YOUNG PICASSO EXHIBIT • SNOWSHOEING & FONDUE • MUBA • EXPAT EXPO • ART ON ICE

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2 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Dear Readers,

Starting this February, the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen will be dedicated February 2019 Volume 7 Issue 5 entirely to Pablo Picasso for a couple of months—presenting the ambitious and highly anticipated exhibit “The Young Picasso—Blue and Rose Periods” TABLE OF CONTENTS with some 80 of his early works created between 1901 and 1906, as well as a complimentary show entitled “Beyeler Collection / Picasso Panorama” that will feature 40 additional pieces created between 1907 and 1972. Also Feature Event: "The Young Picasso" 4–5 this month, you should not miss the last edition of Switzerland’s oldest con- sumer fair, the MUBA, which has been an annual highlight in Basel for more than 100 years! This 10-day home show really has something for everyone, Events in Basel: February 2019 6–9 whether you are looking to decorate your home, discover new wines and foods, try on some unique fashion or jewelry, learn through science experi- ments, or visit the special exhibit of insects and lizards, some of which have Fun Outings: Beyond Basel 10–11 never before been seen in Europe. During the colder months, you have the opportunity to expose your children to a multitude of cultural activities in Basel, including children’s theaters, Swiss Culture and Traditions: Cheese Fondue 12–13 musical plays, puppet theater, and a variety of concerts designed specifically for children and their families. Bring them to try out various instruments at Markets and Fairs 14–17 the Musik-Akademie Basel or sign them up for some educational fun at the PetKids Club of the local animal shelter; the kid’s lecture series at Basel’s university; or workshops and classes in art, sciences, and computers. Calendar: February 2019 18–19 If you are in the mood for some wintery fun, there are countless options in addition to skiing, snowboarding, skating, and tobogganing. Enjoy a snow- sculpture festival in Germany; marvel at the famous Mittelallalin Ice Pavil- Sports and Recreation 20–21 ion near Saas Fee; or experience the magic of a night of moonlit snowshoe- ing followed by a cheese fondue dinner, which you can learn more about in our special section on Swiss Culture and Traditions. Workshops, Tours, and Education 22–25 In this issue you can also learn about Basel’s new interactive online 3D city map (MapBS), the first indoor skydiving facility in German-speaking Switzer- land, the annual testing of the alarm system on February 6, and tips to lower Did You Know? 26–27 your energy consumption this winter. Turn the pages to read about the Back- waren Outlet, an environmentally friendly social engagement project that campaigns against food waste and is good for the wallet while helping people Entertainment: Night on the Town 28–35 in need. Last, but certainly not least, you can as always choose from a multitude of Mark Your Calendar: March 2019 35 great evening events for that perfect night out, including concerts; theater; dance; shows; cognac-, absinth-, and wine-tastings; a fabulous horse show; cinema with live orchestra; the Game of Thrones Concert Show; Art on Ice Ticket Office: Get Your Tickets Now! back page with James Blunt; as well as Clubfestival BScene—two days of concerts from the regional music scene. Be sure to visit us at the Expat Expo on February 10, an annual fair that in- troduces expats to many of the products and services available in the Basel area in English. So, there is no need to hibernate this winter—flip the page to start planning your calendar for what is sure to be an exciting month! Christine Pesold

Basel Life Magazine Staff: Our cover photo shows one of Basel’s fireboats, which is Editor-in-Chief: moored on the Grossbasel side of the Rhein just below the Christine Pesold Klingental ferry. It is about 30 m (approx. 100 ft) long and Advertising & Subscription Manager / Editor: serves to fight fires on board ships, in the harbor, or along the Susanne Hiller shores, as well as provide emergency services to swimmers and other boats on the Rhein between Rheinfelden to Niffer Design & Print: (France). The crew even had to spring into action during the Die Medienmacher AG, Muttenz celebrations for the 125th anniversary of Basel’s professional fire fighters, when a small boat capsized on the river. The boat For more information about subscribing or advertising – please contact us: can also serve as an icebreaker to clear the way for freighters. info basellife.com In addition to these serious jobs, it displays the spraying capa- www.facebook.com/basellifemagazine bilities of its four water monitors at events such as the annual www.basellife.com celebrations of Swiss National Day on July 31.

BASEL LIFE MAGAZINE / BASEL FAMILY GmbH © Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. It is our goal to provide valuable, timely information to our readers. The opinions expressed in the articles in this magazine are those of the contributing authors and do not reflect those of other members of the editorial staff and of any organizations or agencies distributing this magazine. Though we make every attempt to provide accurate information, we cannot be held respon- sible if any event is cancelled, postponed, or modified. We encourage readers to contact the event organizers or their websites to obtain the most current event information. Please note: No part of this periodical may be duplicated in any fashion, or redistributed in any written language, without permission from the executive staff at Basel Family GmbH. If you have any questions, contact Basel Family GmbH staff at: info basellife.com.

photo credits: © john varaklis (cover); © kanton basel-stadt / juri weiss (page 3) February 2019 3 Feature Event

“The Young Picasso” Comes to Riehen

February 3 – May 26 This month, the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen is launching their latest exhibit, “The Young Picasso—Blue and Rose Periods." It is their most ambitious and highest-caliber project yet—and that is saying something, considering the fantastic exhibits they have put on in the past, like the Gauguin and Monet exhibits in recent years. As the title implies, the ­exhibit focuses on a brief, but crucial period in Pablo Picasso’s long career, presenting works created between 1901 and 1906, when Picasso was in his early to mid-20s.

