The growing number of users of digital projectors in entertainment and events share a common problem: when the projector is projecting black, it is actually a dark gray that is obvious and distracting on a dark stage. The Projector Dowser, from City Theatrical, is an electromechanical device that sits next to or on top of a digital projector and swings a flag in front of the beam to change video black to a real blackout. It uses a stepper motor controlled by one channel of DMX to swing a flag through an arc of up to 90 degrees. The flag is adjustable on a rotating shaft to allow users to position the flag and the control box in a convenient location. The included mounting kit features a flat base with screw holes, rubber feet, Velcro, and an Allen key for mounting the flag and hub to the Dowser's shaft. It also features dry closure contacts to allow users to operate without DMX, either by toggle or momentary switch during a show, or while setting up before DMX is available at the projector.

The Projector Dowser is available through City Theatrical dealers worldwide, listed on the company's website, along with complete product information.

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Over 150 guests joined in celebrating Schuler Shook's 20th anniversary at the theatre planning and lighting design firm's Chicago office May 11, 2006. Many different aspects of the theatre and architectural lighting design worlds were represented in the crowd, with guests arriving from across town and across the country to enjoy the festivities.

American baritone and friend of Duane Schuler, Robert Orth, surprised Mr. Schuler 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.

Mr. Shook thanked those gathered. Congratulatory notes were written by guests on a banner. Founding partner Mr. Schuler arrived from Dresden, Germany 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, also attended and Jack Hagler, principal, represented the company's Dallas office.

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Vari-Lite announced hiring Rich Booth as brand manager for the complete line of Vari-Lite automated luminaires. With an extensive marketing background, Mr. Booth will manage all Vari-Lite Marketing and Brand Imaging campaigns. He joins Technical Marketing Manager Heinz Roy, Product Manager George Masek, and Public Relations Manager Bryan Matthews to complete the Vari-Lite Marketing team.

Prior to joining Vari-Lite, Mr. Booth was the marketing communications manager for Valere Power in Richardson, Texas. He also had a distinguished career with Fugasity Corporation, HQ Global Workplaces, and Span Instruments, Inc. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Texas at Dallas, and may be contacted at 214-647-7991, or rbooth@genlytecontrols.com.

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