Published On:Wednesday, November 18, 2009

By CHESTER ROBARDS

Business Reporter

crobards@tribunemedia.net

CLUB LUNA will be the latest in New Providence nightlife after the $10 million project, which sits on the previous site of the Zoo nightclub, opens next month, its marketing manager said yesterday.

Megan Sweeting, of Solé Marketing, said the almost 40,000 square foot club will be the latest in night life, reminiscent of New York and Los Angeles nightclubs.

With two major clubs attached to the complex, a grand courtyard anchored on one end by a more than 20-foot waterfall feature, and three acres of the seven-acre property dedicated solely to Luna's structure and parking, it will be the largest nightlife complex in Nassau.

Owner of Luna, Al Collie, said that when the complex is fully complete and operational it could employ up to 100 individuals, including bar personnel and security guards.

Ms Sweeting said the mixed-use facility was designed to host parties and concerts on a large scale, and with two huge balconies replete with bars bordering what will be named Providence Court, the open air courtyard will be the site of the grand opening party for Club Luna.

She said the southernmost club on the complex will be named the Island Club, and will host a different Bahamian band every week. It will not be open until February 2010.

On the northern end of the property, Club Luna is being prepared for its grand opening. Lighting is being inserted into the dance floor and bar, while atmospheric lighting and the sound systems have yet to be installed.

Mr Collie's first nightclub, The Zoo, burned to the ground in 2005 while an expansion of the exterior of the property was in progress. According to him, the building was uninsured at the time of the fire. Back then, the Zoo was the preeminent nightclub in Nassau and, according to Ms Sweeting, Club Luna is poised to replace it.

Despite a bad economy, Mr Collie said Commonwealth Bank helped to keep his project moving forward.

Like The Zoo, but with contemporary flair, Club Luna is expected to host international DJs and performances from across the world, and host Bahamian functions at any of its six bars.

Ms Sweeting said sky boxes make the complex ideal for performances, and exclusive VIP lounges create an intimate and secure setting for patrons of Luna. There is also expected to be a dedicated Graycliff Cigar roller churning out cigars on site.

She said the complex will cater to a young professional market, while focusing on Bahamians who want to enjoy their own culture in a safe environment.

Ms Sweeting and Mr Collie emphasised the need to secure the complex, and said security was a top priority.

When the club opens next month, Ms Sweeting said she expects Bahamian and international acts to welcome Luna's first patrons, as well as dignitaries who will add protocol to the event.