Retrieved May 18, 2023.
  61. ^ Radke, Brock (April 24, 2023). "U2 set to open Sphere in Las Vegas on September 29–30". Las Vegas Weekly. Archived from the original on May 17, 2023. Retrieved May 18, 2023.
  62. ^ Alexander, Bryan. "U2 reveals first concert dates for Las Vegas Sphere. The Edge calls venue a 'quantum leap'". USA Today. Archived from the original on April 24, 2023. Retrieved April 24, 2023.
  63. ^ Ruggieri, Melissa (February 13, 2023). "U2 to play first live shows in four years at MSG Sphere, but without Larry Mullen Jr". USA Today. Archived from the original on May 16, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  64. ^ a b Katsilometes, John (January 24, 2023). "Sphere president sidesteps U2 questions, but promises 4-6 superstar acts". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  65. ^ Giardina, Carolyn (April 11, 2023). "New Content Unwrapped for MSG Sphere in Las Vegas". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on May 20, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  66. ^ Katsilometes, John (April 13, 2023). "MSG Sphere show to run up to 4 times a day". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 20, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  67. ^ a b Willman, Chris (October 7, 2023). "Darren Aronofsky on His Sphere Film, 'Postcard From Earth': 'I Had No Idea What an 18K Image Would Look Like, Four Football Fields Large'". Variety. Retrieved October 11, 2023.
  68. ^ Pearson, Paul (March 22, 2023). "Want to usher in U2? MSG Sphere looking to hire 3K workers". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 20, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  69. ^ Brewer, Ray (November 8, 2023). "Las Vegas Sphere reports $98.4 million loss; CFO quits". Las Vegas Sun.
  70. ^ a b c Velotta, Richard N. (January 27, 2023). "Sphere President: World's first 16K LED screen, 164K speakers, feel and smell await audiences". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on May 18, 2023. Retrieved May 18, 2023.
  71. ^ "The MSG Sphere: The Future of Live Concert Experiences". November 15, 2018. Archived from the original on November 16, 2018. Retrieved November 15, 2018.
  72. ^ a b Velotta, Richard N. (May 29, 2022). "MSG Sphere will dazzle — but it's not a sports arena". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on April 7, 2023. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  73. ^ Katsilometes, John (May 18, 2023). "MSG Sphere's latest issue: Blocked views for U2 shows". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 20, 2023.
  74. ^ Akers, Mick (May 19, 2018). "Planned sphere arena touted for unique audio and visual offerings". VegasInc. Archived from the original on February 18, 2021. Retrieved February 28, 2020.
  75. ^ a b Akers, Mick (February 21, 2018). "Planned sphere arena to use existing casino parking". Las Vegas Sun. Archived from the original on June 24, 2021. Retrieved February 28, 2020.
  76. ^ a b c d Newcomb, Tim (October 8, 2023). "The Las Vegas Sphere Is the World's Largest Spherical Structure—And an Engineering Marvel". Popular Mechanics. Retrieved February 4, 2024.
  77. ^ "World's largest LED screen makes 4 July debut". AV Magazine. July 5, 2023. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  78. ^ "How a small Montreal LED company lit up spectacular Las Vegas Sphere". Financial Post.
  79. ^ Lane, Taylor (August 2, 2023). "Here's the Sphere, by the numbers". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved September 20, 2023.
  80. ^ a b Lind, J. R. (September 25, 2023). "Achtung Baby! Sphere Is Here and the Future Is Now!". Pollstar. Vol. 43, no. 36. Retrieved September 27, 2023.
  81. ^ Bell, Jonathan (September 27, 2023). "How to conquer the Atomic City: the story behind U2 at the new Las Vegas Sphere". Wallpaper. Retrieved September 28, 2023.
  82. ^ a b "Sphere – Americas: Las Vegas/USA". MONDO-DR. Vol. 34, no. 2. January–February 2024. pp. 78–86. Retrieved February 4, 2024.
  83. ^ "Sphere & Now: Cutting-Edge Venue Officially Debuts on Las Vegas Strip". Las Vegas Review-Journal. August 22, 2023. Retrieved September 20, 2023.
  84. ^ a b "Las Vegas is Building the World's Largest Sphere". The B1M. August 25, 2021. Archived from the original on August 26, 2021. Retrieved August 26, 2021.
