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Les Incontournables du Théâtre en Suisse Romande : October 2023 Events Guide

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Les Incontournables du Théâtre en Suisse Romande : October 2023 Events Guide

Introduction

October in French-speaking Switzerland is a month of cultural effervescence, a time when art and creativity flourish in a setting of autumn leaves. This month is particularly significant for the region, not only for its rich cultural heritage, but also for its diversity of artistic events. According to Suisse Tourisme,, Switzerland is a country with a rich living heritage, with a multitude of traditional events taking place throughout the year. In October, events such as the Biennale Son in Valais and KorSonoR in Geneva put the spotlight on the sound arts, as reported by rts.ch.

But why is October so special? It's a month when the barriers between different art forms seem to break down. Theater, music, visual arts and musicals merge into a cultural mosaic, offering a wide range of experiences for all tastes. What's more, the lifting of pandemic-related restrictions, as rts.ch. points out, has allowed major cultural events to resume, adding an extra dimension to the importance of this month.

So, whether you're a music lover, a theater enthusiast or simply curious about culture, October in French-speaking Switzerland is your month. Prepare to be amazed by the richness and diversity of the events that await you.

Theater in Geneva

Geneva, the cosmopolitan city on Lake Geneva, is a veritable epicenter of culture. With its many theaters and cultural fairs, the city offers a rich and varied scene, especially in October. This month, one show in particular catches the eye: Drag Race France - Season 2 in Geneva!

If you're a fan of the drag scene, or simply curious to discover this fascinating world, this show is for you. Held in the sumptuous setting of the Théâtre du Léman, this show promises an unforgettable evening. The second edition of this French drag competition comes to Switzerland, and the line-up is grander than ever.

Synopsis and Setting The show is a celebration of diversity and self-expression. The most talented drag queens from France and Switzerland come together for a colorful competition. The setting of the Théâtre du Léman adds a touch of elegance to this already spectacular event.

Venue, Prices and Ticketing The show takes place at the Théâtre du Léman, Quai du Mont-Blanc 19, 1201 Geneva. Ticket prices vary according to seat category, ranging from CHF 50 to CHF 100. Tickets are available on the Théâtre du Léman website.

The show lasts around two hours, but the fun doesn't stop there. After the show, spectators are invited to join the VIP lounge for a festive lunch with the artists.

Geneva continues to prove that it is a city where culture and diversity are celebrated. This show is a perfect example of how Geneva's theater scene is opening up to new forms of art and expression.

Practical information:

  • URL for show info: Théâtre du Léman
  • Theater address: Quai du Mont-Blanc 19, 1201 Geneva
    Admission: CHF 50-100
    Start time: Not specified

La Scène Fribourgeoise

Fribourg, the picturesque town nestled between Lausanne and Bern, is a cultural gem. The theater scene here is particularly dynamic, especially in October. A show that deserves particular attention this month is Presque Hamlet: Un écho de Shakespeare à Fribourg.

Presque Hamlet: An echo of Shakespeare in Fribourg
If you're a fan of revisited classics, this is the show for you. In the intimate setting of the Théâtre des Osses, this play offers a new perspective on Shakespeare's timeless work.

Synopsis and Setting The play is a modern adaptation of the famous drama "Hamlet". It explores the themes of betrayal, revenge and identity through a contemporary staging. The warm atmosphere of the Théâtre des Osses adds a unique dimension to this performance.

Venue, Prices and Ticketing The show takes place at the Théâtre des Osses, Route de l'Eglise 10, 1763 Granges-Paccot. Ticket prices range from CHF 30 to 60. For more information, visit the Théâtre des Osses. website.

Duration and Accompanying Music The show lasts approximately two and a half hours, with an intermission. The accompanying music, composed especially for this edition, adds an extra layer of emotion to the performance.

Practical information:

  • URL pour accéder aux infos du spectacle: Théâtre des Osses
  • Adresse du théâtre: Route de l'Eglise 10, 1763 Granges-Paccot
  • Prix de l'entrée: 30-60 CHF
  • Heure de début: Non spécifié

Le Salon Culturel de Vevey - Cravate Club

Vevey, a town on the shores of Lake Geneva, is a cultural salon in itself. Known for its image festival, the town is also open to other art forms, notably theater. In October, Théâtre Le Pantographe hosts a play that caught our attention: Cravate Club.

