StageOne set new standards in the audiovisual landscape by hosting the landmark “ArtOfTech” event, marking the South African launch of the FBT Myra Line Array System. The exclusive event, held at the Vodacom World Events Dome on August 7, 2024, showcased the Myra system and introduced a new range of BeamZ Pro lighting fixtures to top industry professionals.
Peter Berry, the founder of StageOne, tasked his team with transcending traditional demo events to deliver an extraordinary experience. “The ‘ArtOfTech’ was more than just a product launch; the production successfully merged technology with creativity to produce something truly special,” Berry explained.
The evening’s highlight was “The Art of Light,” an immersive live production that took the audience on a captivating journey through the creation of light. Narrated between five dance scenes depicting elements like fire, storm, and earth, the production demonstrated the seamless integration of BeamZ Pro lighting and FBT audio to transform storytelling within a live theatrical setting.
Over 350 select clients experienced live audio demonstrations of FBT’s premier line arrays: Horizon, Muse, and the star of the show, Myra—FBT’s flagship line array system for mid to large-size touring applications and high-end fixed installations. Kyle Freemantle, a respected freelance sound engineer, praised the Myra for its user-friendly rigging and exceptional sound quality. “The FBT Myra features one of the most straightforward rigging systems so intuitive you might think you’re doing it wrong. The touring chariots are sturdy and well-designed, facilitating easy truck packing and storage. The cabinets, lighter than they appear, offer solid handles that make handling a breeze,” explained Freemantle. “Sonically, these cabinets require very little effort to sound fantastic. System EQ and other tuning features are all managed onboard by the amps through the remote software. The Myra gives you a big sonic hug and handles anything you throw at it with ease—a great sounding cabinet, complemented by an immense double 18-inch subwoofer, embodying everything you’d want from a large format sound system. FBT has truly excelled with this system, and I look forward to seeing it in the field.”
Paul Newman from Lucidity shared his enthusiasm, “I was impressed with the BeamZ Pro product range on show and believe that as a brand it’s definitely stepped up to the plate.” Reflecting on the event’s impact, he added, “Coming into the venue, I had no idea what we were all about to experience. I’ve been to many product launches, and I have to say I was not expecting that. It was an amazing production that definitely showcased what the brands are about.” He continued, “As for FBT, the FBT brand is now playing in the big league. I think now it really only comes down to personal choice and brand loyalty.”
Lloyd Wild from Monster Productions echoed this sentiment, “I was really impressed by the FBT Myra, but I also loved the Muse for its modular versatility, essential in today’s market.” Wild highlighted the cost-effectiveness of BeamZ Pro fixtures, emphasising their substantial return on investment compared to more expensive industry standards. “What I really enjoyed was seeing the lights in action during a programmed show in a professional setting. StageOne has made a serious statement about the BeamZ Pro brand.”
The event not only introduced the Myra but also positioned BeamZ Pro as a key player in the professional rental market, demonstrating that high-quality production can be achieved without prohibitive costs.
Peter Berry concluded, ” The ’ArtOfTech’ Event marked a new chapter for StageOne, and I couldn’t be more excited for what the future holds.”