Maryland leaders unveiled plans to build the nation’s second Sphere in National Harbor, with Oxon Hill set to become home to a miniature version of the unique entertainment venue that opened in Las Vegas.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy and Sphere Entertainment CEO James Dolan made the joint announcement about constructing a scaled-down spot for concerts and other events just outside of the nation’s capital.
The Sphere in Maryland would have a seating capacity of about 6,000, as opposed to 18,000 in Las Vegas.
The venue would still feature the wraparound displays on the outside and panoramic screens on the inside that have made it a landmark in Las Vegas’ skyline.
“This will be one of the largest economic development projects in Prince George’s County history — proving once again our state is the best place in the country to bring dreams to life,” Mr. Moore said. “We’re excited for what this means for our people, and how it will showcase the best of what Maryland has to offer to everyone who visits.”
Renderings for the mini-Sphere show the venue being built right next to the MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino.
Officials did not provide a completion date for the project, but said it would make use of at least $200 million in state, local and private funds.
Sphere representatives said 2,500 jobs will be needed for the construction phase, and once finished, about 4,750 jobs to open and run the venue.
Officials said the mini-Sphere would generate more than $1 billion annually in revenue.
Last year, the Sphere in Las Vegas was ranked as one of the top-grossing venues worldwide by both Billboard and Pollstar.
“This is a world-class win and an incredibly exciting moment for Prince George’s County,” said Ms. Braveboy, the county executive.
“As only the second Sphere venue in the United States, this project demonstrates the future of economic development in Prince George’s County, how we compete, how we win, and how we attract other world-class destinations that will become flagship projects for our County, our State, and the entire region,” she said.
