"Atlas9 is proof that the state of Kansas can dream big and deliver experiences found nowhere else," said Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. "This incredible activation will inspire audiences, empower artists and invite visitors to see our state in a new light. By embracing immersive art at this scale, Kansas signals to the world that we are ready to lead in the future of creative expression."
In the past decade, immersive art experiences have become a rapidly expanding part of global cultural tourism, combining physical installations, pop-up venues and digital mediums. In the U.S. alone, immersive entertainment – of all types – has been valued at approximately $33 billion (2023), with projections to reach $122 billion by 2030, according to Grand View Research.
This also comes as Kansas City's nonprofit arts and culture sector has burst onto the national scene. In fact, it has generated more than $615 million in economic activity, supporting more than 9,000 jobs in the region, with standout offerings like The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.
"Kansas City, Kan., has long been a place where creativity, craftsmanship and innovation come together to shape bold new ideas. Atlas9 is a shining example of that spirit and a groundbreaking space brought to life by incredible talent," said Tyrone Garner, mayor, Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kan. "This project not only reflects the vision that defines our city, but also sets the stage for Kansas City, Kan., to become a premier destination for creators, designers, artists and tourists from across the country and around the world. We're proud to welcome Atlas9 and the energy it brings to our city's future."
For its work on Atlas9, Dimensional Innovations channeled decades of experience in creating activations for brand and cultural icons – including organizations such as AMC, Cinemark, CPKC Stadium, Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, and the Evel Knievel Museum, among many others. This visionary work has prepared DI to unleash a cinematic adventure that fully immerses and inspires its guests.
"Our team of designers and craftsmen have pushed the boundaries of environmental storytelling to create an interactive experience unlike anything else in the Midwest. It's a destination people will want to experience again and again," said Tucker Trotter, CEO of Dimensional Innovations. "Of course, Kansas City is the perfect place for this sort of installation – because it's a city full of dreamers, builders and believers in big ideas."
Atlas9, an entirely new, ground-up development, introduces a first-of-its-kind fusion of immersive storytelling and live performance to the Midwest. It has been developed as a joint venture between DI and Homefield, with the building's shell designed by Perspective Architecture + Design. Shawnee, Kan.-based DI Build served as the project's general contractor and construction manager, with support from Superior Bowen for amenity construction. As part of this project, DI led a multi-year design and fabrication period blending architectural ingenuity with theatrical set design and advanced technology integration.
Atlas9 will ignite the imagination and continue to fuel Kansas City's explosive rise as a cultural powerhouse. It is located at 1100 N. 98th St., in Kansas City, Kan. Ticket prices for the Atlas9 experience are as follows: $40 for adults and $30 for children, with additional discounts available. Its hours of operation are: Tuesday-Thursday, 2-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday 12-11 p.m.; and Sunday 12-8 p.m.
More details about Atlas9 and its latest events calendar can be found at www.atlas9.com/
About Atlas9
Atlas9 is an interactive narrative experience set inside a fictitious '90s movie theater, which has been inexplicably transformed. Scenes from "forgotten films" of the '90s have materialized and come to life. Forty-six thousand square feet set the scene for this immersive playground, where visitors can dive into dynamic installations, conspire with performers, and explore the environment to unfold the mysterious story. With a classic video arcade, hidden story points, a clandestine government agency and a mysterious story to solve, Atlas9 is the Midwest's premier narrative-driven immersive art experience. Learn more at: www.atlas9.com.
About Dimensional Innovations
Dimensional Innovations (DI) is an experience design, technology and fabrication firm that brings remarkable spaces to life for leading brands, teams and institutions worldwide. Headquartered in Kansas City, DI has been delivering transformative experiences for over 30 years through its concept-to-completion approach across sports, cultural, higher education, entertainment, healthcare, corporate and transportation work. With more than 230 in-house experts and 200,000 square feet of dedicated design and fabrication facilities, DI creates shared moments that engage the senses and elevate brand experiences. Learn more at www.dimin.com.
About Swell Spark
Swell Spark is the parent company of interactive entertainment brands, including Breakout KC / Breakout Waikiki escape rooms; Blade & Timber axe throwing; and a new indoor mini golf cocktail bar, Sinkers Lounge. Swell Spark identifies high-growth entertainment concepts and builds sustainable brands. Learn more at swellspark.com.
About Quixotic
Quixotic is an innovative performance art collective that fuses imagination with technology, dance, projection mapping and live music to create fully immersive, multi-sensory experiences. Quixotic harnesses light, rhythm and expressive emotion. Learn more: quixoticfusion.com.
About Homefield
Homefield is a property manager that focuses on athletic development and training programs, with multiple facilities around Kansas City area. The company was founded in the fall of 2019 and looks to provide leadership pathways for all athletes that come to the facilities. For more information visit: www.homefieldkc.com.
SOURCE Dimensional Innovations
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