Picasso and Basel these efforts, that he presented the city with three additional paintings The fact that the Fondation Beyeler is staging a Picasso exhibit is not sur- and a drawing that are now part of the museum’s collection. prising, given the special relationship that the city of Basel as well as the Picasso also had a personal relationship with Ernst Beyeler, the Basel museum’s founders, Ernst and Hildy Beyeler, enjoyed with Picasso. gallery owner and art collector who together with his wife Hildy started In the 1960s, the Kunstmuseum Basel was showing two works from the Fondation Beyeler as a home for their private collection. Since the Picasso’s rose period—”The Two Brothers” and “Seated Harlequin”— 1940s, Beyeler had run the eponymous art gallery where around 16,000 that were on loan from Basel art collector Rudolf Staechelin. In 1967, works of arts (paintings, sculptures, and works on paper) passed however, the Staechelin family was planning to sell these paintings through his hands throughout his career. These works included master­ abroad because of financial problems, causing an uproar among art- pieces by many of the foremost artists of primarily modern art, includ- loving Baslers. Residents fought to keep the two paintings in town, ing numerous Picasso pieces. Beyeler established personal relation- launching a campaign with the slogan “All You Need Is Pablo.” Indivi­ ships with many of the artists and became friends with Picasso in the duals of all ages, including many young people; businesses; and orga- 1950s. When Beyeler visited Picasso in his studio in southern France in nizations collected CHF 2.4 million in big and small donations, and in 1966, the painter even allowed him to select more than 20 pieces for a referendum Baslers approved an additional CHF 6 million of public sale in his gallery. The Beyelers’ own collection included more than funds to acquire the two paintings. The purchase went through, ensur- 30 works (albeit none from the blue and rose periods) that are now part ing that the paintings stayed in Basel. Picasso himself was so moved by of the Fondation’s permanent collection.

4 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Picasso’s Blue and Rose Periods the world as well as some private collections. Participating museums include, among others, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, Tate Gallery in At the beginning of the 20th century, Picasso was a penniless artist London, Museu Picasso in Barcelona, Centro de Arte Reina Sofia in ­living first in Spain and then moving to Paris. The year 1901 marked a ­Madrid, Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts in Moscow, Metropolitan particularly decisive point in his career, especially after a friend, the Museum of Art in New York, National Gallery in Washington D.C., Art Spanish painter Carlos Casagemas, committed suicide. Picasso sank Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, and National Museum of Art in Osaka. The into a depression, withdrawing from his friends. While his earliest exhibit will be structured chronologically, exploring Picasso’s early works had been characterized by vibrant colors, he now began to paint painting career through examples of his treatment of human subjects. primarily in rather monochromatic shades of blue and blue-green. The The last paintings in the exhibit show an increasing deformation and topics were somber, expressing themes like poverty, loneliness, and fragmentation of the human figure, which heralds Picasso’s transition despair. Common subjects were the outcasts of society and solitary, into the new pictorial language of Cubism. These provide a link to the often emaciated figures. Important examples of these works include a Fondation Beyeler’s own earliest Picasso painting, a study from 1907. rather austere self-portrait from 1901; “The Old Guitarist” (1903); or Opening hours for the Fondation Beyeler are daily from 10:00–18:00 “The Frugal Repast” (1904), which depicts a blind man and a sighted (until 20:00 on Wednesdays). Tickets for this special exhibit are CHF 30 woman, seated at a nearly bare table. He also painted several post­ for adults (CHF 25 after 16:30), CHF 15 for students ages 16–30, and humous portraits of his deceased friend, which culminated in the al- free for children up to age 15. To avoid waiting lines at the ticket office, legorical painting “La Vie” (1903). With the paintings’ melancholic or you can book your tickets online via their website. To learn more about even depressing colors and subjects, audiences were not interested in the exhibit, special offers, and associated events, you can also sign up buying these works, further exacerbating his financial situation. for their “Picasso Newsletter” on their website. And if you are planning By 1904, Picasso’s mood improved, especially as he started a relationship a special family or business event during the exhibit’s run, you can even with French artist and model Fernande Olivier, who inspired many of his book your private evening event where you have the exhibit to yourself works. The predominating colors of his paintings became lighter, center- for a private tour, followed by drinks and snacks in their Café Parisien; ing on orange, pink, and even vibrant red hues. The themes also changed, for more information and enquiries, check their website or contact frequently featuring circus performers, clowns, and harlequins. Exam- them at [email protected] or by phone at 061-645-9915. ples from this period include “Acrobat on a Ball” (1905), “Acrobat’s Family With a Monkey” (1905), “Acrobat and Young Harlekin” (1905), or “The Two www.fondationbeyeler.ch/en/picasso Brothers” (1905–1906). This period lasted until about 1906, when Picasso began his exploration of Cubism and African-influenced­ art. Beyeler Collection / Picasso Panorama The Exhibit Until May 5 The Fondation Beyeler’s exhibit, which is a joint venture with the Musée Pablo Picasso, one of Picasso and Musée d’Orsay in Paris, includes some 80 paintings and the most important sculptures that have been assembled from renowned museums around and prolific artists of all time, exerted an un- paralleled influence on 20th-century modern art. To complement their special exhibit fo- cusing on Picasso’s early works, the Fon- dation Beyeler is also organizing a show en- titled “Beyeler Collec- tion / Picasso Panora- ma” that will explore other periods of Pi- casso’s oeuvre. It will feature 40 additional pieces by Picasso cre- ated between 1907 and 1972. The Fondation Beyeler owns more than 30 of his works, one of the largest and finest Picasso collections worldwide. “Picasso Panorama” is conceived as a tribute to the museum’s founders Ernst and Hildy ­Beyeler, for whom Picasso embodied the ideal artist. Over the decades, they sold more than 1,000 of his works, devoted numerous exhibitions to him in their gallery, and their relationship evolved into friendship. The paintings, works on paper, and sculptures they collected span the period from early Cubism to the late works. In this display of the collec- tion, they are complemented by permanent loans from, among others, the Anthax Collection Marx and the Rudolf Staechelin Collection. ­Before the viewer’s eye, the full panorama of visual worlds created by Picasso thus unfolds. Picasso’s key periods and themes are considered in depth across eight rooms: Cubism and Classicism, Surrealist tendencies, his models Marie-Thérèse Walter and Dora Maar, the war years, artistic predecessors who inspired him, drawings and prints, the late works, and the last years. www.fondationbeyeler.ch photo credits: pablo picasso, la vie (1903): © succession picasso / 2018, prolitteris, zürich, photo: © the cleveland museum of art; pablo picasso, acrobate et jeune arlequin (1905): © succession picasso / 2018, prolitteris, zürich; pablo picasso, famille de saltimbanques avec un singe (1905): © succession picasso / 2018, prolitteris, zürich, photo: © 2017, the metropolitan museum of art / February 2019 5 art resource / scala, florenz; pablo picasso, butte de femme au chapeau (dora) (1939): © succession picasso / 2018, prolitteris, zürich, photo: © peter schibli Events in Basel: February 2019

