Beyond the Stage

The U2: UV Achtung Baby Residency at Sphere in Las Vegas is a groundbreaking fusion of music, art, and technology that challenges traditional concert norms. Show director Willie Williams emphasizes that this event is as much an art exhibition as it is a pop show.

Sphere is an enormous, cutting-edge venue. Its size is unmatched, with a spherical construction that is 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide, making it the largest spherical structure in the entire globe. The venue’s interior is adorned with astonishing 16K x 16K resolution displays, which offer a visual experience akin to nine IMAX screens combined.

The technology within Sphere goes beyond visuals; it enables dynamic changes in temperature and scent, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The sound quality has been lauded by U2’s bass player, Adam Clayton, as superior to any other concert venue the band has performed in.

U2’s objective is to transform this residency into a captivating art show that immerses the audience in a sensory overload, redefining the future of musical performances. Unlike conventional concerts, the artists’ works will be presented in acts, creating a continuous and seamless visual experience within Sphere’s curved walls. The absence of visible seams between the walls and ceiling amplifies the immersive effect.

The artists involved have crafted pieces that resonate with the Las Vegas setting.

Brian Eno’s LED Turntable stage uses an algorithm to change colors dynamically throughout the show.

Marco Brambilla’s video installation, “King Size,” pays homage to Elvis Presley and explores themes of excess and indulgence.

Es Devlin’s “Nevada Ark” addresses climate change through sculptures of endangered species.

The ambition of this project is to inspire collective imagination and create a unique, unprecedented experience for both the band and the audience. Sphere’s innovative technology and design promise to make this residency an unforgettable fusion of music and art.