Cravate Club: A Modern and Absurd Comedy
If you're looking for a comedy that's out of the ordinary, "Cravate Club" is the show for you. Written by Fabrice Roger-Lacan and directed by Antony Mettler, this play explores the complexity of human relationships through the story of two friends and colleagues, Bernard and Adrien.

Synopsis and Setting The plot revolves around a monthly club dinner that one of the friends is unable to attend, creating a rift in their relationship. The play is a modern, almost absurdist comedy, set in the intimate surroundings of Théâtre Le Pantographe.

Location, Prices and Ticketing The show runs from October 3 to 15 at Théâtre Le Pantographe, Av. Reller 7, 1800 Vevey. Tickets are available on the Théâtre Le Pantographe website, and prices range from CHF 30 to 60.

Duration and ambience of the show The show lasts around 90 minutes. After the show, the theater transforms into a cultural salon where spectators can discuss and debate over a drink.

Practical information:

  • URL for show info: Théâtre Le Pantographe
  • Theater address: Av. Reller 7, 1800 Vevey - CH
  • Admission: CHF 30-60
  • Start times: Tuesday/Thursday at 8 pm, Saturday at 7 pm, Sunday at 5:30 pm

The Festival for Families in Morges - Festival Salamandre

If you're looking for a theatrical experience that stands out from the crowd this October, Morges is the destination not to be missed. The Salamandre Festival, from October 20 to 22, is the ultimate family event. Located not far from Lausanne, this festival is a true celebration of nature and biodiversity.

Festival Salamandre: A Migration-Focused Edition
This year's festival explores the fascinating theme of "Migrations". From garden to pond, from continent to continent, this festival invites you to marvel at the fabulous journeys of living creatures.

Program and Round Table The program is rich and varied, with films, exhibitions, conferences and shows for young and old. A round table will also be held to discuss the upheavals threatening migratory species.

Location and ticketing The event takes place in Morges, and for more information on ticketing, please visit the Beausobre. website.

Lunch and Foodtrucks For those wishing to take a lunch break, the festival offers a wide variety of foodtrucks where you can feast.

Evening events Don't miss the festival's two special evenings. Friday offers the premiere of Jean-Michel Bertrand's latest film, "Vivre avec les loups", and Saturday an evening of film and dance to celebrate the centenary of the Swiss Ornithological Institute.

Practical information:

  • URL for festival info Beausobre
  • Address: Morges, Suisse
  • Start time: Non spécifié

 

La Scène de Neuchâtel - "Giselle" by François Gremaud

Neuchâtel, a city that has always been a hotbed of cultural innovation, offers us a unique theatrical experience this month. François Gremaud, a well-known name in the world of theater, presents his latest creation, "Giselle", a daring reinterpretation of the classic Romantic ballet.

One Dancer, Many Characters
What makes this performance unique is the presence of a single dancer, Samantha van Wissen, who embodies all the characters in the drama. With a simple chair as her only prop, she captivates the audience in a danced lecture that explores the different facets of the ballet, bringing it a freshness never seen before.

Music and Emotion Music is a key element of this performance, adding a layer of emotion and depth to the performance. It serves as a backdrop to the dance and narrative, creating a spellbinding atmosphere.

Venue and ticketing The performance will take place at the Théâtre du Passage in Neuchâtel. For ticketing information, please visit Théâtre du Passage.

Round Table and Lunch Before the performance, a round table will be organized to discuss the themes addressed in the play. In addition, lunch options will be available on site for those wishing to take a break before the show.

Special Edition This special edition of "Giselle" is co-hosted with ADN - Danse Neuchâtel, making it a not-to-be-missed event for dance enthusiasts. 

Practical information:

  • URL : Théâtre du Passage
  • Adress: Théâtre du Passage, 4, passage Maximilien-de-Meuron, Neuchâtel, Suisse
  • Start times: 29 octobre 2023, 17h
  • Prices: 40 CHF, Reduced rate 30 CHF

Le Club Théâtral de Coppet - "Everything's going to be all right".

