Show Time for New Theatre Signage
Queens Theatre Hornchurch
Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch is a vibrant regional theatre with a rich heritage and over 200 thousand people enjoying the programme each year.
In 1975 the theatre moved from a converted cinema (which they had occupied since 1953) and opened the doors of their newly built 500 seat modern theatre constructed by the London Borough of Havering.
Time for a revamp
Some 44 years on, About Signs were contacted by the theatre’s Head of Facilities with regards to replacing the existing signage. The basic design of the new signs was to be kept the same which is in keeping with the 70’s style building. The existing extrance signage was replaced with hard wearing stainless steel built up lettering powder coated to the theatre’s signature orange colour. The lettering also incorporates LEDs for face illumination.
Form an orderly ‘Q’
As you can see from the photographs, the building includes a tower like structure which was already adorned by two large letter Qs. The theatre committee decided that to make the most of the high structure, new Qs would be produced, but this time there would be four of them, one for each elevation of the dominant tower.
Each Q measures an impressive 3m x 2m, so constructing and maneuvering the oversized letters within the workshop was no mean feat. The rim and return style letters were skilfully manufactured from steel and aluminium and followed the design of the entrance lettering with their illuminated faces and trademark orange colouring.
It was soon apparent that the really challenging part of the job would be the sign installation of the sizeable items. After months of planning, special lift equipment was installed on the roof of the theatre’s lofty tower so that the ‘Q’s could be lifted into place one by one.
The Star Role
Not everyone has a requirement for such sizeable signage, but what the theatre has done here is make the most of the structure and style of their building and it’s positioning by adding distinctive signage that is seen from all angles at a great distance. However big or small, your signage can easily be the focul point of your premises, making a positive and lasting first impression.