WHERE TO FIND CULTURE (IN ENGLISH) IN GENEVA
by Chené Koscielny
Geneva has a very rich cultural scene that reflects the diversity of its people. (Nearly two out of three of local residents hold a foreign passport, according to Swissinfo).
It is our job and our pleasure ! to point out the many English-friendly cultural offerings, including theatre, film, music, dance and museums in the city. THINGS TO DO IN GENEVA also produces the Ville de Geneve’s monthly Arts and Culture in Geneva in English newsletter, which features events organised or sponsored by the city.
SIGN UP to the English cultural newsletter here.
MUSEUMS AND ART
The quarterly Nuit des Bains is an event not to miss if you’re into contemporary art – art galleries in the trendy Bains district open their doors for a cultural soirée. The next one will be on the 12th of September 2019. A similar arts evening has recently started in the Old Town – and the next one will be held on 26th September.
MUSEUMS
The City of Geneva’s Cultural Trails is a great way to explore the museums with a detailed self-guided tour (with audio commentary!) that highlights different city districts. – also available in English.
There are more than 40 private and public museums with permanent and temporary exhibitions such as the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the National History Museum, Patek Philippe Museum for watch lovers and the Art and History Museum, the largest museum in Geneva. The latter hosts a magnificent collection of European artists, from Rembrandt to Cézanne, and ranges from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Every spring, Geneva’s museums open their doors La Nuit des Musées, during which the city’s museums open their doors for extended hours. The next such event will be held on May 9, 2020!
OPERA AND THEATRE
The recently renovated Grand Théâtre de Genève at Place de Neuve is a must-see! Don’t miss Einstein on the beach in September and Aïda in October.
The Geneva English Drama Society (GEDS) puts on English-language productions from Shakespeare to contemporary plays, and invites new talent to audition!
COMEDY IN ENGLISH
We love the Renegade Saints’ improv comedy (see them at Mr Pickwick pub. Check out our interview with troupe member Katt Cullen here!
MUSIC
In November “Les Nuits du Monde”, takes place – a world music festival at the Alhambra music hall and the St. Gervais church. This festival features music from around the world, from Mongolian throat singing to traditional Sardinian tunes.
Classical music lovers will already know the Victoria Hall. We definitely recommend the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande (OSR), which just celebrated its 100th anniversary.
During the Summer, the city comes alive with the Fête de la Musique, a festival which showcases local musicians in the streets, on open-air stages, in concert halls, courtyards and churches.
Another highlight is the popular summer music concerts (“Musiques en été 2019”) in Parc la Grange.
FILM
For English-language films, check out boutique cinema Ciné 17. You’ll love the huge reclining seats, a wine bar, an outdoor terrace, and a great selection of VO (original language) films in the city centre.
Les Cinémas du Grütli is also great, with films from around the world shown in their original version with French subtitles (“VOST”). We often enjoy dinner at their café, which has great veggie and healthy meals.
Next up is the annual International Film Festival and Forum on Human Rights (FIFDH), with guest speakers, prizes, a hackathon, and exhibitions.
SIGN UP TO STAY UP TO DATE
To stay up to date with cultural events in the city – SUBSCRIBE to the Ville de Geneve’s Arts and Culture in Geneva in English Newsletter and also SIGN UP to the THINGS TO DO IN GENEVA weekly newsletter for things to do, restaurants, music, shopping, events and more.
