The Flynn is proud to officially unveil a totally new and exciting brand that welcomes change and embraces openness. The new brand is designed to celebrate the theater’s world-class experience and positive impact on our community, while also reflecting a bold, modern, and aspirational outlook, in which the performing arts are accessible to all regardless of any and all barriers.
Over the past year, the Flynn has been working behind the scenes with its branding and design partner, Ruthless & Wellington (R+W)—a women-owned branding and design studio located in Burlington, Vermont that builds brands with purpose through a relentless pursuit of truth and beauty—to reimagine a brand experience that reflects the future of the Flynn. R+W led a statewide research and discovery process that gathered perspectives from over 1,700 Vermonters. This wide-ranging survey reaffirmed the beloved and foundational status of the Flynn within the region’s arts community. It also illuminated opportunities to simplify the way the Flynn is presented to the community—in both style and messaging—to be more accessible and inclusive.
Many of the things we all love about the Flynn were reaffirmed. We also discovered opportunities to redraw our standing and expand our reach. This concept and mission is informed by research, a deep commitment to our community, and our determination to acknowledge and amend the inequities of our past. As the Flynn celebrates its 90th year as a cultural landmark in the Burlington community amidst civil unrest and a global pandemic, the organization is even more resolved in its belief in the transformative power of the arts to unify, inspire, and heal.
The new Flynn brand is built around a clear and unshakeable promise: We strive to deliver transformative moments that are deeply personal and as varied as we are as human beings. Moments large and small, and everything in between, that can last a lifetime and spark indelible memories. Moments that unify us, broaden and challenge our beliefs, strengthen our bonds, and have the power to shape our future.
The letterforms of our historical marquee became the foundational starting place for the new logo.
We seek to remove barriers, break down stereotypes, and provide multiple ways to access and enjoy the Flynn. Our doors are open to all.
Through the energy and hope of creative expression, we seek to uplift and amplify the hearts, voices, and diverse perspectives of all who interact with the Flynn.
The last two letters break the boundary of the logo, representing the Flynn’s commitment to challenging the status quo and delivering moments of transformation.
The lines, points, and angles within our logo echo the energetic, radiating starbursts, zigzags, and geometric shapes of the Art Deco era—a prevalent theme throughout our historic theater.
Transformative moments are essential. They give us energy, courage and hope. From the classroom to the green room, from student matinees to show choir, in the audience and on the stage, THE FLYNN MAKES THESE MOMENTS POSSIBLE.
We’re more dedicated than ever to providing a joyful and memorable experience at every touch point—from our new website to reimagined programming like Hurly Burly. Look for more changes rolling out over the coming months!