Don’t just like it, live it!

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

Adapted from Fabcaro’s comic, “Zaï zaï zaï zaï” is a live radio play that is both witty and sharp. It tells the story of a man who becomes public enemy number one after forgetting his loyalty card at the supermarket. This performance cleverly examines collective behavior, security overreach, and media influence, blending social satire with light-heartedness to invite laughter and thought. Presented by Théâtre de l’Argument, it features inventive direction by Paul Moulin and precise sound design by Christophe Danvin, with a diverse cast including the voice talent of Serge Biavan.

In French.

Tuesday 16 June, 19:00

Join us for a welcoming collective listening session of the podcast Culture Libre, featuring the episode “nous sommes partout”, followed by a relaxed fanzine exchange. This gathering invites everyone — neighbors, readers, and curious listeners — to listen together, share impressions, and swap independent zines. We’ll create a friendly space for conversation, mutual discovery, and community connection. Come to listen, exchange ideas, meet others, and take away new perspectives and small printed treasures.

In French.

16 – 17 June

Lost in Translation examines the relationships between languages and student mobility from the nineteenth to the twenty‑first century. Through panels, roundtables and a film screening, the conference explores Asian mobilities within imperial Europe, (post)colonial contexts, twentieth-century linguistic practices, multilingualism at the University of Geneva, Cold War dynamics and contemporary mobility patterns. Contributions combine historical research and transnational perspectives to reveal how language shaped student experiences and academic networks. A scientific committee supervises the programme.

In French and English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

British comedian Jimmy Carr returns with Laughs Funny, a sharp stand-up show built on rapid, dark one-liners and razor-tight timing. His delivery alternates between observational punchlines and bold, provocative twists, creating an electric, confrontational atmosphere where laughter and discomfort collide. Minimal staging keeps the focus on voice and rhythm, while the comedian’s precise pacing and stagecraft shape a haunted, high-energy comic experience.

In English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

An intimate decade-spanning portrait of Shewit, who flees Eritrea and journeys alone to Europe, arriving in Switzerland as a teenager with dreams and hopes. Filmed over ten years, the documentary traces her struggle without residency, her fight against expulsion and her quest for emancipation. Through observational cinematography and patient long-form storytelling, the film renders resilience, longing and the everyday courage of a young woman carving a life against political and bureaucratic pressures.

Screening with the movie team.

Tuesday 16 June, 12:15

Jacques Berchtold presents a study of Rousseau’s self-identification with exile, in dialogue with Chake Matossian (Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts, Brussels). He situates Rousseau’s gestures within artistic and textual traditions.

The lecture examines Rousseau’s abrupt adoption of Armenian dress and its representation by painters, linking classical (Ovid at Tomis) and Christian (John Chrysostom) models. Berchtold investigates the Enlightenment re-reading of Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat and argues this purification of origin frames Rousseau as a new Noah confronting modern degeneration.

In French.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

Adapted from Fabcaro’s comic, “Zaï zaï zaï zaï” is a live radio play that is both witty and sharp. It tells the story of a man who becomes public enemy number one after forgetting his loyalty card at the supermarket. This performance cleverly examines collective behavior, security overreach, and media influence, blending social satire with light-heartedness to invite laughter and thought. Presented by Théâtre de l’Argument, it features inventive direction by Paul Moulin and precise sound design by Christophe Danvin, with a diverse cast including the voice talent of Serge Biavan.

In French.

Tuesday 16 June, 19:00

Join us for a welcoming collective listening session of the podcast Culture Libre, featuring the episode “nous sommes partout”, followed by a relaxed fanzine exchange. This gathering invites everyone — neighbors, readers, and curious listeners — to listen together, share impressions, and swap independent zines. We’ll create a friendly space for conversation, mutual discovery, and community connection. Come to listen, exchange ideas, meet others, and take away new perspectives and small printed treasures.

In French.

16 – 17 June

Lost in Translation examines the relationships between languages and student mobility from the nineteenth to the twenty‑first century. Through panels, roundtables and a film screening, the conference explores Asian mobilities within imperial Europe, (post)colonial contexts, twentieth-century linguistic practices, multilingualism at the University of Geneva, Cold War dynamics and contemporary mobility patterns. Contributions combine historical research and transnational perspectives to reveal how language shaped student experiences and academic networks. A scientific committee supervises the programme.

In French and English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

British comedian Jimmy Carr returns with Laughs Funny, a sharp stand-up show built on rapid, dark one-liners and razor-tight timing. His delivery alternates between observational punchlines and bold, provocative twists, creating an electric, confrontational atmosphere where laughter and discomfort collide. Minimal staging keeps the focus on voice and rhythm, while the comedian’s precise pacing and stagecraft shape a haunted, high-energy comic experience.

In English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

An intimate decade-spanning portrait of Shewit, who flees Eritrea and journeys alone to Europe, arriving in Switzerland as a teenager with dreams and hopes. Filmed over ten years, the documentary traces her struggle without residency, her fight against expulsion and her quest for emancipation. Through observational cinematography and patient long-form storytelling, the film renders resilience, longing and the everyday courage of a young woman carving a life against political and bureaucratic pressures.

