Abu Dhabi announces plans for second Sphere entertainment venue, following Las Vegas success

admin 2024年10月22日

Intermediate

entertainment, entertainment - intermediate

©(AP Photo/Nick Didlick, File)

Pre-reading questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

What types of buildings are most commonly found in tourist areas?
What features make these buildings appealing to visitors?

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

announce /uh-NOUNS/

[verb] – to make something known publicly or officially, especially a plan or decision
The company will announce the new product launch next week at the conference.

construction /kuhn-STRUHK-shuhn/

[noun] – the process of building or assembling something, such as a building, road, or machine
The construction of the new bridge will be completed by the end of the year.

franchise /FRAN-chahyz/

[adjective] – relating to or being a part of a business or service that is operated under a license to use a parent company’s name and system
The franchise restaurant must follow the same guidelines as the other locations.

strategy /STRAT-i-jee/

[noun] – a plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall goal
The company’s new marketing strategy helped increase sales by 20%.

auditorium /aw-di-TAWR-ee-uhm/

[noun] – a large room or building used for gatherings such as concerts, speeches, or performances
The school’s auditorium was filled with parents for the annual talent show.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

Plans have been announced for the construction of the world’s second Sphere in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. This project was revealed by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, in partnership with Sphere Entertainment Co. It is expected to enhance the region’s entertainment sector significantly. The agreement specifies that Abu Dhabi will pay a franchise fee to Sphere Entertainment for replicating the original Sphere’s design from Las Vegas. The local government will be responsible for the construction expenses and annual payments for creative and artistic content. This development is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to diversify its entertainment offerings.

The Sphere in Las Vegas, which opened in 2023, required a significant investment of $2.3 billion and features the world’s largest LED screen, which surrounds half of its 17,500-seat auditorium. The Abu Dhabi Sphere will aim to differentiate itself from neighboring Dubai, which is also expanding its entertainment industry. Despite the excitement, experts have cautioned that past projects in the UAE, such as a rejected Sphere in East London, have faced delays or cancellations due to economic challenges. The success of this new project depends on careful planning and economic stability.

Comprehension questions

I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.

Who revealed plans for the construction of the second Sphere in Abu Dhabi?
What is the main purpose of building the Sphere in Abu Dhabi?
What financial arrangement is Abu Dhabi required to follow as part of this project?
Who will cover the construction costs of the Sphere in Abu Dhabi?
What significant feature does the Sphere in Las Vegas have?

Discussion questions