Attracting an audience to your theater is an important part of keeping it running and filling seats. It’s not enough just to have great plays; you need patrons to attend them as well. One way that theaters can direct patrons where they need to go and make sure they arrive at the right time and in the right place is by creating effective directional signage and wayfinding signage. The first step in creating a successful theater, whether it’s on Broadway or off-off Broadway, is to ensure that your patrons are able to find their way into the seats!
Elements Used in Theater Wayfinding
The first step in creating an effective wayfinding system is to understand the elements that are used in theater wayfinding. It’s important to know what you’re trying to accomplish with your signage so you can design appropriately. Next, it’s necessary to know who your audience is. If the audience includes people who have some familiarity with the venue, then there will be less need for clarification signs and more need for directional signs. A good understanding of traffic patterns will help guide decision-making as well, such as which areas are most heavily trafficked or when entrances tend to be most crowded.
The Process of Creating a Directional Sign for a Theater
Creating a marquee sign for a theater is an important process that should not be taken lightly. The sign should be designed to be impressive, ooze pomp and circumstance, draw a crowd, and be larger than life. Often, the sign is a three dimensional structure bathed in the bright lights of Broadway. The process of creating such a sign can be daunting, but with careful planning and execution, the end result will be a beautiful and successful marquee sign.
Other Directional Signs for a Theater
There are many other types of directional signage that are essential for a theater. These include signs for the directors and crew, stage door, dressing rooms, stage right, stage left, lobby, seating, and house. Each of these signs help to ensure that the theater runs smoothly and that everyone knows where they need to be.
Contact us at Genesis Signs today for all your theater wayfinding and directional sign needs!
