Behind the scenes
What makes a good play — from the organiser's side
When the audience comes to a play, they see a full hall. I, on the other hand, see the whole long process of organising it that came before.
A good play is not just a good script or famous actors — it is a combination of a story that holds your attention, acting that is honest, a rhythm that never drops, and energy that carries over to the audience.
But there is one more crucial factor: does the audience leave with the feeling that they have lived through something?
Over the years I have turned down many projects that were good, but did not have that something.
Today the audience chooses, and they only come if they are motivated and sure of the value of what is being offered to them.
That is why selection is the most important part of my job.
— Evica
Our stories
What twenty years of running cultural events taught me about people
Evica Marković21 July 2026After more than twenty years of working with people, I can honestly say that culture has never been only culture. People do not come to an event only for the play, the film or the concert…
Read moreIntegration without assimilation — can a person belong in two places?
Evica Marković16 July 2026Many people who live abroad feel the same inner conflict: how much do we have to adapt in order to belong? I think the idea of integration is often presented in the wrong way…
Read more
Humour does not translate — why different cultures laugh at different things
Evica Marković14 July 2026Humour says a great deal about people, even more than politics or history. Only when you live between two cultures do you realise how much humour differs from country to country…
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.