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Obituaries

In Memoriam: Industry Trailblazer Richard Pilbrow, 90

Richard Pilbrow (1933-2023), passed away the evening of December 6, 2023. Pilbrow was a vital force in the theatre—a celebrated Broadway and West End lighting designer, a pathfinder in the theatrical consulting profession, and an innovator in countless other corners of the industry. He lived a life committed to expansive thinking and supporting others, co-founding multiple professional membership organizations and serving as mentor to consultants and designers across the globe. And his books on lighting and on his career in consultancy have become standard reads for fledgling creatives and industry professionals alike.

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In Memoriam: Richard “Dick” Wolpert, 97

Richard “Dick” Wolpert

Richard “Dick” Wolpert passed away peacefully August 20, 2023 at the age of 97. Dick was one of the last of the “old guard” members of the theatrical lighting industry. He was the heart and soul of Union Connector, growing it from a loft in Hell’s Kitchen to a 20,000 square foot factory on Long Island. His honesty and integrity were well known and acknowledged by customers and competitors, alike. Several became close friends. He could sell snow to Eskimos, but everything was always “above board” as he often said. His word was his bond. Read More »In Memoriam: Richard “Dick” Wolpert, 97

In Memoriam: Sarah Lynn Jakubasz, 42

Sarah Lynn Jakubasz, Lighting Director for ABC’s Good Morning America and GMA3: What You Need to Know, died July 22 of complications related to a Glioblastoma. Good Morning America aired a remembrance of Jakubasz five days later, on what would have been her 43rd birthday. During the segment, the show’s hosts paid tribute to Jakubasz, who joined the show in 2018.Read More »In Memoriam: Sarah Lynn Jakubasz, 42

In Memoriam: Chris McGregor, Production Designer & Creative Visionary, 61

Chris McGregor

Production Designer and President of San Francisco-based Stage II Productions, Chris McGregor died of a heart attack on Monday, July 31, 2023, at 61. McGregor is widely known for his creative work for Phish and The Residents as well as lighting and production design for numerous events. His passing was initially confirmed by The Residents, who he had worked with since 1989. McGregor earned a BFA degree from the California Institute of the Arts in 1984.Read More »In Memoriam: Chris McGregor, Production Designer & Creative Visionary, 61

In Memoriam: Shawn McKeown, 1972-2023

Educator and production professional Shawn McKeown passed away May 28, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was 50. At the time of his death, he was employed by Full Sail University as Program Manager – Show Production. McKeown worked for Full Sail for more than 20 years holding a variety of teaching positions, including Department Chair, and Course Director.

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