The City of Bern's search for new management for the Dampfzentrale cultural center has activated the local cultural scene. As the application deadline of September 30 approaches, several groups have submitted proposals for the facility's operation starting in 2028. This includes the current Dampfzentrale association, which plans to present a new leadership team, and the Bern-based concert organizer Bee-flat, which aims to integrate dance into its concept.
Key Takeaways
- The Dampfzentrale association will apply with a new management team for 2028.
- Bee-flat plans a concept for Dampfzentrale, focusing on dance.
- A nine-member jury will select three finalists for the next round.
- The final decision on the new operator is expected in April 2026.
Current Leadership Steps Down, New Team Sought
The existing Dampfzentrale association has confirmed its application for the future use of the cultural venue. However, this application will feature a new management team. The current leadership, consisting of Anneli Binder, Roger Ziegler, and Karin Bitterli, will not continue in their roles after 2028.
This information came from a recent newsletter sent to the association's members. The newsletter stated that the current management is assisting with the city's submission process. They have decided to "pursue new paths from 2028 and create space for new people and new ideas."
Fact: Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications for the future management of the Dampfzentrale is September 30. This date marks a critical point in the selection process.
Bee-flat Enters Race with Dance-Focused Concept
Among the new applicants is Bee-flat, a Bern-based concert organizer. Bee-flat is known for hosting concerts at the Progr's Turnhalle venue. Annie Rüfenacht, a member of the Bee-flat board, stated that dance will be a central part of their proposal.
Bee-flat will not disclose full details of its concept unless its application advances to the second round. The organization recently faced financial challenges, including a deficit. They successfully secured a crowdfunding campaign and an additional credit from the Bern City Council to address these issues.
"Dance will play a central role in our submission," said Annie Rüfenacht from the Bee-flat board.
Bee-flat's Recent Challenges and Successes
Bee-flat's financial difficulties stemmed from declining revenues and rising costs over the past two decades. These issues threatened their continued operation at the Progr. The approved additional credit from the city council helped stabilize their position.
This recent experience highlights Bee-flat's resilience and commitment to the Bern cultural scene. Their application for Dampfzentrale management reflects a desire to expand their cultural footprint.
City's Unusual Approach Mobilizes Cultural Scene
The City of Bern initiated an open call for ideas for the Dampfzentrale, an uncommon approach for such a cultural institution. This process began because the city felt the previous management team had not met its expectations.
The search for new leadership has energized the local cultural community. Discussions with cultural practitioners reveal significant mobilization. Many groups appear to have formed partnerships with other institutions or artistic disciplines for their applications.
Background: City's Goals for Dampfzentrale
One of the stated goals of the city's tender is to foster collaborations among cultural actors. This encourages applicants to develop broad and inclusive programs.
Confidentiality in the Selection Process
Franziska Burkhardt, the city's cultural representative, confirmed that Culture City Bern will not publicly disclose who has submitted applications. A nine-member jury will review the submissions.
The jury includes notable figures such as Culture Director Burkhardt, City President Marieke Kruit, and Till Grünewald, head of the Bern Generation House. This jury will select three organizations to proceed to the second phase. The names of these three finalists will also remain confidential.
Other Notable Applicants and Their Visions
Beyond the current Dampfzentrale association and Bee-flat, other groups are also vying for the management role.
Beta: A Home for Local Dance
The Beta (Bernese Dance Creators Association) has submitted a concept that includes dance, performance, and music. Sandra Forrer, Beta's managing director, stated that collaboration with other applicants in a second round is an option for Beta.
Beta aims to create a dedicated space for local dance artists, supporting their development and showcasing their work. Their proposal emphasizes the importance of a vibrant local dance scene within Bern.
We are GmbH: Bridging Culture and Media
We are GmbH, located in the old Ryff factory next to Dampfzentrale, also submitted an application. This company has published the cultural magazine "ensuite" since 2003. Lukas Vogelsang, its managing director, described their model as independent with its own structure.
Vogelsang believes culture and media share many thematic connections. He sees his role not in imposing a specific artistic program but in "building bridges through collaborations." Their concept focuses on promoting local artistic talent in dance and music, aiming to enhance its international competitiveness. Details of their program are not yet public.
Groups Choosing Not to Apply
Despite the widespread interest, some groups with cultural visions have decided not to apply for the Dampfzentrale management.
Children's and Youth Theater Initiative
A working group led by Bernese theater maker Doro Müggler has long sought a suitable venue. Two years ago, they presented a vision for a competence center for contemporary performing arts for children and young people.
However, after careful consideration, the group decided against applying for the Dampfzentrale. They communicated to the city that it seemed unrealistic to house a children's and youth theater center within a venue primarily for regional, national, and international dance. They believe such a center requires its own dedicated location.
Criticism from Sama Schwarz
Bernese film and theater director Sama Schwarz, who has managed the Maison du Futur in Zurich since 2020, also chose not to apply. Schwarz previously applied for the management of the Bern City Theater 20 years ago but was not shortlisted.
Schwarz criticized the application conditions, describing them as "too confused, unclear, and indifferent." He also expressed concerns that only associations could apply. "Associations are not a good organizational form for a lean operation that aims for the desired success," Schwarz stated.
Next Steps for Dampfzentrale Management
The process for selecting the new Dampfzentrale management is structured with several key dates:
- Second Phase Application Deadline: February 12, 2026
- Final Decision on Operator: April 2026
- City Council Approval of Performance Contract: December 2026 (expected)
- City Parliament Approval: February 2027 (expected)
- Public Vote on Performance Contracts (2028-2032): June 2027
Future of the Dampfzentrale Beyond 2030
The next management period for the Dampfzentrale will be split. The current usage period is limited until December 2030. The city plans extensive renovations in 2031, during which the premises will be unavailable.
Therefore, applicants are also required to submit proposals for the transitional year of 2031. This ensures continuity and planning for the period when the main facility undergoes renovation. The city aims to secure a robust and adaptable management team capable of navigating both immediate and future challenges for the cultural center.