The 7th edition of our newspaper is here!

Dear visitors to Gessnerallee, dear artists

Our latest newspaper edition explores, among other things, the theatre’s ability to uncover hidden layers. In the recurring feature ‘A Thought on Theatre’ (only in German), philosopher and author Amani Abuzahra describes how experiences become inscribed in postures, gazes and reflexes, how her everyday smile became a learned defence mechanism, and how theatre can make these visible and break them down. Read the article (only in German)

These layers are also at the heart of the conversation (only in German) between journalist Suban Biixi and Fatima Moumouni and Zainab J Lascandri. The artists talk about growing up as Black children, about loneliness and racism, and about the paradox of being seen in the wrong place and yet not being seen at the same time. Read the article (only in German)

Theatre is also capable of countering the loud and fast-paced present with slowness, nuances, polyphony and a shared engagement. Dramaturg Noa Winter offers an insight into the programme focus ‘Communities of Hope’ (9–18 April), which links hope, the future and the present. Read the article (only in German)

This is also the case with Hadija Haruna-Oelker, a journalist and Black mother of a disabled child, who has been working for years on the question of how coexistence amidst difference is possible. In her portrait (only in German), author Marah Rikli shows that Haruna-Oelker’s work is less an indictment than an invitation to conceive of dignity unconditionally and to renegotiate community. Experience Hadija Haruna-Oelker live at the Gessnerallee on 16 April. Read the article (only in German)

After a deliberate break, Anouchka Gwen returns to the stage as a solo artist with a newfound sense of self. In the interview (only in German), the musician describes vulnerability not as a weakness: art can open up a space that feels like an embrace. Come to Anouchka Gwen’s concert on 11 April at the Gessnerallee. Read the article (only in German)

In this interview (only in German), the acclaimed Brazilian author and director Carolina Bianchi reflects on her international breakthrough with ‘The Bride and The Goodnight Cinderella’, her career and her artistic practice. Read the article (only in German)

The special feature uses two articles by Mani Owzar to show how we can work towards a hopeful, fairer future in everyday school life. Seemingly neutral terms and routines are scrutinised. And the impact of implementing gender-equitable and discrimination-sensitive education is highlighted.

Once again, you’ll find our regular features: Photographer Hannah Gottschalk visits rehearsals for ‘PERCEPTIONS’ by choreographer Anna Chiedza Spörri.

Artist and musician Rada Leu draws a comic based on the performance ‘Wen Keng We Meet? – On Connection’. In the fashion column, artist Lovis Heuss presents comfortable, colourful and genderqueer fashion.

And cabaret artist and author Lisa Christ shows us the future as a user’s guide for everyday life and the soul, conceived from the perspective of the wardrobe.

The print editions of our newspaper, produced with great care and attention, can be ordered individually or by subscription (four issues per year).

Now for the weekly overview of programme highlights.

Programme

‘Until They Hear Black Voices’, Fazil On Yu

26, 27 and 28 March

At OPEN STUDIO, artists are collaborating with Dimitri de Perrot to explore productions where sound is the central creative medium. At the heart of Fazil On Yu’s work lies listening: experiences of exclusion, invisibility and the search for orientation in a space that often offers him no echo. With ‘Until They Hear Black Voices’, On Yu is developing a sound-narrative performance that gives voice to the stories of Black people in Switzerland and Europe – a narrative of complex struggles, loss and identity. The events are currently sold out. If you do not yet have tickets, we recommend checking the website regularly over the next few days, as additional tickets are likely to become available.

‘The New Uncertainty – Disco Edition’ , Fatima Moumouni with David Zabel (followed by a karaoke party)

Friday, 27 March, 8 pm

Artist Fatima Moumouni continues her series of talks, «The New Uncertainty – Disco Edition». In this series, moments of conversation – which are allowed to be reflective, self-critical and decidedly insecure – are brought to the stage; guests and the host are equally unsettled. And then everyone reflects together in public. The current edition focuses on the topics “Loving white people” and “Talking to the Right”. And after the discussion, there will be comedy and karaoke. Tickets

‘CADELA FORÇA TRILOGY – Chapter I: The Bride and The Goodnight Cinderella’ by Carolina Bianchi Y Cara de Cavalo

Sunday, 29 March, 6 pm

A poetic evening delving into the human abyss, exploring the brutal violence against women resulting from knockout drops. In its vulnerability and immense power, this play by Brazilian director Carolina Bianchi is a radical reflection on violence against women, art and death. The internationally acclaimed production is finally coming to Zurich. Read the interview with Carolina Bianchi (only in German) now and secure your tickets!

We look forward to seeing you there.

The Gessnerallee team