We Are Merely Players - The Village Player's short play festival is just around the corner, with two evenings of drama, laughter, and unforgettable performances. Over two nights, you can enjoy three short plays. And The Village Players are offering one lucky knowitall.ch reader a chance to win a pair of tickets to the evening of your choice.
“Note to Sixth-Grade Self” by Julie Orringer. Directed by Tristan Pannatier
Synopsis: A 12-year-old girl is going through a difficult time at school, where she is rejected by her classmates. Fortunately, she can count on an unexpected help: her adult “self,” who guides her through time. Together, can they change the course of events?
- Bríd Corrigan
- Charlotte Berns
- Fleur Krüger
- Joséphine Tendon
“The Breakdown” by A. Dürrenmatt. Directed by Alessio Siviglia
Synopsis: A salesperson’s car breaks down and is forced to take refuge in the villa of a former judge. The play is a dark comedy, in which other guests arrive, and a trial takes place. The line between pretend and real becomes blurry.
- John Holmes
- Zoe Marsaly
- Bríd Corrigan
- Liz Watson
- Nicolas Delpy
- Kiarash Jamshidi
- Jamie Thompson
“The Proposal” by Anton Chekhov. Directed by Alexandra Shelest
Synopsis: A landowner comes to visit his neighbour in order to propose to his daughter. Unfortunately, all does not go to plan. The attempted betrothal turns into an argument, but the couple lose themselves in arguments. An attempt for reconciliation is made...
- Apostolos Lytras
- Kathryn Bilverstone
- David de Paiva
Where was this idea to host short plays from?
“We Are Merely Players” was born from the idea to create an opportunity for local directors to bring their creative visions to life in a format not often seen: short play performances.
This format enables both experienced and aspiring directors to tell stories rarely staged, and without the creative constraints that can come from full-length productions. In the process, these projects bring together talents across a wide-ranging group of actors from different countries and generations. When we put out the call for directors and their short plays, we were not disappointed. This selection invites audiences to introspect, laugh, and enjoy a bit of the dramatic.
About The Village Players
The Village Players are Lausanne's premier English-language theatre group! Based in the heart of Switzerland, we bring a rich array of amateur theatre performances to our community. In addition to producing two major productions a year, every month, members and guests are invited to experience an exciting mix of informal events at the Centre Pluriculturel et Social d'Ouchy (CPO).
For over 40 years, The Village Players have hosted theatre, music, dance, improv and other similar gatherings. We’re a community group that encourages creativity, offering a variety of opportunities to get involved. From public performances to intimate club events like play readings, open mic nights, or poetry recitals, there’s always something happening. Whether you’re looking to jump on stage, lead backstage, or simply enjoy a show, we have a place for you.
Enter our competition to win a double ticket!
Continuing its long-standing relationship with Know-it-all passport, The Village Players have kindly offered one of our readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the "We Are Merely Players" (value Fr. 40.-for a pair of tickets).
To enter the competition, just fill in this form and answer this multiple choice question: How many short plays make up the festival per evening?
Only one entry per email is allowed. The competition closes at midnight on Tuesday, 4 March 2025. The names of all those submitting correct answers will be placed into the digital hat and the winners' names drawn at random on Wednesday, 5 March 2025. The winners will be notified by email. No cash equivalent of prizes is permitted.
Upcoming events
- WE ARE MERELY PLAYERS
8-9 March 2025
Centre Pluriculturel et Social d'Ouchy, CPO
Beau-Rivage 2
1006 Lausanne, VD
Read the article here for more information. - MARCH CLUB NIGHT: OPEN MIC NIGHT
Thursday, 20 March 2025
19h30
Centre Pluriculturel et Social d'Ouchy, CPO
Beau-Rivage 2
1006 Lausanne, VD
Whether you’re into poetry, drama, music, dance, or anything in-between, this is your time to shine. Have a favorite monologue? Want to test your stand- up comedy? Maybe you’ve got a love song up your sleeve? - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED SPRING 2025 PRODUCTION
The Crucible
15-18 May 2025
Centre Pluriculturel et Social d'Ouchy, CPO
Beau-Rivage 2
1006 Lausanne, VD
The Village Players are seeking any and all hands and skill levels who can help them behind-the-scenes to bring to life "The Crucible". This is a big production and they want to get as many people involved as possible. If you have any knowledge of, or simply want to learn, costuming, make-up, hair, set design, stage management, etc. please email the team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and let them know what you're interested in! Please share with your friends if there's anyone you know who might have a particular area of expertise they'd be willing to volunteer for.
