The magic of early cinema and filmmaking was captured in Yellow Studio’s sculptural stage set for the 77th British Academy Film Awards in London. A fan-like, 8-meter-high sculpture formed of 12 golden frames served as an arresting focal point on our stage for the 2024 BAFTAs. The frames, each shaped in the profile of the iconic BAFTA mask, were arranged in a semi-circle at the back of The Royal Festival Hall's elliptical stage, backdropped by sheer drapes and elegant vertical fins of light.

This understated but impactful design was informed by the zoetrope, an early drum-shaped animation device that creates the illusion of motion using a spinning sequence of pictures. Our sculpture not only honored the history of motion pictures but also celebrated the fundamental features of filmmaking – time progression, movement, lighting, and the art of illusion – that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Inspired by the grandeur of the British Academy Film Awards and film history, our set design endeavored to capture the essence of celebration and recognition across a diverse spectrum of films.

We were tasked with appealing to a broad audience that spans various genres and age-groups. We were also tasked with using the iconic BAFTA mask in a subtle way. We landed on the carousel design, which served as an entrance piece and hero backdrop for key show moments. These silhouettes, crafted locally in London from wood and adorned with a metallic gold finish, exude an aura of prestige, further accentuated by the inset LED lighting channel. Historically, the silhouette has held a revered position within the BAFTA design framework, commanding attention and serving as a defining element of the stage aesthetic.

As our creative direction evolved, we were entrusted with the challenge of reimagining its role in a more nuanced and inventive manner. Embracing this opportunity, we embarked on a journey to explore alternative approaches that would retain the essence of the silhouette while infusing it with a fresh perspective. Ultimately we landed on a more subtle way to integrate the silhouette into the overall design narrative, while still tying it back to the meaning and history of film.

The extremely tight timeline for load-in and rehearsals (24 hours) necessitated precision and efficiency in our planning and execution. Despite operating within the constraints of a modest budget, our commitment to elegance remained unwavering. Ensuring ADA accessibility was paramount, reflecting our dedication to inclusivity and equal opportunity for all attendees. To optimize resources, the majority of our set components were rented, allowing us to maximize the impact of our budget. Our hero silhouette BAFTA masks’ versatility extends beyond this event, as they are reserved for future use at the prestigious BAFTA TV awards, underscoring our commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness in the entertainment industry.