  85. ^ Giardina, Carolyn; Werpin, Alex (September 21, 2023). "The Las Vegas Sphere Is a 'Mind-Boggling' Vision of the Future of Entertainment". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved September 25, 2023.
  86. ^ Beard, Stephen J. (September 11, 2023). "The Sphere in Las Vegas is a new immersive experience and a glitzy add-on to the Strip". USA Today. Retrieved February 4, 2024.
  87. ^ a b Szydelko, Paul (June 21, 2022). "Changing the shape of entertainment in Las Vegas". Travel Weekly. Archived from the original on December 19, 2022. Retrieved December 19, 2022.
  88. ^ Radke, Brock (October 5, 2023). "The Las Vegas Sphere is primed to be a game-changing marketing platform". Las Vegas Weekly. Retrieved October 8, 2023.
  89. ^ Edser, Andy (July 11, 2024). "Las Vegas' dystopia-sphere, powered by 150 Nvidia GPUs and drawing up to 28,000,000 watts, is both a testament to the hubris of humanity and an admittedly impressive technical feat". PC Gamer. Retrieved July 21, 2024.
  90. ^ "Sphere Entertainment Unveils The Most Advanced Concert-Grade Audio System: Sphere Immersive Sound, Powered By HOLOPLOT" (Press release). Sphere Entertainment Co. PR Newswire. July 24, 2023. Retrieved July 30, 2023.
  91. ^ Brown, Eric Renner (July 24, 2023). "Sphere Executives Detail New Immersive Audio System For Las Vegas Venue". Billboard. Retrieved July 30, 2023.
  92. ^ Robledo, Anthony (July 24, 2023). "The Las Vegas Sphere flexed its size and LED images. Now it's teasing its audio system". USA Today. Retrieved July 30, 2023.
  93. ^ a b c Giardina, Carolyn (May 24, 2022). "Inside Construction of the MSG Sphere, the $1.8B Las Vegas Venue". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on May 29, 2022. Retrieved May 29, 2022.
  94. ^ a b Minetor, Randi (November 2023). "Sound in the Round". Lighting & Sound International. No. 433 (digital ed.). pp. 43i–43ii. Retrieved December 20, 2023.
  95. ^ Bracelin, Jason (July 24, 2023). "'The things you can do in here, it's incredible': The first look at Sphere Immersive Sound". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 30, 2023.
  96. ^ Barbour, David (November 2023). "U2 UV: Music of the Sphere". Lighting & Sound International. No. 433 (digital ed.). pp. 32–43. Retrieved November 12, 2023.
  97. ^ Harvey, Steve (December 4, 2023). "Mixing U2's Mighty Sound for the Sphere". Mix. Retrieved December 21, 2023.
  98. ^ a b "MSG Sphere, Las Vegas". Holoplot. Retrieved February 4, 2024.
  99. ^ Harvey, Steve (July 24, 2023). "To Hear The Sphere: First Peek at Landmark Vegas Venue's Immersive Sound". Mix. Retrieved October 3, 2023.
  100. ^ a b Kinnersley, Hannah (January 26, 2024). "HOLOPLOT's Unique Capabilities Transform Audio Experience At Sphere, Part 1". Live Design. Retrieved April 20, 2024.
  101. ^ Kinnersley, Hannah (January 30, 2024). "HOLOPLOT: The Challenge Of Creating A Sound System For Sphere, Part 2". Live Design. Retrieved April 20, 2024.
  102. ^ Gumble, Daniel (October 2023). "The Dawn of a New Era: Holoplot CEO Roman Sick Talks Sphere". Headliner. Retrieved April 20, 2024.
  103. ^ "Monorail station planned for MSG Sphere arena in Las Vegas". November 21, 2018. Archived from the original on November 28, 2018. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
  104. ^ "MSG Sphere will have Las Vegas Monorail station". December 20, 2018. Archived from the original on December 21, 2018. Retrieved December 21, 2018.
  105. ^ Akers, Mick (April 28, 2020). "Coronavirus puts halt to monorail stops at MSG Sphere, Mandalay Bay". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on November 30, 2021. Retrieved November 30, 2021.
  106. ^ "U2 Tickets | Las Vegas Dates & Event Details | Sphere". www.thespherevegas.com. Archived from the original on July 21, 2023. Retrieved August 24, 2023.
  107. ^ "Viva Phish Vegas: Jam band plays the Sphere in the spring". Las Vegas Review-Journal. November 30, 2023. Retrieved November 30, 2023.
