Cabaret Voltaire

In the heart of Zürich, nestled within the quaint and historic Spiegelgasse, lies a cultural gem that has left an indelible mark on the world of art and literature: the Cabaret Voltaire. This establishment, which first opened its doors in February 1916, is not just a place but a symbol of artistic rebellion and innovation. For those with a penchant for the avant-garde, a visit to the Cabaret Voltaire is akin to stepping into a vibrant chapter of history where the Dada movement was born and thrived.

The Birth of an Icon

The inception of Cabaret Voltaire is as intriguing as its name, a playful juxtaposition of the nocturnal allure of a cabaret with the intellectual gravitas of the philosopher Voltaire. The story begins with Emmy Hennings and Hugo Ball, members of a group of young artists who wandered from café to café under the banner of Cabaret Pantagruel. Their journey led them to a small, unassuming bistro called the Métairie hollandaise, where they saw potential in a disused room. With permission from the owner, they transformed this space, and on February 5, 1916, Cabaret Voltaire was born.

A Haven for Artists

From its inception, Cabaret Voltaire became a magnet for artists of all stripes. The painter Marcel Janco, while exploring old Zürich, stumbled upon the cabaret and was drawn in by the sounds of music emanating from within. Inside, he found Hennings singing and Ball playing the piano. This serendipitous encounter led to a collaboration with other artists like the poet Tristan Tzara and the painter Jean Arp, who would all contribute to the cabaret's growing renown.

Financial constraints meant that Hennings and Ball couldn't afford to refurbish the venue. Instead, they turned to their friends, who lent them artworks to adorn the walls. Thus, the cabaret's interior became a gallery of avant-garde masterpieces, featuring works by luminaries such as Modigliani, Picasso, Kandinsky, Klee, Jawlensky, Léger, and Matisse. This eclectic mix of futurist, cubist, and expressionist art created a unique and inspiring atmosphere for the young Zürich artists who gathered there for musical and literary performances.

The Dada Movement

Cabaret Voltaire's significance extends beyond its role as a cultural hub; it is the birthplace of the Dada movement. According to Marcel Janco, Dada was a concept that had always been with them, waiting to be crystallized. The word Dada itself was discovered in a Zürich café, its simplicity and ambiguity embodying the movement's spirit. On February 8, 1916, Hugo Ball's reading of the Dada Manifesto marked the movement's official launch, although its first tangible expressions were the Poèmes sans mots (Poems without words) recited at the cabaret on June 23, 1916, and the fiery performances of Richard Huelsenbeck.

The historical context of World War I played a crucial role in the emergence of Dada. Zürich, a neutral haven amidst the chaos, attracted refugees, dissidents, intellectuals, and artists seeking solace and freedom. Cabaret Voltaire became a melting pot of ideas and a sanctuary for those who sought to challenge the status quo and redefine art and literature.

A Modern Revival

Fast forward to the 21st century, and Cabaret Voltaire has experienced a renaissance thanks to the dedication of Dada enthusiasts. In the summer of 2004, Philipp Meier was appointed director, with Adrian Notz as his deputy. Together, they revitalized the cabaret, with Meier overseeing PostDADA and Notz focusing on DADAlogy. Since 2012, Notz has been the sole director, continuing to uphold the cabaret's legacy.

Today, Cabaret Voltaire celebrates Dadaist personalities such as Alexandre Archipenko, Tatsuo Okada, and Michel Bakounine. In 2014, its members subsidized the maintenance of Bakounine's grave in the Bremgarten cemetery in Bern, and in 2016, they installed a new plaque created by Swiss artist Daniel Garbade.

Visiting Cabaret Voltaire

A visit to Cabaret Voltaire offers a unique glimpse into a pivotal moment in art history. The venue, with its eclectic decor and rich history, continues to host performances, exhibitions, and events that honor the spirit of Dada. As you step through its doors, you are transported back to a time when artists dared to defy conventions and explore new frontiers in creativity.

Whether you're an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply curious, Cabaret Voltaire is a must-visit destination in Zürich. Its walls echo with the voices of the past, and its vibrant energy promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the enduring legacy of the Dada movement.