Grand Stage and Chicago Spotlight to Combine Operations

	Greg Becker and Marty Lazarus

Chicago Spotlight, Inc. and Grand Stage Lighting Co. Inc. have agreed to merge their operations effective immediately.

The combined company known as Grand Stage Company will be divided into three divisions. Grand Stage will continue as the corporate identity and be responsible for all sales, systems integration, and marketing efforts. Chicago Spotlight will provide customers with full service rental and production services, and Art Drapery Studios will continue to provide quality theatrical draperies and stage rigging installations.

The board of directors has appointed Gregory Becker as president and Marty Lazarus as vice president. Grand Stage Company will offer an expanded range of products to both existing customer bases along with a new online store, what the company calls unparalleled customer support and technical services.

Says Lazarus, "The opportunities of merging these two historical companies allows us to build upon the proven strengths of each, while growing and improving the customer experience. All staff individuals from both companies will remain as we begin this exciting next chapter in our company's history."

Starting this Thursday, August 13, and running through Saturday, August 15, Grand Stage hosts its moving sale entitled the "Grand-est Garage Sale ever!"

Starting on Monday, August 17, all rental operations for both companies will move to the 1658 W Carroll, Chicago, Illinois 60612, address and a new sales specific storefront will be opening at 1319 W. Grand Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60642. Beginning in early fall, their combined operations will be located in an expanded warehouse at 3418 N. Knox Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60641.

Additionally, a new online store currently in its beta form, can be found at store.grandstage.com. The consolidated company says it will have the largest Chicago-based selection of in-stock consumable products from such brands as Altman Lighting, Apollo Design Technology, City Theatrical, Chauvet Professional, Elation Professional, ETC, Philips Entertainment Lighting, and Rosco Laboratories.