Sphere Entertainment Set To Build New, 6000-Seat Venue By Washington D.C.

We are all familiar with the giant glowing orb in Las Vegas. It was enough to satisfy humanity’s need for massive, immersive LED balls. Then Sphere Entertainment said, “Hold my…beer.” That’s right, folks. The company behind the viral sensation that is the Las Vegas Sphere has decided to bless (or perhaps curse, depending on whom you ask) the East Coast with its very own version. However, there is a catch: it’s a “mini” Sphere…because apparently, size does matter, but sometimes you just have to work with what you’ve got.

What in the World is a “Mini” Sphere?

So, here’s the deal. Sphere Entertainment has announced plans to build a new venue at National Harbor in Maryland, just a stone’s throw — or a 15-minute drive, traffic permitting — from Washington, D.C. Unlike its colossal cousin in Sin City, which seats about 18,000 people, this new venue will only seat 6,000. It’s like the travel-sized version of the original. Cute, right? Vegas really shouldn’t have all the fun. 

Don’t let the “mini” label fool you, though. This thing is still going to be a major technological beast. It promises to feature the same iconic “Exosphere” (that’s the fancy name for the outside screen that stares into your soul) and a mind-melting 16K x 16K interior LED display plane. Wow! We’re talking haptic seating that shakes your booty and 4D environmental effects that probably spray you with mist or smells, because nothing says “immersive entertainment” like simulated weather inside a giant ball. As if DC swamplands aren’t humid enough…

Why Maryland? Why Now?

You might be asking, “Why Maryland?” Well, Governor Wes Moore seems pretty stoked about it. According to WBAL, he’s calling it one of the largest economic development projects in Prince George’s County history. The state is throwing some seriously big cash at this thing, too — we’re talking a cool $200 million in state, local, and private incentives. —Thanks, Governor Moore. 

James Dolan, the big boss over at Sphere Entertainment, per GamingAmerica, claims their focus has always been on creating a “global network of Spheres.” Basically, they want these things everywhere. Maryland is just the first stop on their plan for world domination via spherical entertainment. The goal is to “elevate and advance immersive experiences” across the area. Translation: They want to give tourists and locals something to stare at other than the Potomac River.

The Economic “Sphere” of Influence

Let’s talk numbers, because that’s what really makes the world go round (pun intended). Officials are projecting that this project will create 2,500 construction jobs and then another 4,750 operational jobs once the project is actually up and running. They’re estimating an annual economic impact of over $1 billion. That’s certainly a lot of zeroes.

Local leaders are buzzing about how this will cement National Harbor’s status as a top-tier entertainment hub. Jon Peterson, CEO of Peterson Companies, states it’s going to deliver more economic activity and elevate the region. Essentially, they’re hoping this glowing orb will be the golden ticket to bringing in more tourists, conventions, and money.

Not Everyone is Ready to Embrace the Orb

Of course, not everyone is popping the champagne bottles over this announcement. If you dive into the comments section (a dangerous place, we know), you’ll find plenty of locals who aren’t exactly thrilled. Some are worried about the increased traffic, while others are concerned about light pollution. Having a giant, programmable ball of light next door might make sleeping a bit tricky.

There is also the question of public funding. Whenever tax dollars get involved in building fancy entertainment venues, eyebrows get raised. Is a mini Sphere really the best use of funds? How about fixing up the infrastructure that already exists? Making the roads better? That is a debate that’s sure to rage on while the construction crews get to work.

What’s Next in the Sphere Saga?

This Maryland project is still in the “intent” phase, meaning there are still agreements to be signed and governmental hoops to jump through. If all goes according to plan, National Harbor will soon be home to the second Sphere in the U.S. and the third globally (shoutout to the planned one in Abu Dhabi).

So, get ready, East Coast. The Sphere is coming. It might be smaller, it might be controversial, but one thing is for sure: it’s going to be glowingly impossible to ignore. Whether you’re excited for 4D concerts or dreading the inevitable traffic jams (and even higher electric bills), the Mini Sphere is likely rolling into town.