Coppet, a picturesque village near Geneva, is home to the Club Théâtral de Coppet. This club, nestled in a historic château, is a veritable institution in the Swiss cultural landscape. This month, it presents a performance that caught our attention: "Tout va bien se passer".

An adaptation of the novel of the same name
The staging of "Tout va bien se passer" is an adaptation of the novel of the same name. The story explores the complexities of family and social relationships through a series of unforeseen events that turn the lives of the protagonists upside down.

Music and atmosphere Music plays a crucial role in this performance, adding an emotional dimension to the story. The ambience of the theatrical club, with its sumptuous décor and rich history, adds a touch of elegance to the event.

Venue and ticketing The performance will take place at the Club Théâtral de Coppet. For more information on ticketing, please visit the Club Théâtral de Coppet. website.

Round Table and Lunch A round table will be organized before the performance to discuss the themes raised in the play. In addition, lunch options will be available on site for those wishing to take a break before the start.

Duration and Post-Event Party The performance lasts approximately two hours. After the performance, a small party will be organized to celebrate this special edition.

Practical information:

 

Children's Theatre in Monthey - GROU!

If you're looking for an event that will capture the attention of younger audiences while offering a rewarding cultural experience, look no further than Monthey's Théâtre du Crochetan. This iconic venue on the Swiss cultural scene hosts "GROU!", a production that promises to delight children and adults alike.

An event for the whole family
The Théâtre du Crochetan is much more than just a performance venue; it's a cultural salon where families can come together to share unforgettable moments. "GROU!" is a play that fits perfectly into this philosophy. It offers an interactive experience in which children are invited to participate, reflect and have fun.

Stage Direction and Music
The staging of "GROU!" is a feast for the senses. Colorful sets and lively music create a joyful, playful atmosphere. The length of the play is also designed with the youngest audience in mind, allowing the whole family to enjoy the event without attention waning.

An Art Club for children
The Théâtre du Crochetan doesn't just offer performances; it's also a club where children can learn about the performing arts. Workshops and round-table discussions are regularly organized, allowing youngsters to immerse themselves in the world of theater.

Practical information:

 

Le Déjeuner Théâtral à Porrentruy - Midi Théâtre - Parole Gourmande

If you're looking for a unique theatrical experience that combines the pleasures of the table and the stage, look no further than "Midi Théâtre - Parole Gourmande" in Porrentruy. This living art salon offers a lunchtime-theater formula that is simply irresistible.

A Unique Edition in October
This month, the "Midi Théâtre" offers a special edition that promises to be a real event. This year's theme is "Parole Gourmande", a celebration of gastronomy and the art of oratory. The venue, located in the heart of Porrentruy, offers an idyllic setting for a theatrical lunch.

Set-up and duration
This event is meticulously staged, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. The duration of the show is perfectly calibrated to allow spectators to enjoy both their meal and the performance.

A Living Art Club
The "Midi Théâtre" is more than just a performance space; it's a veritable living arts club. Music workshops and round-table discussions are regularly organized, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a variety of art forms.

Lunch at the Château
What really sets this event apart is the opportunity to have lunch in a historic château. The menu is carefully crafted to reflect the year's theme, offering a unique gastronomic and cultural experience.

Informations Pratiques

 

Conclusion

This month, French-speaking Switzerland is the scene of a veritable celebration of the performing arts. From Geneva to Porrentruy, via Lausanne and Monthey, each venue offers a unique experience, whether in an art salon, a theatrical club or even a historic castle. This month's special editions promise unforgettable events for all ages and tastes.

If you're a music lover, don't miss the music workshops that often accompany these performances. For those who like to combine art and gastronomy, the theatrical lunch options are a sublime way to spend a day. The duration of each event is carefully calibrated to offer a complete experience, from set-up to the last note played.

All in all, this month offers a panoply of experiences that celebrate the richness and diversity of the arts scene in French-speaking Switzerland. Whether you're looking for a family outing, a gastronomic experience or a romantic evening, there's something for everyone at this festive time of year.

So get ready to be amazed and discover the magic of live art in settings as varied as they are exceptional. It's the perfect time to dive into the world of creativity and expression, so don't miss out on these unique opportunities.