Join Our Monday Play Readings
January 12, 2026 at 6:30:00 PM
Almost, Maine
A woman carries her heart, broken into nineteen pieces, in a small paper bag. A man shrinks to half his former size, after losing hope in love. A couple keep the love they have given each other in large red bags, or compress the mass into the size of a diamond. These playful and surreal experiences are commonplace in the world of John Cariani’s Almost, Maine, where on one deeply cold and magical Midwinter Night, the citizens of Almost -- not organized enough for a town, too populated for a wilderness -- experience the life-altering power of the human heart. Relationships end, begin, or change beyond recognition, as strangers become friends, friends become lovers, and lovers turn into strangers. Propelled by the mystical energy of the aurora borealis and populated with characters who are humorous, plain-spoken, thoughtful, and sincere, Almost, Maine is a series of loosely connected tales about love, each with a compelling couple at its center, each with its own touch of sorcery.
January 19, 2026 at 6:30:00 PM
NO READING
No Play Reading
January 26, 2026 at 6:30:00 PM
The Book of Will by Lauren Gunderson
Set in the wake of Shakespeare’s death, The Book of Will follows the Bard’s loyal friends and fellow actors, John Heminges and Henry Condell, as they realize his masterpieces are being lost to history or mangled by memory. To preserve his legacy, they embark on a race against time and rival publishers to collect the scattered scripts and print what would become the First Folio. Gunderson's play is a witty and deeply moving tribute to the power of friendship and the enduring magic of the theatre.
February 2, 2026 at 6:30:00 PM
An Enemy of the People by Henrik Ibsen adapted by Ostermeier
Coming soon
February 9, 2026 at 6:30:00 PM
A Number by Carryl Churchill
Coming soon
February 16, 2026 at 11:00:00 AM
Bonnie & Clyde by Frank Wildhorn (MUSICAL)
Coming soon
March 16, 2026 at 6:30:00 PM
An Innocent Little Murder by Jean Pierre Martinez
Coming soon
Our popular ZEST Monday Readings are a fantastic way to explore diverse scripts, connect with fellow theatre enthusiasts, and get to know our community in a relaxed, informal setting. Held almost every Monday evening at St. Andrew's Community Centre in central Zurich, these sessions are a cornerstone of ZEST.
What To Expect
Our Monday Readings are a unique way to experience the world of theatre. Here's a quick look at what happens:
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Relaxed and Informal: We read scripts in hand, without rehearsals, sets, or costumes. The focus is on discovery and fun.
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Open to Everyone: These sessions are for both ZEST members and those curious about joining. Anyone who understands and speaks English is welcome.
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Getting Involved: Newcomers are never pressured to read. You're welcome to simply listen, and you can speak to a committee member at any time if you'd like to get more involved.
Ready to Dive In?
There's no need to sign up in advance. Simply check our calendar for the next session and come along!
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Time: Sessions typically start around 19:30, with an informal get-together starting at 19:00.
Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe to our newsletter for newcomers to get the latest news and invitations.
Support Our Community
These readings are a great way to experience ZEST, but they are just the beginning. The sessions are organized by members, for members. By becoming a ZEST member, you help support our community and the production of our plays.

























