A new era, a new look
How do you make a new look for an iconic theatre? The Hannah has a decades-long legacy, a passionate community of supporters, and a fresh partnership with Wellington City Council. The theatre now launches a refreshed image made with care, collaboration, and a deep respect for everything that has come before.
The Hannah’s recent ‘glow up’, both physically and digitally, has been a meticulous, year-long process involving many hands and minds. Stewards of the building – past and present – alongside the Council’s Creative Capital team and a crew of creative freelancers have been guided by a collective vision for the future.
This comprehensive refresh includes a bold new visual identity, an engaging and vibrant digital presence, updated exterior signage, improved wayfinding throughout the interior, and subtle touches that breathe new life into the space while honouring its heritage.
A special acknowledgement goes to Isobel Mackinnon, former manager of The Hannah, whose leadership helped kickstart the creative journey. Her decision to collaborate with the extraordinary graphic designer Lily Paris West laid the foundation for the rebrand. Isobel, and later Interim Manager Sameena Zehra, brought not only insight and energy, but also an intimate understanding of the building and the cultural legacy it holds.
When Eleanor Strathern stepped into the role of General Manager in October 2024, she brought fresh momentum to the project. As a seasoned theatre practitioner with a fierce knowledge of the performing arts industry and local sector, she looked forward to the day when we would remove the disconnect between what went on within the walls of The Hannah, and what the public could see from the outside.
More than just a logo refresh, the process has been a deep dive into the identity of The Hannah: mapping brand assets, auditing touchpoints, reimagining audience engagement, and carefully planning each element of the rollout.
It’s been a labour of love, conjuring up ideas for how to utilise the striking Hannah blue, gathering photos and stories to capture just some of the rich history that is connected to this place, and deciding how to celebrate her big reveal!
From everyone who has played a part in this transformation, we hope you love the new look as much as we do. With some things old, a lot of new, a few things borrowed… and a whole lot of blue… The Hannah is lit up and ready to welcome you into her next era.