Posted on May 1, 2006

Fans of Charles Steckler sign the guestbook at the exhibit's closing


“Charles Steckler: Stage Design – Retrospective Exhibition,” which enjoyed tremendous success since its Jan. 12 opening in the Nott Memorial's Mandeville Gallery, closed Sunday, April 30.


The Nott filled with Steckler admirers and the music of Dead Cat Bounce


More than 200 people attended the reception to wish farewell to Steckler's exhibit. They also celebrated his upcoming birthday.




The exhibit, “Charles Steckler: Stage Design” spanned the 35-year career of the well-known professor of theater and designer-in-residence. It featured some 40 of his stage designs as well as photographs, drawings, construction models and a range of compelling artifacts.


Charles Steckler (center) taking in all the guests at his exhibit's closing


Friends, family, former students and art lovers filled the Nott Memorial on a warm, spring day. They took one last look at his history of stage design and enjoyed some jazz, food and refreshments. Music was provided by Steckler's son Matt's band, Dead Cat Bounce. The award-winning band from Boston features four saxophones, upright bass and drums.


Dead Cat Bounce, jazz band play in the Nott


Rachel Seligman, director of the Mandeville Gallery said approximately 2,000 visitors viewed the exhibit.  She contributes the exhibit's success to Steckler himself. “He is well-known and beloved, as a faculty member at Union and in the community at large,” said Seligman.