Our History
Near the turn of the century Gustav was employed at Ambruster Scenic Studios in Columbus. After several years of training, the young man opened his own small scenic design studio at the Empire Theatre on East Gay Street in Columbus in 1904. All of the children grew up around the studio. The girls helped with sewing while the boys worked in the shop.
Gustav Schell Sr. was a charter member of IATSE Local 12. When he was not working in the studio, he was employed on various stages in Columbus as a stagehand. Herbert was a member of Local 12 and its business agent for 35 years. Gustav (Gus) Schell Jr. was a member of Local 12, as is his son, Philip. When the studio opened, its inventory was primarily backdrops, draperies, and advertising curtains. Today, the studio offers not only one of the midwest's largest inventories of scenic backdrops but also offers a complete selection of theatrical equipment. As technology changes, so does the studio's inventory.
The Schell Scenic Studio looks forward to carrying on the family tradition of offering fine quality products and service, established by our founder, to today's customers. |
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