Théâtre Sévelin

Théâtre Sévelin Lausanne: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Théâtre Sévelin 36, located in the dynamic heart of Lausanne, Switzerland, is a premier venue dedicated to contemporary dance. Since its establishment in 1995 by acclaimed choreographer Philippe Saire, the theatre has played a pivotal role in nurturing artistic innovation and promoting cultural exchange, both locally and internationally. Renowned for its groundbreaking performances, inclusive community engagement, and commitment to accessibility, Théâtre Sévelin 36 is a must-visit destination for dance enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

This detailed guide offers all the essential information you need for your visit: opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, transportation, nearby attractions, and tips for making your experience memorable. For up-to-date schedules and bookings, please consult the official website (theatresevelin36.ch) and leading cultural platforms (leprogramme.ch).

History and Significance
Visiting Information
Programming & Events
- Major Festivals and Series
- Workshops and Community Initiatives
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Experience Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
Sources and Further Reading

History and Significance

Founded by Philippe Saire in 1995, Théâtre Sévelin 36 transformed from a home base for Saire’s own company into one of Switzerland’s most influential hubs for contemporary dance (archive.theatresevelin36.ch). The theatre quickly became a springboard for both Swiss and international artists, hosting pioneering festivals such as Les Printemps de Sévelin and the International Dance Festival of Lausanne. Its dedication to artistic experimentation and accessibility was recognized in 2013 when it received the Special Dance Award from the Swiss Federal Office of Culture (schweizerkulturpreise.ch).

Visiting Information

Location and Access

Address: Avenue de Sévelin 36, 1004 Lausanne, Switzerland
District: Flon, a vibrant area known for arts, nightlife, and culture

How to Get There:

By Metro: M1 line to “Vigie” or “Délices” (5-minute walk)
By Bus: Line TL n°18 to “EPSIC” (loisirs.ch)
By Car: Limited local parking; public transport is recommended due to the central location

Opening Hours

Box Office: Tuesday to Saturday, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (may extend on performance days)
Performance Days: Venue opens 30 minutes before showtime
Workshops/Special Events: Hours may vary; consult the event listing online

Tickets & Booking

Standard Ticket: CHF 25–30
Reduced Ticket: CHF 15–20 (students, seniors, etc.)
Pay-What-You-Can: Available for select performances
Group Discounts: For groups of 10 or more; advance arrangement recommended

How to Book:

Online via the official website
At the box office during opening hours
By phone or through authorized partners (leprogramme.ch)

Accessibility

The theatre is fully committed to inclusivity:

Wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms
Multilingual staff (primarily French, English, and German)
Assistance available upon request; it is advisable to contact the theatre in advance for specific needs

Programming & Events

Major Festivals and Series

Les Printemps de Sévelin

This annual spring festival is a highlight of Lausanne’s dance calendar, presenting innovative contemporary dance from Switzerland and abroad. The 2025 edition (March 5–23) includes:

Soa Ratsifandrihana | Carte Blanche et musique live: A journey into diasporic youth identity
FFF – Fampitaha, fampita, fampitàna: Exploring connections between diaspora children and their origins
Johanna Heusser | Dr Churz, dr Schlungg und dr Böös: Swiss wrestling as cultural metaphor
María del Mar Suárez / La Chachi | Taranto Aleatorio: A fresh take on flamenco traditions
Sarah Baltzinger & Isaiah Wilson | MEGASTRUCTURE: Dynamic negotiation of space and movement

Full program details: (leprogramme.ch)

Other Recurring Events

Fête de la Danse (May): City-wide celebration with performances and public workshops (lausanne-tourisme.ch)
Les Samedis de Sévelin: Twice-monthly intergenerational dance workshops and open stages (lausanne.ch)
Residency Showcases: Premieres and presentations by artists-in-residence

Workshops and Community Initiatives

Théâtre Sévelin 36 regularly offers workshops, masterclasses, and training sessions for all ages and skill levels, led by resident and visiting artists. These initiatives foster community engagement and cultivate new audiences for contemporary dance (timeout.com).

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your trip by visiting these popular sites:

Olympic Museum: Interactive exhibits on the Olympic movement
Collection de l’Art Brut: Celebrated museum of outsider art
Lausanne Cathedral: Iconic Gothic architecture in the old town
Plateforme 10: Art district with major museums
Les Docks & Arsenic: Neighboring venues for music and theatre (timeout.com)

Visitor Experience Tips

Arrive Early: Doors open 30 minutes before shows; early arrival ensures good seats and time to enjoy the lobby atmosphere.
Dress Code: Casual and relaxed; the venue is welcoming and inclusive.
Refreshments: Drinks and light snacks are available in the lobby; many dining options are nearby in the Flon district.
Language: Most performances are non-verbal or in French; staff can assist English-speaking visitors.
Photography: Not permitted during shows but encouraged in the lobby and public spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Box office is open Tuesday–Saturday, 2:00–6:00 PM. Venue opens 30 minutes before each performance.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Online, at the box office, or by phone. Advance booking is advised for festivals and popular events.

Q: Is the theatre accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating. Contact the theatre in advance for assistance.

Q: Are there English-language performances?
A: Most are non-verbal or in French; however, staff are multilingual and can assist.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Limited street parking nearby. Public transport is highly recommended.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, by arrangement. Contact the theatre or check the website for opportunities.

Plan Your Visit

Combine Visits: Make the most of your trip by exploring nearby museums, galleries, and historic sites.
Stay Informed: Subscribe to the theatre’s newsletter, follow on social media, or download the Audiala app for real-time updates.
Group Bookings: Available by arrangement for schools, organizations, and tour groups.
Weather: Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant. The theatre provides a cozy retreat year-round.