From 27 to 30 March 2025, professionals from the performing arts sector came together at Zirkusquartier in Zurich to discuss organizational models inspired by feminist movements.
These movements have historically sought to limit power dynamics by developing more horizontal and democratic forms of governance. Since the 1970s, many tools and strategies have been developed to break with traditional patriarchal structures, such as cooperative or participatory management, non-violent communication, or spaces that are deliberately non-mixed. In the performing arts, these principles have inspired new collaborative approaches, encouraging companies and collectives to share decision-making and distribute artistic responsibilities more equitably. Challenges remain despite these advances, notably in the space between theoretical equality and realities where forms of informal power still exist.
The three days alternated between practical workshops, discussions, and presentations. Agathe Dumont led a workshop on artists’ health, the Collectif Fracas addressed conflict management from a queer and feminist perspective, and the Collective Tools Project presented inclusive tools for collaboration. Discussions also focused on modes of governance in the performing arts. The Reboot project was presented at Circ-Exchange, fostering discussion and the sharing of concrete practices adapted to the challenges of the cultural sector.
Partner: Zirkusquartier
