Australia – dBTechnologies loudspeaker systems played a key role in a recent production at the Cremorne Theatre, part of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), where a six-week, sold-out run of Little Shop of Horrors took place. With a capacity of 300 seats and a highly adaptable layout, the venue posed both acoustic and coverage challenges, addressed through a compact PA design developed by NAS Solutions.
Produced by Woodward Productions, the show featured a six-piece band positioned offstage, along with multiple additional vocal sources, leaving only the actors and selected effects on stage. In this context, achieving consistent coverage without overpowering the performance required a precise system design approach within an intimate theatre environment.
Ben Murray, system engineer for the project from PQI AudioVisual, explained: “I wanted to create an almost cinematic experience. It wasn’t immersive in the surround sense, but rather about filling the space with sound that supports the acting and singing, avoiding any sense of disconnect between the PA and the performers.”
At the core of the system was dBTechnologies’ VIO Series. “It’s remarkable how such a compact footprint can deliver such clarity and impact,” said Murray. “We’ve been building our VIO inventory over the past seven years, and for productions where a low-profile PA is essential, it consistently delivers.”
Additional reinforcement included X206 loudspeakers used in delay for rear coverage, while X205 units handled side fill duties, supporting both effects and musical elements. Low-frequency reinforcement was provided by a pair of VIO L218 subwoofers positioned beneath retractable seating.
The main system was configured in L-C-R arrays, with five VIO L208 units per hang, set at maximum tilt to ensure coverage of the front seating areas without requiring additional front fill. “We considered adding a sixth unit per array, but it would have compromised sightlines. In the end, it wasn’t necessary, and the result was excellent,” Murray noted.
Reliability was another key factor. “When everything is working this well, the last thing you want is a failure disrupting the show. VIO is a system you can rely on, even in more demanding conditions,” he said. “It’s also a cost-effective solution. In this industry, budgets aren’t always unlimited, and the VIO Series offers a very strong performance-to-cost ratio.”
