The National Football League (NFL), NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and Cirque du Soleil have announced plans for a first-of-its-kind, 40,000-square-foot, four-story NFL attraction in New York’s Times Square.
The exhibit, called the “NFL Time Square” experience, will be located at 20 Times Square and is set to open in fall 2017. It will capture fans’ passion for football through an engaging blend of high-tech displays, as well as immersive and interactive elements. Fans will have the opportunity to test their skills to see how they measure up to professional football players and learn game strategy, in addition to experiencing NFL action.
The attraction will include a theater with about 350 seats surrounded by high-definition screens and state-of-the-art technology. The 20-minute show, co-produced with NFL Films, will invite fans to immerse themselves in the NFL and experience what it feels like to be in the game, on the sidelines and behind the scenes.
In addition to the multimedia show and interactive activities, there will be educational programming on the art of tackling and passing, on-site retail, stadium-style food-and-beverage offerings and special artifacts on display. Hall of Famers, current and retired players will make appearances and participate in fan experiences.
“The NFL and Cirque du Soleil are two iconic global brands,” says NFL Chief Marketing Officer Dawn Hudson. “We are pleased to team with this industry leader to set the new standard of excellence in sports and entertainment. We are thrilled to re-imagine what it means to authentically engage with fans by providing them an immersive, innovative experience celebrating football and available year-round. We hope to bring fans of all ages and avidity into the huddle and give them an all-access pass to players and teams.”
For more information, visit nfl.com. — J.L.