Laser Shows Melbourne: South East Melbourne Phoenix Christmas Spectacular
Genius Laser Technology returned to John Cain Arena on 20 December 2025 to deliver a high-impact half-time laser show for the South East Melbourne Phoenix Christmas Spectacular: Under the Stars.
Presented as part of the Phoenix’s annual Christmas celebration, the NBL fixture brought together basketball, music and live entertainment beneath the open roof of John Cain Arena. When the players left the court at half-time, the venue was transformed by lasers, creating a memorable centrepiece for the evening’s entertainment.
We were proud to work with CMS Australia on the production for the second consecutive year, building on the previous show and taking the laser experience even further for the Phoenix crowd.
A laser show created for live sport
A half-time production has only a short window in which to capture the audience. The show needs to begin immediately, complement the atmosphere of the game and deliver its full visual impact before play resumes.
For the South East Melbourne Phoenix Christmas Spectacular, the laser show was designed around the scale and energy of a live NBL event. Laser effects extended above the court and through the arena, giving spectators around the venue a different perspective on the performance.
Combined with the music, production lighting and energy of the crowd, the lasers transformed the break in play into an entertainment experience of its own.
Bringing the arena to life
John Cain Arena provided an impressive environment for the show. With the roof open for the Christmas Spectacular, the production brought together the intensity of an indoor sporting event with the atmosphere of an open-air occasion.
The height and scale of the venue allowed the laser effects to occupy the space above the court, extending the visual experience beyond a conventional stage or screen. From the lower seating through to the upper levels, the audience was surrounded by movement, colour and light.
Rather than simply adding another effect to the game-day presentation, the laser show made the arena itself part of the spectacle.
Designed for a precise half-time window
Producing laser shows for live sporting events requires careful coordination. The production must fit within the game-day schedule while working alongside venue management, audio, lighting and event personnel.
Every cue matters. Equipment needs to be positioned and tested before doors open, while programming must account for the venue layout, audience sightlines and the timing of the wider production.
Laser safety is also fundamental. Our experienced team includes qualified Laser Safety Officers, and every production is planned around controlled projection areas, appropriate positioning and the safety requirements of the venue.
This preparation allows the audience to enjoy a seamless performance while the technical work remains behind the scenes.
Working with CMS Australia and South East Melbourne Phoenix
Large live events are collaborative productions, and the Christmas Spectacular was no exception.
A huge thank you goes to CMS Australia for bringing Genius Laser Technology back for the second year running. Their continued trust gave us the opportunity to build on the previous production and deliver another memorable show for South East Melbourne Phoenix members, supporters and guests.
We also thank the Phoenix and John Cain Arena teams, along with everyone working across the event, for helping bring the Christmas Spectacular to life.
Why laser shows work for sporting events
Laser technology can transform a short break in play into a major entertainment moment without requiring an extensive physical set.
For sporting clubs, venues, sponsors and event producers, laser light shows can provide:
- Immediate visual impact within a short performance window
- Arena-wide effects visible from multiple seating areas
- Custom programming developed around music and event themes
- Integration with lighting, video and other production elements
- Opportunities to incorporate team or sponsor colours
- Memorable content for photography, video and social media
- Flexible production options for indoor arenas and outdoor stadiums
Laser shows can be used for player introductions, opening ceremonies, half-time entertainment, finals, championship celebrations and branded activations. Each production can be adapted to the venue, audience and creative direction of the event.
Delivering laser shows in Melbourne and across Australia
The South East Melbourne Phoenix Christmas Spectacular demonstrates how laser shows can enhance live sport and create an experience that extends beyond the game itself.
Based in Melbourne, Genius Laser Technology delivers custom laser shows across Australia for sporting events, concerts, festivals, corporate productions and major public celebrations.
With more than 28 years of industry experience, our team provides complete production support, including creative development, equipment supply, programming, safety planning and on-site operation.
Explore more of our work in the Genius Laser Technology portfolio, or view highlights from the Phoenix Christmas Spectacular.
Planning a laser show for a sporting event?
Whether you are planning a half-time show, season launch, opening ceremony or stadium-scale production, Genius Laser Technology can create a laser experience tailored to your event.
Contact our production team to discuss your venue, creative direction and technical requirements.
