Sphere's Wizard of Oz Gets New 4D Effects for September

Sphere Entertainment is adding new 4D effects to The Wizard of Oz, debuting Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, in Las Vegas. The added elements include animatronic Winged Monkeys and pyrotechnic fireworks. Guests will also experience "Glinda Glitter" and themed scents. Scented apples will now fall from the ceiling during key scenes. Tickets for the show are on sale through early 2027. Sphere President and COO Jennifer Koester said the updates deepen immersion for guests. The show has already drawn more than 3.6 million guests since opening.

Sphere Reveals New Effects and Scents for Wizard of Oz

Sphere announced the enhancements Monday ahead of the September rollout. Animatronic Winged Monkeys will now fly directly over the audience. Additional pyrotechnic fireworks will accompany key moments in the story.

"Glinda Glitter" adds a new sensory element during the good witch's scenes. Falling apples will also carry scent for the first time since the show's launch. New aromas will fill the venue during other key scenes as well. Dorothy's Kansas scenes will include farm and prairie-like smells. Emerald City will feature a fresh evergreen scent to match its setting.

The changes mark the biggest sensory overhaul since the show's 2025 debut.

Koester and Dolan Detail the 'Wizard of Oz 2.0' Vision

"At Sphere, we're constantly exploring new ways to push the boundaries of immersive storytelling," Koester said. She added the enhancements target the show's most memorable moments. Koester said the update is meant to "immerse and transport audiences deeper into the world of Oz."

The original production already features drone-controlled monkeys and simulated wind. Executive Chairman and CEO James Dolan has called the update "Wizard of Oz 2.0." Dolan first teased new monkeys and witch scenes earlier this year. The show has staged more than 850 performances since its debut. It remains Sphere's top-grossing attraction heading into the fall season. The enhancements were developed alongside the show's original creative team.