Schiffbau

Schiffbau is a former shipbuilding hall in Zürich-West that now serves as the second stage of the Schauspielhaus Zürich, one of the leading German-language theatres. The industrial building has been turned into an arts complex where the raw character of a factory meets a lively, modern stage.

Where does the name Schiffbau come from?

The word means "shipbuilding" in German. The surrounding quarter is called Escher Wyss, after the firm Escher Wyss & Cie., which operated here from the mid-19th century. According to available sources, it built more than 600 boats between 1837 and 1914 for Lake Zurich, the Danube and the Black Sea. Shipbuilding here ran until 1940, after which the works concentrated on turbines.

How did the hall become a theatre?

The building was rebuilt between 1996 and 2000 by the architects Ortner&Ortner, who also extended it. It is protected as a heritage building, so the conversion kept the industrial feel of the interior. Christoph Marthaler opened the Halle in September 2000 with his production "Hotel Angst".

What is inside?

• Halle – the main hall, seating 400 to 600 depending on the staging.
• Box – a smaller stage with up to 200 seats.
• Matchbox – an intimate space for 70, run by the Junge Schauspielhaus, the company aimed at young audiences.

The building also houses rehearsal stages, workshops and the Schauspielhaus offices. On site you will find the LaSalle restaurant and bar and the Moods jazz club, so an evening here can include more than the performance itself.

Who is it for?

Theatre lovers, fans of industrial architecture and anyone interested in urban transformation. Even without a ticket, the foyer is worth a look to see how a former shipyard became a cultural venue. Zürich-West is now one of the city's trendiest districts, with old factories converted into galleries, clubs and restaurants.

Frequently asked questions

What is Schiffbau in Zurich? A former shipbuilding hall, now the second stage of the Schauspielhaus Zürich with three theatre spaces.

Is there anything besides theatre? Yes, the LaSalle restaurant and bar and the Moods jazz club are in the same building.

How many seats are there? The Halle seats 400 to 600, the Box up to 200 and the Matchbox 70.

Is the building listed? Yes, it is under a preservation order.

When did the theatre open here? In September 2000, with Christoph Marthaler's production "Hotel Angst".

Is it suitable for children? The Junge Schauspielhaus programmes work for young audiences in the Matchbox; check the theatre's website for the current schedule.