Leading London nightclub Pacha has recently upgraded its entire effects lighting system three years after opening. However, there was no need to update their Avolites Azure 2000 lighting console.
The Azure 2000 console, which offers 50 instant access playbacks, was chosen when the club opened by house LD and technician Brian Kell. According to Kell–a club-lighting veteran, working five-years at The Cross, and regular sessions at Canvas and Fabric–the Azure is his favorite lighting console. “It’s perfect for club work, giving extremely quick access to lots of playbacks. It’s also great for improvising and working ‘live,’ which is essential for any club environment.”
With six-, seven- or eight-hour board sessions not uncommon, Kell does all his primetime Friday and Saturday night operating at the club on the fly. “I go with the DJ, the music, and the mood of the moment,” says Kell talking about his operating style. “The Azure is ideal for this modus operandi.” He also does occasional Sunday night slots and some corporate events when the club is hired out during the week.
The original lighting rig in Pacha was 12 Martin MAC 250s and four Martin Roboscan 918s, one Atomic strobe and six High End Systems Trackspots. The upgrade includes 16 Martin MAC 250 Kryptons, four Golden Scan Fours, and three Atomics. The RoboColors and Trackspots remain on the rig.
Although the Azure is compact enough to fit into DJ and club control booths, it handles four DMX universes. Others Avolites Azure 2000 club installations include The Cross, La Scala, Fabric, and Mass and The Fridge in Brixton.
Pacha is a high-profile, 850-capacity venue located opposite Victoria station in London.