Cabaret Voltaire
ZĂĽrich
Cabaret Voltaire, founded on February 5, 1916, in Zurich, Switzerland, is celebrated as the birthplace of the Dada movement, a radical avant-garde art and literary movement reacting against the horrors of World War I. Established by Hugo Ball and Emmy Hennings in the back room of the Holländische Meierei at Spiegelgasse 1, it served as a cabaret for artistic and political expression. The venue hosted performances of sound poetry, simultaneous poetry, dance, and music, often experimental and anarchic, with contributions from key figures such as Marcel Janco, Richard Huelsenbeck, Tristan Tzara, Sophie Taeuber-Arp, and Jean Arp. The cabaret was a hub for artists from diverse avant-garde backgrounds, including Futurism, and featured works by Wassily Kandinsky, Paul Klee, Giorgio de Chirico, and Max Ernst. Although it closed in the summer of 1916, its influence was profound, marking a turning point in modern art and performance. The building was revived in the 21st century as a museum, bar, and cultural space, continuing the legacy of Dada with exhibitions, performances, and events that celebrate experimental art and culture.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the official website for the current schedule of performances, exhibitions, and events, as Cabaret Voltaire functions as a vibrant cultural space. The best time to visit is during special event nights or exhibitions to experience the cabaret's artistic spirit. Tickets for events may be limited, so purchasing in advance is recommended. Discounts may be available for students and groups. The venue is accessible by public transport in Zurich.
Interesting facts
- •Cabaret Voltaire was ranked the 25th best work of performance art in history in 2013.
- •The Dada Manifesto was first read here by Hugo Ball on July 28, 1916.
- •The building was squatted in 2002 by neo-Dadaists to protest its planned closure, sparking a cultural revival.
- •The original cabaret was located just a few meters from Lenin's residence in Zurich.
- •The cabaret featured early performances of sound poetry and simultaneous poetry, pioneering new artistic forms.
History
Cabaret Voltaire was founded in 1916 by Hugo Ball and Emmy Hennings amid the influx of refugees and artists to neutral Switzerland during World War I.
It opened in the back room of the Holländische Meierei at Spiegelgasse 1 and quickly became the cradle of the Dada movement, hosting experimental performances and artistic collaborations.
The cabaret closed in summer 1916 as the Dadaists moved to other venues in Zurich and abroad.
In the early 2000s, the building was squatted by neo-Dadaist artists to protest its closure, leading to its revival as a cultural center and museum dedicated to Dada art, reopening officially in 2004.
Place Guide
Historical Performance Hall1916
The upper room where the original Dada performances took place, featuring experimental poetry, music, and dance. It was painted black with a blue ceiling and hosted around fifty guests at tables.
Exhibition Space and Vault (Gewölbekeller)21st century
A vaulted cellar used for rotating exhibitions showcasing Dada art and contemporary avant-garde works, continuing the spirit of experimentation and cultural dialogue.
Bar and Café Area21st century
A lively social space blending the original cabaret's spirit with contemporary culture, offering visitors a place to relax and discuss art and ideas.
Contact
Phone: 043 268 08 44
