Shafer Alliance Laboratory Theatre: Hamlet Poster

Spring 2022 | Graphic Design

The final design is dominated by a minimalistic silhouette of the actor playing Hamlet. The figure stands with a relaxed, regal hand on the hilt of a sword, almost as if in a royal portrait. A spotlight sheds light on the darker truths of the items around the famous prince: the goblet is full of poison, the sword tip is venomous, and Hamlet is contemplating death. These truths are highlighted in a shocking, bright white and allude to the tragic endings of the play.

The final color palette of the design is drawn from the scenic design of the show. It is monochromatic to further emphasize the minimalism and to make the bright white interest points stand out even more. The choice was made to go with green for the final version as it is the color in the palette that feels the most haunting and uneasy out of the palette.