Richard “Nook” Schoenfeld, noted Lighting Designer, Writer, and Editor Emeritus of PLSN, died Dec. 14, 2022 at age 65. In addition to his writing, editing, and designing, Nook joined the board of directors of the Parnelli Awards, where he created the NextGen category to highlight the work of up-and-coming people in the business. His career was marked by his generosity and mentoring. He always looked to shine the spotlight on people newer to the industry, helping their career take off. As a result, Nook’s true impact on the entertainment lighting field was not limited to his own accomplishments but can also be seen today in the work of the many designers he influenced and nurtured in their careers.
Nook started every job with a smile, ended every gig with a laugh and in-between worked hard at being excellent at his craft, while always having fun doing it. His wife, Mary Lou offers that to honor him, “be more like Nook. Teach others and share your knowledge, support each other. In the end, just be nice.”
