SAPA Foundation

Nestled along the Limmatstrasse, the SAPA Foundation might appear unassuming. But within its walls resides a vibrant legacy. The Swiss Archive of the Performing Arts, or SAPA Foundation as it’s better known, is far more than just a repository. It’s a living testament to Switzerland’s dynamic contributions to dance, theater, and performance art. The SAPA Foundation doesn’t merely store artifacts. It collects, documents, archives, and actively promotes works produced in Switzerland, related to Switzerland, or significant for Switzerland. It is the “Helvetica of the Performing Arts”. The SAPA Foundation in Zurich is one of three locations, alongside Bern and Lausanne. This network allows the foundation to comprehensively capture Switzerland’s diverse performing arts scene. In 2017, the SAPA Foundation was born from a fusion. The Swiss Dance Archive and the Swiss Theatre Collection combined their rich histories and extensive collections. This union created a more robust and comprehensive archive. The Zurich branch, located at Limmatstrasse 265, plays a vital role in this preservation effort. The Swiss Theatre Collection, one of SAPA’s predecessors, has a fascinating origin story. It began with the Swiss Society for Theatre Culture (SGTK) in 1927. Initially, the SGTK focused on accumulating theater literature, visual materials, and even theater building models. The seeds of SAPA’s current mission were sown even then. The desire to preserve and share these artistic treasures has been a driving force for nearly a century. The story takes another turn in Lausanne in 1993. Dance researcher and journalist Jean Pierre Pastori recognized the need to preserve the rich choreographic traditions of the Lake Geneva region. The iconic costume of Flore Revalles, star of the Ballets Russes, became a prized possession of the Archives Suisses de la Danse, further solidifying the importance of preserving these tangible pieces of history. The SAPA Foundation’s team, led by Director Beate Schlichenmaier, spans all three locations. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to ensure the preservation and accessibility of Switzerland’s performing arts heritage. So, next time you stroll down Limmatstrasse, take a moment to appreciate the SAPA Foundation. Behind its facade lies a treasure trove of Swiss artistic expression. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.