Discussion Series
From 17. September 2026 until 20. June 2027
Under the title “Zurich Talks Dance”, the Ballett Zürich, the Zurich University of the Arts, the Tanz Akademie Zürich and the Tanzhaus Zürich joined forces in 2023 to offer all interested parties deeper insights into artistic, professional and also educational topics in the ballet world. Through various events, the audience gains more knowledge about the lives and work of dancers, choreographers, ballet teachers and numerous creatives in the dance world, and can get to know renowned dance professionals. With this, we aim to present the work of Ballett Zürich in a broader context and engage in dialogue with other dance professionals and dance enthusiasts. The conversations are hosted by dramaturge Michael Küster and representatives of the partner institutions.
"Zurich Talks Dance" – 28 April 2026
"When music becomes movement" is the theme of the next edition of "Zurich Talks Dance", taking place on Tuesday, 28 April 2026 at 19:00 at the Toni-Areal. Michael Küster and Jason Beechey will speak with their guests about the relationship between music and choreography.
Zurich Ballet director Cathy Marston is currently choreographing "Romeo and Juliet" for Zurich Ballet. She shares her experiences as a choreographer working with Sergei Prokofiev’s vast ballet score. In addition, a pas de deux from the new choreography will be presented – just four weeks before the premiere.
Christophe Barwinek speaks about his musical work with Zurich Ballet. He has been a répétiteur with the company for 30 years. With his artistic expertise, the pianist has become an indispensable advisor for many ballet productions. In accompanying the daily training sessions, he frequently crosses musical genre boundaries, demonstrating that almost any music can become "ballet music".
At ZHdK, students of the BA Contemporary Dance programme are currently working with Acacia Schachte on a piece by the renowned Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. At "Zurich Talks Dance", audiences will get a preview from "Fall", set to music by Arvo Pärt.
Cast
The cast for this performance will be announced at a later date.