Reflections
Why I still bring plays in our language — after 20 years
There are easier jobs and safer models. But some work is done with the whole heart — bringing theatre in our language to Switzerland is one of them.
There are easier jobs and safer models. And there are surely projects with less stress — but also with less joy.
And yet, more than 20 years ago, I decided to do exactly this — to bring plays, films, and concerts in our language to Switzerland.
Not because it is easy. But because it is needed, and because back in the 90s this is the very thing I missed most.
Because every time I see a full hall, hear the laughter, hear someone say after the show "this was so good for us", and see those bright faces — I know why I do this.
The diaspora is not just an audience. These are people living between two worlds.
That is exactly why these are not just "events" — they are moments when people reconnect with themselves.
Over the years I learned one important thing: quality matters, but emotion sells the ticket.
That is why I always choose projects that carry something more — a story, honesty, identity.
Today, after two decades, I can say: we are not just making events, we are building a community.
And as long as there is a need for that feeling of "ours", I will keep going.
See you at the next event.
— Evica
Our stories
What it takes to put on an event (the part the audience never sees)
Evica MarkovićFebruary 2026Lights, stage, emotion — it all looks simple once the curtain rises. Behind it stand months of preparation, negotiation, and fighting for attention.
Read more
Why Balkan culture in the diaspora matters more today than ever
Evica MarkovićJanuary 2026What was once unusual is now a need — culture in our language not as nostalgia, but as identity.
Read more
How to pick the right event in our language in Switzerland
Evica MarkovićDecember 2025Theatre, film, or concert? There is no wrong choice — but there is the right choice for you, at the right moment.
Read more
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
HELSE is a Swiss cultural association that fosters exchange between Switzerland and Serbia. Through theatre, film, music, stand-up and children's workshops we build cultural bridges — alive, inspiring and open to everyone.
Our programme is diverse: theatre performances, film screenings, stand-up comedy, concerts, readings, seminars and children's workshops.
Events run year-round — the current schedule lives in the Events section.
Tickets are sold online via each event's page and, for some programmes, at the door before the show. HELSE members receive discounts on selected events.
Membership is open to anyone who wants to support the association. The annual fee is CHF 70, with reduced rates for students and pensioners.
Sign up via the Membership page — for any additional questions, write to info@helse.ch.
Our address is Zurichstrasse 167, 8057 Zürich. The venue is well connected by public transport; specific event locations are always listed with the schedule.