Eat The Beat has evolved from event-based programming into a permanent, curated multi-space venue, with its first location now open in Melbourne’s CBD.
Set across two levels in a converted heritage building, Eat The Beat’s new multi-room venue includes interconnected spaces, two main dance floors, an intimate third room, hidden areas, lounges, and additional entertainment spaces throughout.
Each room features a custom lighting concept by Ontrack Lighting, and managing director Paul Nardella readily recommends ShowPRO fixtures.
“We had supplied the client with ShowPRO E3 LED Spots in their previous venue, and he said he wanted the same kind of reliable fixture,” said Paul. “We had the fixtures in there for five years, and zero maintenance was required. They didn’t do anything to them, and they just worked every week for those five years, which is just crazy.”
The new venue had a few restrictions, such as limited roof loading and few rigging opportunities, which meant only a lightweight fixture could be installed.
“We required a fixture that weighed under 10 kilos, and as I have 40 ShowPRO Cyber Beams in my hire inventory, I knew they were the ideal answer as they only weigh 7kg,” commented Paul. “Also, as the music is predominantly techno, the fixture needed to be fast and bright, and the Cyber Beam is definitely that!”
The Cyber Beam pairs a large 110mm front lens with an ultra-tight 2.2° beam, producing a punchy, solid output that cuts easily through fog and haze. With a fast colour wheel, 8-facet rotating prism, and infinite pan-and-tilt movement, it is designed to engage any crowd.
Eat The Beat’s two-level dance floor uses eight Cyber Beams and a Look Solutions Unique 2.1 Hazer on each level. With a frost filter installed, the fixtures are also occasionally used for corporate events downstairs.
“The Cyber Beam is incredible: compact, bright, and great value,” added Paul. “The colour selection, pan and tilt, and output for its size are all impressive. With the prism and frost, you can create some really striking effects beyond a standard beam.”
Level 1 was formerly a restaurant, and Paul says that transforming a restaurant into a nightclub is not easy.
“I wanted to bring in plenty of colour and visual appeal, so I installed 16 ShowPRO LED FusionPAR H XII fixtures for a roof wash,” he said. “They’re impressive little workhorses, offering excellent colour depth and range. Like the Cyber Beams, you can rely on them to perform every time.”
Paul is busy installing more Cyber Beams into another Melbourne club – more on that later!
