mediation and lending

Espace SAPA - Lausanne

Espace SAPA at our Lausanne office is a multi-purpose space for outreach and mediation. A small, semi-permanent exhibition on a specific topic directly related to the archival holdings provides the framework for the space, which is brought to life through various activities. For example, during the Fête de la Danse, the Nuit des Musées or the Journées du Matrimoine. Discover activities such as the treasure hunt for all ages, or let the “Souffleurs de temps” tell you captivating stories. 

SAPA - virtual

In the spirit of the “living archive”, SAPA supports the idea that the history of the performing arts should not simply be preserved, but set in motion. SAPA particularly uses the virtual sphere to develop innovative formats. Open the archive’s treasure chests, listen to the “Souffleurs de temps”, or explore the broader context of Switzerland’s not-so-small dance history.

The old museum in the new archive – Bern

The beginnings of the predecessor institution, the “Swiss Theatre Collection”, were closely linked to the exhibition sector. Although SAPA now pursues different aims, the permanent exhibition at the Bern site, unchanged since 1985, is well worth a visit. On the one hand for its content: it offers a comprehensive overview of theatre history, from ancient theatre via Shakespeare’s stages to the 20th century, with a focus on Swiss theatre history. On the other hand, the exhibition stands as a witness to stage and museum technology of the 1980s. The exhibition is open once a month and includes a guided tour.

Image: Exhibition object on the subject of paper theater, SAPA Foundation

Reproduction

SAPA makes its archival holdings available for use by third parties, provided there are no legal impediments. If reproductions are not already available at SAPA, you are welcome to order them from us. The procedure is discussed on a case-by-case basis, and services are invoiced according to the work involved. Determining usage rights is, in all cases, the responsibility of the users. 

Lending

Would you like to enrich your exhibition with a stage model, a drawing, or other documents from our holdings? We are happy to make our treasures available to recognised museums for a limited period. Please contact us to enquire about our conditions. Loans are free of charge; processing fees may apply depending on the effort required.  

Image: Exhibition catalog Memory Movers, Neues Museum Nuremberg, 2024

‍Yourresearch

.... begins with a consultation of our research tools. Alternatively, send us your enquiry by email – we will reply within a few days. Where possible, we will provide you with additional scans or prepare materials for your in-person visit.

We also welcome spontaneous visits and are happy to provide general information, including by telephone. For more in-depth questions, however, we recommend proceeding as described above. 

Curious for a look behind the scenes?

Are you planning a company outing or a visit as part of a course? Are you an expert interested in professional exchange, an enthusiastic amateur actor, or simply curious?

Whatever your age group or interests, we will gladly organise a tailored visit. We look forward to hearing from you. See you soon!

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Image: Excerpt from stage design, Eugen Hartung, author: Verdi, Giuseppe, title: " Rigoletto. Melodrama in 3 acts", 1925, Stadttheater Zürich, © Stiftung SAPA