Screening with the movie team.

Tuesday 16 June, 12:15

Jacques Berchtold presents a study of Rousseau’s self-identification with exile, in dialogue with Chake Matossian (Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts, Brussels). He situates Rousseau’s gestures within artistic and textual traditions.

The lecture examines Rousseau’s abrupt adoption of Armenian dress and its representation by painters, linking classical (Ovid at Tomis) and Christian (John Chrysostom) models. Berchtold investigates the Enlightenment re-reading of Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat and argues this purification of origin frames Rousseau as a new Noah confronting modern degeneration.

In French.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

Adapted from Fabcaro’s comic, “Zaï zaï zaï zaï” is a live radio play that is both witty and sharp. It tells the story of a man who becomes public enemy number one after forgetting his loyalty card at the supermarket. This performance cleverly examines collective behavior, security overreach, and media influence, blending social satire with light-heartedness to invite laughter and thought. Presented by Théâtre de l’Argument, it features inventive direction by Paul Moulin and precise sound design by Christophe Danvin, with a diverse cast including the voice talent of Serge Biavan.

In French.

Tuesday 16 June, 19:00

Join us for a welcoming collective listening session of the podcast Culture Libre, featuring the episode “nous sommes partout”, followed by a relaxed fanzine exchange. This gathering invites everyone — neighbors, readers, and curious listeners — to listen together, share impressions, and swap independent zines. We’ll create a friendly space for conversation, mutual discovery, and community connection. Come to listen, exchange ideas, meet others, and take away new perspectives and small printed treasures.

In French.

16 – 17 June

Lost in Translation examines the relationships between languages and student mobility from the nineteenth to the twenty‑first century. Through panels, roundtables and a film screening, the conference explores Asian mobilities within imperial Europe, (post)colonial contexts, twentieth-century linguistic practices, multilingualism at the University of Geneva, Cold War dynamics and contemporary mobility patterns. Contributions combine historical research and transnational perspectives to reveal how language shaped student experiences and academic networks. A scientific committee supervises the programme.

In French and English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

British comedian Jimmy Carr returns with Laughs Funny, a sharp stand-up show built on rapid, dark one-liners and razor-tight timing. His delivery alternates between observational punchlines and bold, provocative twists, creating an electric, confrontational atmosphere where laughter and discomfort collide. Minimal staging keeps the focus on voice and rhythm, while the comedian’s precise pacing and stagecraft shape a haunted, high-energy comic experience.

In English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

An intimate decade-spanning portrait of Shewit, who flees Eritrea and journeys alone to Europe, arriving in Switzerland as a teenager with dreams and hopes. Filmed over ten years, the documentary traces her struggle without residency, her fight against expulsion and her quest for emancipation. Through observational cinematography and patient long-form storytelling, the film renders resilience, longing and the everyday courage of a young woman carving a life against political and bureaucratic pressures.

Screening with the movie team.

Tuesday 16 June, 12:15

Jacques Berchtold presents a study of Rousseau’s self-identification with exile, in dialogue with Chake Matossian (Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts, Brussels). He situates Rousseau’s gestures within artistic and textual traditions.

The lecture examines Rousseau’s abrupt adoption of Armenian dress and its representation by painters, linking classical (Ovid at Tomis) and Christian (John Chrysostom) models. Berchtold investigates the Enlightenment re-reading of Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat and argues this purification of origin frames Rousseau as a new Noah confronting modern degeneration.

In French.

Saturday 20 June, 09:00

Paella and Watches is a convivial gathering for vintage watch enthusiasts, collectors, and curious visitors alike. Bringing together a selection of specialized dealers, the event offers a unique opportunity to discover exceptional timepieces, exchange expertise, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Geneva.

19 – 20 June

Join a long-standing local celebration at Métissages Festival, marking a quarter-century of shared culture. This community-focused gathering brings together neighbours, artists and visitors to enjoy music, performances and cultural exchanges. Open to everyone, the festival encourages participation, conversation and collective creativity through workshops, informal encounters and live moments. It celebrates cultural mixing and strengthens communal ties, offering space to meet, learn and connect with neighbours and new friends.

Saturday 20 June, 14:30

Planète Rouge returns with an immersive celebration of music, bringing together live performances, DJ sets, and its signature Face2Face sessions across two of Geneva’s most iconic cultural venues. From afternoon concerts in an open-air setting to an energetic late-night afterparty, the event offers more than fifteen hours of continuous music and collective experience. Blending emerging talents and established artists, Planète Rouge creates a vibrant atmosphere where discovery, connection, and dance take centre stage, transforming the city into a dynamic meeting point for music lovers and celebrating the unifying spirit of contemporary live culture.

18 – 28 June

Frank Zappa’s opera “200 Motels” is showing in Switzerland for the first time. This dynamic musical-theatrical piece is brought to life by director Daniel Kramer and conductor Titus Engel, featuring an impressive and diverse cast, including Robin Adams, Brenda Rae, and legendary guitarist Mike Keneally. Known for his iconic rock career, Zappa presents an experimental and psychedelic work that blends opera, rock, and contemporary classical music. “200 Motels” offers a chaotic and extravagant journey across the United States, mirroring the wild lives of Zappa and the Mothers of Invention.

