FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2025

 

Arizona Science Center Announces Pre-Opening Celebrations and Exclusive Event Capabilities of the All-New Dorrance DOME

 

PHOENIX - Arizona Science Center is proud to announce a weeklong series of exclusive events leading up to the highly anticipated opening of the Dorrance DOME, a state-of-the-art immersive venue featuring cutting-edge Cosm technology. From October 16 to 18, guests, media, members, and the community will be among the first to experience this groundbreaking new space, designed to inspire and connect through science, art, and culture.

In addition to being a hub for innovative programming, the Dorrance DOME is also available for private events, offering one of the Valley’s most unique and versatile venues. With capacity for 100 guests cocktail-style, 60 guests reception-style, and 205 guests theater-style, the Dorrance DOME provides an extraordinary setting for corporate gatherings, conferences, weddings, and social celebrations.

Adding to the experience, M Culinary Concepts and Cre8ive Event Rentals, Inc. have been named as the premier culinary and event design partners for the Dorrance DOME. Their collaboration ensures seamless hospitality and an elevated presentation for all attendees, setting a new standard for events hosted at the Arizona Science Center.

“Dorrance DOME is not only a new chapter for Arizona Science Center but also for the Valley’s cultural and event landscape,” said Tammy Stewart, Interim Hazel A. Hare President & CEO, Arizona Science Center. “With flexible event options and premier partners like M Culinary and Cre8tive, we are redefining what it means to host unforgettable experiences in Phoenix.”

The opening event series includes:

Thursday, October 16 

Media & VIP Preview
8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Guests—including media professionals, producers, reporters, influencers, and other VIPs—will experience the all-new Dorrance DOME, featuring cutting-edge Cosm technology. This immersive experience is designed to captivate audiences, spark conversation, and generate excitement, helping to increase awareness of the all-new space. Seating is limited. To reserve a space for the event, please email celikk@azscience.org 

Hospitality & Event Planners Showcase
12:30 - 2:00 p.m.

The event will highlight the Dorrance DOME as a unique and versatile venue ideal for meetings, conferences, and private events. Invitees—including destination management companies, meeting planners, event planners, wedding planners and local hotel contacts—will experience the space firsthand, positioning it as a compelling option for future bookings and corporate gatherings. Seating is limited. To reserve a space for the event, please email celikk@azscience.org 

Grand Opening Event
5:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Join us for a special evening as we unveil the Dorrance DOME — a visionary space designed to inspire, connect, and transform our community. Be among the first to experience this groundbreaking venue while supporting future programming that will bring art, science, and culture to life under the 60-foot LED dome. Sponsors for the Grand Opening event include APS, Ryan Companies US, Inc. and SRP, among others. 

Multiple ticket options, beginning at $250 ticket, are available for the event and space is limited. To reserve tickets, click here. 

Friday, October 17

Member Exclusive Showings featuring curated LED dome experiences, from astronomy to art. This one-day-only complimentary experience is a thank you to our Members, giving them unparalleled early access to Arizona’s newest landmark for science and discovery. With showings that span astronomy, black holes, and even pop art, there’s something to inspire every curious mind. Reservations are encouraged as seating is limited. Exclusive Complimentary Member Showtimes include:

    • Astronomy Tour: Arizona — 12:30 p.m.
    • Orbital — 1:15 p.m.
    • Black Hole: First Picture — 2:45 p.m.
    • Inside Pop Art — 3:30 p.m.

Not a Member yet? Now is the perfect time to join. Membership not only grants you early access to the Dorrance DOME but also year-round benefits, including free admission, discounts, and invitations to special events. Become part of our community today and secure your chance to preview the Dorrance DOME before the public grand opening!

Saturday, October 18

Opening Day welcomes the community with immersive LED dome shows and festivities. Opening day will be filled with festivities, discovery, and unforgettable moments, making it the perfect opportunity for families, science enthusiasts, and culture-seekers alike. Tickets are now on sale—secure your spot in history and be part of this milestone celebration. Showtimes: 

    • Orbital 11:00 a.m. | 1:15 p.m. 
    • Black Hole: First Picture 11:45 a.m. | 2:45 p.m. 
    • Astronomy Tour: Arizona 12:30 p.m. 
    • Inside Pop Art 3:30 p.m. 

To purchase advance tickets, view showtimes, or for more information about the Dorrance DOME and continued updates, visit DorranceDOME.com. 

To preview images of the future space: click here.

For Media Inquiries:

 

About Arizona Science Center 

Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center is home to the Dorrance DOME—one of the most advanced digital domes in the world—where immersive astronomy shows, live performances, and community events bring art, science, and culture together beneath a dazzling 60-foot display.

Beyond the Dorrance DOME, the Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and dynamic STEM programs for all ages. Offerings include Science on Wheels, CAMP INNOVATION, teen initiatives, professional development workshops, and Adults’ Night Out: Science With A TWIST. Whether onsite or at your location, the Center delivers unforgettable, hands-on STEM learning experiences.

To learn more or reserve tickets, visit azscience.org or call 602.716.2000. Follow us on  Instagram, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and  YouTube. 

###



Map