English Theatre in Switzerland

A Comprehensive Guide to the Community

While Zurich English-Speaking Theatre (ZEST) is a key player in Zurich's vibrant theatre scene, we are just one of many excellent groups bringing English-language productions to audiences across Switzerland.

This page is a guide to the wider English-speaking theatre community, helping you discover a show or group near you, whether you’re in Basel, Geneva, or somewhere in between.

English-Speaking Theatre Groups in Switzerland

Here is an alphabetical list of notable English-speaking theatre groups and venues across the country.

Basel English Pantomime Group

Basel

A theatrical scene with a king in a crown and sash seated on the left. Centre stage, a person in a vibrant purple dress interacts with a kneeling performer in checkered pants, surrounded by actors in colorful costumes, conveying a lively, comedic atmosphere.

Close Encounters Theatre

Zurich

A group of performers with dramatic black eye makeup and intense expressions raise their hands in front of them. The scene conveys tension and energy.

English Theatre Group Zug

Zug

A man in a striped suit and bow tie stands between a boy and a girl, who are dressed in vintage clothing. They appear on stage with emotive expressions.

Geneva Amateur Operatic Society

Geneva

Geneva English Drama Society

Geneva

A woman and a man in elaborate, fairy-like costumes embrace on stage, surrounded by a forest backdrop. The scene conveys a mystical and romantic atmosphere.

Simply Theatre

Zurich

A person with a serene expression wears a white headpiece with tall, crystal-like spikes. The background is a soft blue, creating a mystical atmosphere.

The Caretakers

Bern

Seven women, seated in a circle on small blocks, are illuminated by warm, dramatic yellow lighting against a dark background, suggesting a serious discussion.

The Semi-Circle

Basel

A person in a horned bug costume and green face paint sits on a couch beside a person in glasses, wearing a superhero T-shirt and striped pants, looking pensive.

Upstage

Bern

A person in a tie and glasses stands in front, with multiple people behind extending their arms sideways, creating a dynamic, layered effect. The mood is artistic and theatrical.

Upstart Entertainment

Basel

Four people gather around a wooden table in a cozy, rustic room. Lively discussion and warm lighting create an inviting, intimate atmosphere.

Village Players

Lausanne

A group of men in diverse costumes stands closely together on stage. The central figure, with curly hair and a velvet jacket, appears surprised. Surrounding him are men in fur, leather, and period attire, suggesting a dramatic tension. The lighting is dim, focusing on their expressions.

White Rabbit Theatre Company

Zurich/Winterthur

A man holds a chair aggressively over his shoulder in a tense scene. Two other men in vintage clothing stand behind him, gesturing, in front of blue curtains.

You Do You Theatre Co.

Zurich

A man kneels beside a seated woman on a bench in a dimly lit theater. They appear engaged in conversation, with a backdrop of a dark curtain.

A Note to the Community

This list is not exhaustive, and we know there are many other talented groups across Switzerland. Our goal is to create the most comprehensive resource possible.

If you represent an English-speaking theatre group, please contact us at publicity@thezest.ch to be included, updated, or removed from this list.

Get Involved in English Theatre

Whether you’re an actor, director, or just a theatre enthusiast, there are many ways to participate in Switzerland's English-speaking theatre scene.

Audition: Many of the groups listed above are always looking for new talent. Keep an eye on their websites for audition announcements.
Volunteer: Theatre productions require a huge amount of work behind the scenes. You can get involved with set design, costumes, lighting, or front of house.
Attend a Show: The best way to support the community is to buy a ticket!

Our Place in the Community

Since our founding in 1954, the Zurich English-Speaking Theatre (ZEST) has been committed to producing high-quality English-language plays in Zurich. We are proud to be part of a vibrant network of theatre groups across Switzerland and look forward to collaborating with and supporting our fellow performers for years to come.

Feel free to browse our Past Productions or learn more about Upcoming Shows here in Zurich.