Electrical short in instument light circuit

I am now fully frustrated. Everything has been going so well.
Last night while driving, the instrument lights went out.
I also noticed that the rt. side lights were out (except head lights)
I replaced the fuse and it instantly blew. I have begun a deep search for a short but I have come up empty handed.
Is it possible or common for a failure of the dimmer to result in a short ? Has anyone else encountered this ?
I am really bummed out, as I cant drive the car at night now.

Any help would be appreciated,
Robert