In winged monkeys, and in life, there is always room for improvement.
Sphere has announced “expanded” use of the animatronic flying primates in “The Wizard of Oz” movie (or theatrical experience). Upgrades are set to debut Sept. 25.
Sphere has also added dates for “WOZ” into 2027. The production runs up to four times daily in the venue’s 5,000-seat setting. “WOZ” will alternate show times with “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” with its March premiere timeline.
The full menu of “Wizard” enhancements:
— A flight of new animatronic winged monkeys soaring over the audience.
— New scents to “bring scenes to life,” as Sphere reps promise.
— “Glinda Glitter” filling the venue.
— Additional pyrotechnics.
— New scented apples, the famous keepsakes that have wound up for sale for up to $200 online, offered for $10 apiece (limit two per customer) at the Sphere gift shop or on the venue’s official website.
“WOZ” opened in August 2025 and has been a critical and box office success. The production has sold more than 3.6 million tickets, generating more than $450 million.
“At Sphere, we’re constantly exploring new ways to push the boundaries of immersive storytelling and create new experiences for our audiences,” Sphere President and COO Jennifer Koester said in a statement. “The upcoming enhancements to ‘The Wizard of Oz at Sphere’ 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.”
John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. Contact him at [email protected]. Follow @johnnykats on X, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.