CO_LAB Theater Group, a New York-based nonprofit dedicated to providing individuals with developmental disabilities a creative and social outlet through theater arts, launches a new identity developed in collaboration with global branding agency Design Bridge and Partners. Anchored by the brand platform of “Everybody’s Stage”, the rebrand introduces a visual system that prioritizes accessibility, inclusivity, and creative expression.

“As theater makers, we know a thing or two about storytelling, but what Design Bridge and Partners has done is create a compelling platform for us to tell CO_LAB’s story on a whole new stage. For nonprofit organizations like ours, an authentic and energizing brand is vital to advancing our mission. This new brand direction is not only a joyful expression of CO_LAB’s identity, it is a powerful tool that will help us attract new support.”

— David E. Shane, Executive Director, CO_LAB

The new visual language spotlights the people and performances at the heart of CO_LAB’s mission through the use of an underscore, a flexible framework that expands and contracts to act as a stage, allowing CO_LAB’s performers to take center stage. As a trusted name within the New York City theater community, CO_LAB consults on accessibility and disability inclusion for Off-Broadway companies like New York City Center as well as commercial productions like the recent Broadway run of How To Dance In Ohio.

“CO_LAB has always been about creating a sense of belonging—our community deserves to see themselves in the arts. Every design decision was made to serve the needs of our community; more than just a new look, this identity helps CO_LAB grow, reach new audiences, and continue advocating for a more inclusive theater world.”

— Chris Pesto, founding member of CO_LAB and Client Business Director at Design Bridge and Partners

The new identity system is built around three key design principles, reflecting CO_LAB’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging in the arts:

• Accessibility-First: The branding incorporates ADA-compliant colors and National 2 typography, ensuring clarity and usability for all.
• Flexible and Functional: Designed for a small nonprofit team, the system is highly adaptable, allowing CO_LAB to scale its presence across fundraising, partnerships, and community engagement.
• A Stage for Expression: The underscore element acts as an expandable stage, allowing performers to take the spotlight while keeping the design unobtrusive.

“Great design isn’t always about making a statement—it’s about creating the right conditions for others to shine. With CO_LAB, we intentionally took a step back. The best thing we could do as designers was create a brand that gets out of the way and lets the work and the people speak for themselves.”

— Scott Lambert, Creative Director at Design Bridge and Partners

The project provided a unique opportunity for emerging talent; Design Bridge and Partners’ intern team led the early concept development before carrying the work through to completion, giving them hands-on experience in developing a nonprofit identity system from the ground up. “To be a college student and get the chance to work on a full-scale rebrand like this is something you won’t find anywhere else,” Pesto said. “Our interns played a major role in shaping the strategic foundation of the final product.”

“The arts should be a space where everyone feels seen,” Lambert adds. “This rebrand isn’t about aesthetics—it’s about creating a stronger, more inclusive theater world.”

Discover more in PRINT magazine.