Phish to Deliver Immersive Experience at The Sphere in Las Vegas

Phish, the legendary improvisational rock band, is set to perform four unique shows at The Sphere in Las Vegas, a new immersive performance venue. The shows, which begin on April 18, 2024, will feature mind-blowing visuals, with a floor-to-ceiling screen that can be manipulated in real-time during the band's long jams, and a state-of-the-art sound system with over 1,600 speakers.

Trey Anastasio, the band's frontman, says the shows will have a theme and hidden "Easter eggs" for the band's dedicated legion of fans. Unlike U2's 40-show residency at The Sphere, which had a mostly consistent setlist and visuals, Phish has committed to creating four completely unique shows, as the band has never repeated a setlist in its 40-year history. "We're going to sculpt the show to our strengths but also sculpt it to take advantage of the technology in the room in a way that Phish fans will appreciate," Anastasio told the Associated Press.

The $2.3 billion Sphere offers Phish fans an immersive experience like never before. Anastasio emphasizes that the shows will be the first to be livestreamed from the Sphere, and the band has worked tirelessly to create a thematic narrative and unique setlists for each of the four performances, with no repeated songs. "The idea is for the energy and vibration of the room to be different from night to night," he said.

Why this matters: Phish's residency at The Sphere marks a significant milestone in the band's decades-long career and showcases the potential of immersive technology in live music performances. The unique approach to each show highlights the band's commitment to creativity and their deep connection with their dedicated fanbase.

Anastasio acknowledges the band's deep connection with their dedicated fanbase, who have supported them for 40 years, and the responsibility the band feels to continue raising the bar and honoring their loyal fans. "We're never going to stop trying to raise the bar. People come to see Phish shows to see something new," he said.

SiriusXM's Phish Radio (Channel 29) will celebrate the band's debut performances at the technologically-advanced arena with Sphere weekend in Las Vegas programming. Each of the four concerts will be broadcast in their entireties the next day at 12 p.m. ET exclusively on Phish Radio, and the finale will air live on Phish Radio on Sunday, April 21 starting at 10 p.m. ET.

Anastasio emphasizes the importance of creativity, teamwork, and communication within the band, as well as the crucial role played by their dedicated fan community in shaping their performances. He said, "The teamwork that it takes to mount something like this is a testament to everybody in the community." The shows at The Sphere promise to be an unforgettable experience for Phish fans, showcasing the band's unparalleled improvisational skills and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of live music.

Key Takeaways

• Phish to perform 4 unique shows at The Sphere in Las Vegas in April 2024.
• Shows will feature immersive visuals, state-of-the-art sound, and no repeated songs.
• Performances will be the first to be livestreamed from The Sphere.
• Phish Radio will broadcast the shows, with the finale airing live.
• Phish aims to raise the bar and honor their dedicated fanbase of 40 years.