mediation and lending

Espace SAPA - Lausanne

The Espace SAPA provides the Lausanne office with a multi-purpose space for communication. A small, semi-permanent exhibition on a specific theme directly related to the archive holdings forms the framework of the space, which is enlivened with various activities. For example, on the occasion of the Fête de la Danse, the Nuit des Musées or the Journées du Matrimoine. Discover activities such as the treasure hunt for young and old or let the "Souffleurs de temps" tell you exciting stories.

SAPA - virtual

In the spirit of the "Living Archive", SAPA supports the postulate that the history of the performing arts should not be preserved, but moved. SAPA uses the virtual realm in particular to develop innovative formats. Open the archive's treasure chests, let the "souffleurs de temps" tell their stories or explore the wider context of Swiss dance history.

The Archives and Their History - Bern

The oldest of the three branches is located in Bern. In 1927, the foundation stone was laid for the Swiss Theatre Collection, one of SAPA's predecessor institutions. What was collected in earlier times, how was it disseminated, and what do archiving and valorisation mean in the digital age? Various aspects can be highlighted, from the former permanent exhibition, which features, among other things, a model of the Tell Plays, to today's digitisation and processing methods. Always at the centre are the diverse collections, which, in their forms, colours, and content, resemble a glimpse into a treasure chamber over 100 years old.

In addition to public events, SAPA organizes individually tailored tours as needed.

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