Over in Inglewood, besides the airport there is alot going on. One stop over the weekend was a large building complex called COSM. COSM broke ground at Hollywood Park in early 2022, signaling its commitment to redefining immersive entertainment. COSM aims to revolutionize the entertainment landscape by offering immersive experiences that transcend traditional viewing. By integrating advanced LED dome technology with spatial audio and curated content, the venue provides audiences with unparalleled access to live sports, cinematic productions, and artistic installations. This approach positions COSM as a pioneer in the realm of shared, immersive entertainment. The venue opened its doors to the public on July 13, 2024, following a series of private previews and soft launches. And so it was that this weekend, the venerable Las Vegas hit, “O” was seen inside the COSM. Presented as a  reimagined version of the iconic aquatic show, it offers audiences an unprecedented vantage points with the dome’s immersive capabilities. At first glance, its a bit disconcerting—it is live? Is that a movie? What is it? There are levels within COSM—tiers that offer vantage points—it is advised to NOT sit on the sides, but in the middle where the film makes most sense. It is clear, due to audience applause, this is a taped show before a live audience. It is immersive in the sense that it is 360 in view; there is always something happening from top to bottom, side to side. It is not without the ocassional blur in the footage.

It is evident that this large venue is meant for mass audiences. Here is a breakdown:

 Main Dome Theater

• LED Dome Screen: The centerpiece is an 87-foot diameter, 180-degree wraparound LED screen boasting 12K+ resolution. This massive display envelops the audience, providing an unparalleled visual experience that extends beyond the traditional field of view.

• Seating Capacity: The theater accommodates up to 1,500 guests across three tiers, ensuring that every seat offers an immersive perspective. The design fosters a communal atmosphere, enhancing the shared reality experience.

• Audio System: Equipped with 38 speakers and 15 subwoofers integrated behind the LED panels, the spatial audio system delivers dynamic soundscapes that complement the visual immersion.

 The Hall and Amenities

• The Hall: Adjacent to the main dome, The Hall serves as a two-story open-air bar and restaurant. It offers a variety of food and beverage options, providing guests with a place to socialize before or after events.

• Rooftop Lounge: For those seeking a more elevated experience, the rooftop lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding Hollywood Park area, creating a relaxed environment for patrons.

• Lobby and Digital Displays: The venue’s lobby features a 150-foot digital screen that showcases upcoming events and artistic content, setting the tone for the immersive experiences within.

 Programming and Experiences

• Live Sports: COSM offers live “Shared Reality” broadcasts of major sporting events, including NBA games and UFC matches, providing fans with unique perspectives and immersive viewing experiences.

• Artistic Installations: The venue hosts immersive works such as SEEK by Nancy Baker Cahill, LIQUIDVERSE by Ricardo Romaneiro, and Orbital by Planetary Collective, showcasing the versatility of the dome’s capabilities.

• Theatrical Productions: Reimagined versions of iconic shows, like Cirque du Soleil’s “O,” are presented in the dome format, offering audiences unprecedented vantage points through the venue’s immersive technology.