Tanzhaus Zürich is the production house for the region’s contemporary choreographic work.
Apart from supporting newcomers, we establish long-term, reciprocal relationships and cultivate existing partnerships. Defining the scope and nature of these partnerships is part of the joint process between the artists and the Tanzhaus team. We call this model of collaboration the accomplices model. Through the proximity created in this way, the artists actively participate in shaping the Tanzhaus program: productions, residencies, research, workshops, discursive formats, coaching of our newcomer platform Show-Off, working in the dramaturgy pool etc.
When
The accomplices model was developed in light of the new funding system of City of Zurich Culture (German only) and in discussion with a number of diverse artists. Under the direction of Catja Loepfe, it will run until mid-2026. Guillaume Guilherme and Lisa Letnansky, who will take over the direction starting with the 2026/2027 season, will continue the model in a slightly adapted form.
Why
The new model is intended to reduce production pressure and provide more space for research, reflection and exchange. A further aim is to increasingly carry the artists’ topics out into society.
We are currently working closely with 18 accomplices (individual artists and groups) and their networks over a period of two years.
Who
The Tanzhaus Zürich accomplices
- are clearly rooted in a of Zurich-based community,
- pursue their own choreographic signature and/or movement practice,
- have collaborated with Tanzhaus Zürich before (residency, Show-Off, associated festival),
- are interested in developing a reciprocal relationship with Tanzhaus Zürich,
- work out of a personal, social and/or aesthetic urgency.
Apart from these main criteria, it is important to us that the accomplices share the values of Tanzhaus Zürich. Further integral components of the cooperation are outlined here.
Here you can find the accomplices, who were selected over the course of three rounds.
What
In addition to research time, Sharings or smaller performances and the development of new formats, the accomplices can each realize one larger stage production. Collaborations among the accomplices as well as with other players are explicitly desired and supported by Tanzhaus.
Under the new model, Tanzhaus will continue to co-produce various festivals, which are curated externally, however.
We will also continue to create pieces for young audiences under the label Tanzhaus young. Since this segment is very important to us, accomplices who produce both for adults as well as children and young people can create one production per segment if they wish.
How
Between autumn 2023 and September 2024, interested artists were able to apply as accomplices in a total of three rounds. The selection was made by Catja Loepfe (Director Tanzhaus Zürich), Lisa Letnansky (Head of Dramaturgy) and the Tanzhaus dramaturges as well as mediators Simon Froehling, Jessica Huber, Lea Moro, Monica Gillette, and Christina Gabriela Galli.
The Open Call for Complicity starting with the 2026/2027 season is currently running.
The fine print
The accomplices model is an attempt to respond to the changing funding situation in Zurich as well as the needs of the local scene as expressed in discussions with various artists. We will continuously analyze the model and reserve the right to adapt it at any time.