Winter Classic field goes deep to give outdoor game Seattle flavor
The Winter Classic field in Seattle is transformed to reflect the city's unique identity, with a shipwreck and other authentic details. The players are amazed by the spectacle and the attention to detail. The NHL worked closely with Hotopp Creative Studio and the Seattle Shakespeare Company to bring the vision to life.
Creating the Scene
The Winter Classic field in Seattle has been meticulously designed to reflect the city's rich maritime history and unique character. The set was crafted by Seattle-based Hotopp Creative Studio and the Seattle Shakespeare Company, giving the game a theatrical production feel.
The centerpiece of the field is a shipwreck, created to showcase the power of the Kraken. The ship sinks in center field, its destruction caused by the tentacles of the Kraken. Other thoughtful details, such as piers, docks, and ropes, complete the scene and add to the authenticity of the setting.
Gary Wichansky, CEO and head of creative at Hotopp, went to great lengths to find the perfect finishing touches. He purchased a fishing net from a local marine supply store to hang over the Kraken's red eye in center field. The attention to detail and commitment to capturing the essence of Seattle is evident throughout the entire field design.
Astounding the Players
The players were awestruck when they first stepped onto the Winter Classic field. The transformation of T-Mobile Park, home stadium of the Seattle Mariners, is truly remarkable. They couldn't help but comment on the incredible work that went into creating the immersive experience.
"We kind of were just looking around, and we were like, 'Oh, my goodness, this is crazy right now,'" said Kraken forward Kailer Yamamoto. "It's awesome what they've done here."
The NHL takes pride in tailoring each outdoor game to the market, and the Winter Classic in Seattle is no exception. The field design captures the essence of the city and ensures that the audience immediately recognizes where the event is taking place.
The Creative Process
Months of planning and collaboration went into creating the Winter Classic field. The NHL, along with Hotopp Creative Studio, developed the primary logo and identity system for the event, drawing inspiration from the ominous and mysterious Kraken and the rich culture of the Pacific Northwest.
Hotopp, based in Seattle and experienced in NHL event design, brought the concept to life. The company utilized its expertise in theatrical set design and partnered with the Seattle Shakespeare Company to execute the vision. The result is a visually stunning and dynamic field that captivates both players and spectators alike.
The shipwreck in center field is a major highlight of the design. Standing at 60 feet and featuring towering masts that double as lighting trusses, the shipwreck adds an element of grandeur to the spectacle. The players are in awe of the attention to detail and the extent of the work that went into creating such a unique setup.
