Over 150 guests joined in celebrating Schuler Shook’s 20th anniversary at the theatre planning and lighting design firm’s Chicago office on May 11.

Every aspect of both the theatre and architectural lighting design worlds was represented in the happy crowd as guests traveled from across town and across the country to enjoy the festivities.

American baritone and friend of Duane Schuler, Robert Orth, surprised Duane and delighted the crowd with song. Dennis Zacek, artistic director of Victory Gardens Theater, gave a humorous and touching tribute to Bob Shook’s ongoing contributions in the realms of theatre and lighting.

“This party is so comfortable and fun,” said one partygoer. “It’s a lot like Schuler Shook themselves.”

Bob Shook thanked the gathered throng, saying, “We are here because of you. I’m so pleased that we can gather as friends and colleagues. We genuinely love what we do, and doing that work with friends like you makes it even better.”

From the congratulatory notes written by guests on a banner at the party to comments overheard as the night progressed, the good feelings were mutual.

Founding partner Duane Schuler arrived from Dresden, Germany, where he designed the lighting for the opera Dead Man Walking, to celebrate the milestone. Michael DiBlasi, partner in charge of the firm’s Minneapolis office, and Todd Hensley, partner in charge of theatre planning in the Chicago office, were also in attendance, and the company’s Dallas office was represented by Jack Hagler, principal.