Octagon Theatre Rebrand.
It’s over 50 years since Octagon Theatre first opened its doors. In that time they have remained a proud home for the people of Bolton and a symbol of the culture and ambition of the town. A new brand identity was the next stage in reopening a reimagined theatre in the heart of Bolton.
Down to earth yet extraordinary.
The visual brand had been iterated upon throughout the years. Now, as the theatre was being re-developed, there was no better time to create a brand identity that truly reflected the values of the down-to-earth-yet-extraordinary, Octagon. A welcoming, engaging, inclusive, place of seriously entertaining theatre – where everyone’s story matters!
The logotype.
The logo is loosely derived from the shape of a theatre ticket, using a simplified shape, tilted at exactly 8 degrees. This visualisation easily lent itself to the application of the Theatre, Kitchen & Bar, Membership and Patrons sub-brand logos.
Visual language
The brand language was extended via a series of shapes in addition to the obvious octagon to evoke a sense of movement and positivity. This visual grammar also provided a framework for messaging and photography, to ensure consistency across digital, printed and internal signage communications.
Photography.
Octagon is committed to inclusivity and values everyone that takes part in their creativity. The brand photos are of real people from diverse backgrounds who are actually involved and engaged with the organisation; from youth theatre, to audience members, and even a head boy from the audience back when the theatre first opened its doors!
Flexible poster framework
The show poster framework was designed to allow for flexibility and creativity when married with the artwork whilst remaining on-brand and recognisable as an Octagon production. One of the key features of the framework is the focus on show-specific creative typography.
Each poster is finished off with a proud stamp of quality; ‘Made in Bolton’ to connect with local audiences and highlight the roots of the Octagon Theatre.