In English with French subtitles.

Saturday 20 June, 16:00 and 18:00

Led by Sarah Russi and Samuel Delasalle, this end-of-year showcase gathers young actors from the theatre workshops to present short staged pieces. The programme highlights playful explorations of physical expression, vocal presence and spatial awareness, shifting between improvised moments and crafted scenes. Performances reveal curiosity, boldness and ensemble listening, offering a lively portrait of emerging performers and the creative process nurtured throughout the workshops.

In French.

4:00 PM – 5:15 PM Children’s Show
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Teen Show

17 – 21 June

Directed by Françoise Courvoisier, Les Glycines is a new creation by the TAC ensemble that examines the theme of madness through comic and reflective lenses. Performers including Nicole Aubert, Loulou Morisod, Catherine Vaucher, Zamila Yunus, Patrice von Büren, Claude Morex and Daniel Mouchet use improvised confidences to weave reality and fantasy. The staging blends intimacy and humour, shaping a tailored theatrical work for this company. Produced by Les Amis – Le Chariot.

In French.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

Adapted from Fabcaro’s comic, “Zaï zaï zaï zaï” is a live radio play that is both witty and sharp. It tells the story of a man who becomes public enemy number one after forgetting his loyalty card at the supermarket. This performance cleverly examines collective behavior, security overreach, and media influence, blending social satire with light-heartedness to invite laughter and thought. Presented by Théâtre de l’Argument, it features inventive direction by Paul Moulin and precise sound design by Christophe Danvin, with a diverse cast including the voice talent of Serge Biavan.

In French.

Tuesday 16 June, 19:00

Join us for a welcoming collective listening session of the podcast Culture Libre, featuring the episode “nous sommes partout”, followed by a relaxed fanzine exchange. This gathering invites everyone — neighbors, readers, and curious listeners — to listen together, share impressions, and swap independent zines. We’ll create a friendly space for conversation, mutual discovery, and community connection. Come to listen, exchange ideas, meet others, and take away new perspectives and small printed treasures.

In French.

16 – 17 June

Lost in Translation examines the relationships between languages and student mobility from the nineteenth to the twenty‑first century. Through panels, roundtables and a film screening, the conference explores Asian mobilities within imperial Europe, (post)colonial contexts, twentieth-century linguistic practices, multilingualism at the University of Geneva, Cold War dynamics and contemporary mobility patterns. Contributions combine historical research and transnational perspectives to reveal how language shaped student experiences and academic networks. A scientific committee supervises the programme.

In French and English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

British comedian Jimmy Carr returns with Laughs Funny, a sharp stand-up show built on rapid, dark one-liners and razor-tight timing. His delivery alternates between observational punchlines and bold, provocative twists, creating an electric, confrontational atmosphere where laughter and discomfort collide. Minimal staging keeps the focus on voice and rhythm, while the comedian’s precise pacing and stagecraft shape a haunted, high-energy comic experience.

In English.

Tuesday 16 June, 20:00

An intimate decade-spanning portrait of Shewit, who flees Eritrea and journeys alone to Europe, arriving in Switzerland as a teenager with dreams and hopes. Filmed over ten years, the documentary traces her struggle without residency, her fight against expulsion and her quest for emancipation. Through observational cinematography and patient long-form storytelling, the film renders resilience, longing and the everyday courage of a young woman carving a life against political and bureaucratic pressures.

Screening with the movie team.

Tuesday 16 June, 12:15

Jacques Berchtold presents a study of Rousseau’s self-identification with exile, in dialogue with Chake Matossian (Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts, Brussels). He situates Rousseau’s gestures within artistic and textual traditions.

The lecture examines Rousseau’s abrupt adoption of Armenian dress and its representation by painters, linking classical (Ovid at Tomis) and Christian (John Chrysostom) models. Berchtold investigates the Enlightenment re-reading of Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat and argues this purification of origin frames Rousseau as a new Noah confronting modern degeneration.

In French.

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CoolBytes

Celebrating Geneva’s vibrant heartbeat and the stories shaping culture today

If you’ve walked along the boulevard des Philosophes recently, you may have paused in front of number 20, wondering about the banner stretched across the facade: "Equality is built. Together. La Collective will open its doors in 2027— a space bringing together seven women's associations, a café, a library, housing, childcare, and cultural life under one roof. One of the women behind it, Laurence Levrat-Pictet, has spent a lifetime making things like this happen. I went to find out how.
Writer, interviewer, collector of conversations. Alain Elkann has sat across from presidents, cardinals, artists, and Nobel Prize winners — thousands of conversations spanning decades — and never once posed a question he wasn't willing to abandon. I met him at his home in Geneva to talk a bit about everything: the craft of the interview, the future of books, why common sense might be the most underrated virtue of our time, and the advice that has stayed with him since childhood.

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