Pentagram

Shakespeare in the Park 2021

Brand Identity

Promotional campaign for the 2021 festival of free performances presented by The Public Theater in Central Park.

Welcome back, New York—the Public Theater is ready to make MERRY!

Shakespeare in the Park, the annual free performances presented by the Public at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, returns in 2021 with Merry Wives, a new adaptation of Shakespeare’s Merry Wives of Windsor by Jocelyn Bioh. The production continues the 59-year tradition that was interrupted for the first time ever in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

This is Pentagram’s 26th season designing for Shakespeare in the Park (not counting last year’s unfinished campaign, which was eventually adapted for the Public’s 2020-2021 season identity) and the first to be seen fully animated on the digital kiosks in the streets of NYC. Each year, the season design changes in the use and spirit of Knockout, the official typeface of the Public identity. The Merry graphics feature a playfully redrawn version of the font with occasional skinny arms and legs.

Previously: The Public Theater 2020-2021 Season, Shakespeare in the Park 2019, Shakespeare in the Park 2018, Shakespeare in the Park 2017, Shakespeare in the Park 2016, Shakespeare in the Park 2015, Shakespeare in the Park 2014, Shakespeare in the Park 2013, Shakespeare in the Park 2012, Shakespeare in the Park 2011, Shakespeare in the Park 2010.

Office
New York
Partner
Paula Scher
Project team
Kirstin Huber
Jack Roizental
Tam Shell, The Public Theater
Gina Roi, The Public Theater
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