Winter Classic field goes deep to give outdoor game Seattle flavor
The Seattle Kraken and Vegas Golden Knights will play in front of a shipwreck and boat house during the Winter Classic.
Seattle-based Creative Studio and Shakespeare Company Craft Theatrical Set
The Winter Classic field in Seattle will feature a theatrical set crafted by Seattle-based Hotopp Creative Studio and the Seattle Shakespeare Company. The stage will be set with a shipwreck, piers, docks, boats, buoys, ropes, and nets, all meant to capture the authentic Seattle atmosphere.
The CEO and head of creative at Hotopp, Gary Wichansky, even went as far as buying a fishing net to hang over the Kraken's red-eye in center field. The attention to detail in the set design showcases the dedication put into creating a true Seattle experience for the Winter Classic.
Unique Field Design Tailored to the Market
The Winter Classic is the 39th NHL outdoor game, and each event is made unique by tailoring the field design to the market. The primary logo and visual elements of the brand are developed months ahead of time to reflect the location of the event. For the Seattle Kraken, the logo takes inspiration from the ominous and mysterious nature of the Kraken itself, as well as the rich tableau of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
The NHL reached out to Hotopp, a Seattle-based company that had previously worked with the Kraken, to create the set design for the Winter Classic. The set pieces were conceptualized based on the assets provided and the vision for the event, resulting in an immersive and captivating environment.
A Theatrical Set of Epic Proportions
The set design for the Winter Classic at T-Mobile Park took advantage of the empty space in the baseball stadium to incorporate larger elements than usual. In left field, a boat house set disguised as a TNT set was constructed. In center field, a shipwreck stands tall, with masts doubling as lighting trusses. The shipwreck also serves as a stage for performances, including a set by Seattle's Heart during the first intermission.
The attention to detail is apparent throughout the set, with piers made of printed fabric and real wood, moorings made of real wood and rope, and authentic boats, buoys, and ropes. The intricate construction and dynamic design create a visually stunning and immersive experience for players and fans alike.