  108. ^ Kaufman, Gil (February 2, 2024). "Dead & Company Reveal Dates for Dead Forever Summer Run at Las Vegas' Sphere". Billboard. Retrieved February 5, 2024.
  109. ^ Lind, J. R. (October 16, 2024). "Eagles Add 4 March Shows To Sphere Run". Pollstar. Retrieved October 16, 2024.
  110. ^ Steven J., Horowitz (September 30, 2024). "Anyma Adds Sphere Dates as First Electronic Act to Stage a Residency at the Las Vegas Venue". Variety. Retrieved September 30, 2024.
  111. ^ Katsilometes, John (July 30, 2023). "Sphere's 'Postcard' to be an Earth-shaking experience". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  112. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (August 22, 2023). "F1 race plans 'takeover' of Sphere; robots to provide tours at show". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  113. ^ Robledo, Anthony (September 19, 2023). "'Hello, humans': Meet Aura, the Las Vegas Sphere's humanoid robots designed to help guests". USA Today. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  114. ^ Lind, J. R. (August 21, 2024). "Sphere's Next Attraction: Immersive U2 Concert Film". Pollstar. Retrieved August 21, 2024.
  115. ^ "NHL finalizing details to hold 'dramatic' 2024 NHL Draft in Vegas Sphere | NHL.com". www.nhl.com. December 5, 2023. Retrieved December 5, 2023.
  116. ^ "UFC Is Headed to the Sphere 👀 | Highlights and Live Video from Bleacher Report". Bleacher Report. Retrieved November 13, 2023.
  117. ^ a b Giardina, Carolyn (April 23, 2022). "NAB: MSG Sphere Plans Unwrapped as Studio Explores Collaboration With Hollywood". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on May 29, 2022. Retrieved May 29, 2022.
  118. ^ "All you need to know about the planned MSG Sphere London". London Evening Standard. July 30, 2018. Archived from the original on October 20, 2018. Retrieved October 20, 2018.
  119. ^ Kennedy, Catherine (March 26, 2021). "Progress on MSG's Las Vegas 'sphere' offers glimpse of what could soon be built in East London". New Civil Engineer. Archived from the original on May 13, 2021. Retrieved May 13, 2021.
  120. ^ "Mayor rejects plan to build huge Vegas-style Sphere in London". ITV News. November 20, 2023. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
  121. ^ Liberty, Dunworth (November 20, 2023). "Sadiq Khan rejects plans for Las Vegas style Sphere in London". NME. Retrieved November 21, 2023.
  122. ^ Corrigan, Naomi (November 20, 2023). "'Viva Las Teesside': Ben Houchen's proposal for version of Sphere and 'bit of Las Vegas'". TeessideLive. Retrieved November 21, 2023.
  123. ^ Cajsa, Carlson (December 12, 2023). "MSG seeks to create "K-pop Sphere" for Hanam". dezeen. Retrieved December 13, 2023.
  124. ^ "The Owner of the Las Vegas Sphere Is Reportedly in 'Serious Talks' About a Second Location". Yahoo Life. December 12, 2023. Retrieved December 15, 2023.
  125. ^ Pilley, Max (December 21, 2023). "MSG Sphere venue could head to Abu Dhabi despite $98million loss in Vegas and rejection from London". NME.
  126. ^ Weprin, Alex (October 15, 2024). "Another Sphere Is Being Built, This Time In Abu Dhabi". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved October 15, 2024.
  127. ^ Giardina, Carolyn; Weprin, Alex (September 21, 2023). "The Las Vegas Sphere Is a 'Mind-Boggling' Vision of the Future of Entertainment". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
  128. ^ a b Giardina, Carolyn (May 19, 2022). "MSG Sphere Studios Opens in Burbank". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on May 29, 2022. Retrieved May 29, 2022.
  129. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (June 21, 2020). "Man behind 'Star Trek: The Experience' to direct MSG Sphere content". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Archived from the original on August 22, 2020. Retrieved August 23, 2020.
  130. ^ Gillan, Jeff (May 24, 2022). "MSG Sphere reaches another milestone; opening on track for 2023". KSNV. Archived from the original on May 29, 2022. Retrieved May 29, 2022.
  131. ^ Velotta, Richard N. (June 12, 2023). "Sphere technologists develop special camera for upcoming films". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved September 26, 2023.
[edit]