Beth Morrison Projects

Beth Morrison Projects (BMP) is one of the foremost creators and producers of new opera-theatre and music theatre. Operating across the US and internationally, with offices in Brooklyn and Los Angeles, BMP’s unique model offers support, guidance, and freedom to experiment, allowing them to create singularly innovative and impactful projects. Since forming in 2006, the company has commissioned, developed, produced and toured over 50 works in 14 countries around the world, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning chamber operas Angel’s Bone and Prism

BMP wanted a thrilling redesign that mirrors the edgy spirit of their groundbreaking productions. I designed them a website to echo the pulsating energy of New York (the city that never sleeps), where the unexpected is the only constant, and creativity knows no bounds. The purpose of the platform is not just a window to their shows but an interactive space that invites you to explore, engage, and become a part of the narrative – from seamless ticket bookings to exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

The design amplifies a colourful, bold and punchy brand voice. The hot pink highlight, which one might expect to see aligned more closely with the pop genre aims to appeal to a younger audience who might not be familiar with Opera Theatre or could even feel intimidated by it.

The striking large images teamed with bold font aims to take you on a virtual expedition, where the theatre lights meet gritty authenticity and a commitment to pushing boundaries. The redesigned website is a testament to BMP’s dedication to delivering an unparalleled experience, whether you’re a seasoned theatre enthusiast or a first-time visitor.

The design incorporates two typepaces. Headers employ Barlow – a slightly rounded, low-contrast, grotesk type family. Its clean lines, balanced proportions, and straightforward design make it a versatile choice for both digital and print projects.

Open Sans, which is optimised for print, web, and mobile interfaces, has excellent legibility characteristics in its letterforms and possesses a neutral, yet friendly appearance.

The editorial style layout takes it’s cues from print publications, and uses this as part of the brand. The dynamic layouts place stories and artistry at the heart of their communications which is a strategic move towards humanising and connecting. Being highly content-led first, this delineates and provides range.

While much of the work is dynamic, the layouts utilises an underlying grid-system which was carefully systematised for two reasons; 1) in order for it to deploy consistently and 2) to leave enough room for new and different communicative opportunities whilst easily allowing site admins to curate content and deploy it.