Rebranding a Legacy in Motion

Philadelphia Ballet

  • Brand Identity for Philadelphia Ballet and its school, campaign work, (Multiple engagements over several years)

  • Designed visual identity for Pennsylvania Ballet’s rebrand to Philadelphia Ballet; crafted board-level presentations and brand system to support this strategic shift.

  • Karma Agency

    Tracy Thompson (Creative Direction, Copy)
    Danny Robinson (Copy)
    Julia Brumbaugh (Copy)
    Elaine Knox (Design)

  • 2020–2021

The Challenge

For nearly sixty years, Pennsylvania Ballet stood as a cornerstone of the national ballet scene. But its name no longer matched the dynamic artistic identity or deep roots it had cultivated in Philadelphia. As the company prepared to return to live performances, it needed more than a surface rebrand. It needed to reconnect with diverse communities and embrace a new chapter.

The Insight

Its greatest strength lay at the intersection of world-class ballet and local pride. The brand needed to honor its legacy while opening the door to greater innovation, inclusivity, and connection.

The Approach

We renamed it Philadelphia Ballet and crafted a brand system that balanced strength with elegance. With a logo that leaned into contemporary form and nuanced negative space, every element was designed to reflect the grace, discipline, and civic spirit that define the company.

The Impact

The rebrand was celebrated as a timely evolution by The Philadelphia Inquirer, Dance Magazine, and WHYY — deepening ties to the city, broadening audiences, and positioning Philadelphia Ballet for a vibrant, inclusive future.

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