Clubfestival BScene February 1 and 2 BScene is an explosive and colorful snapshot of the regional music scene. For two days, bands will play rock, pop, electro, hip-hop, techno, jazz, reggae, world music, indie, and folk on 9 different stages in 7 club locations around Basel—a total of 56 concerts and many afterparties! The stylis- tic range of the festival attracts an eclectic crowd from the three-country region—in 2018, more than 7,000 visitors attended the festival! It is staged by a non-profit organization with the goal of promoting new or lesser-known bands. Tickets can be purchased in advance for one day (CHF 35, CHF 25 for students) or for two days (CHF 55/CHF 40) and allow entrance to all shows on that day, allowing you to customize your own festival; tickets bought on site are an additional CHF 4. Holders of the Colourkey pass only pay CHF 25 for one day and CHF 40 for two days. Visit the website for a complete list of shows, times, and locations. www.bscene.ch

Basler Jugendbücherschiff (Youth Book Ship) wants to marry his Until February 5 daughter to King Bumibol. At the cas- This unique annual book fair takes place on the MS Christoph Merian tle, he claims that boat that is docked at Schifflände. It houses about 1,500 new books for his Lieseli can spin kids and youths of all ages in many different languages. Each year, gold out of straw, thousands of children, adolescents, their parents, school classes, and giving the impover- teachers—essentially anyone interested in children’s literature—visit ished kingdom new the boat to leaf through the books on hand and discover new reading wealth. The king de- material. This year’s special theme—“Me? Me!”—focuses on a special mands proof and selection of new children’s and youth literature. They address topics locks the miller’s such as the many activities and interactions with social media with daughter overnight which the children and adolescents are confronted, as well as the in- in a chamber full of straw. The distressed Lieseli unexpectedly receives creasing individualization or adaptation already in childhood. The 2019 a visit from a small goblin who easily turns the straw into gold, but edition of the Jugendbücherschiff combines this self-centered virtual ­demands the future queen’s first child as a reward. When this child is to world with real encounters and books made of paper. Entrance is free. be baptized a year later, the little goblin returns to take the child. The www.edubs.ch/unterstuetzung/bibliothek/lesefoerderung/­ desperate queen asks for mercy, and the goblin offers her a way out—if jugendbuecherschiff she can find out his name, she can keep her daughter. The court’s staff then go deep into the forest and cunningly manage to discover the gob- lin’s name—Rumpelstiltskin. And so the king and queen can keep their Instrument Afternoon at the Music Academy princess, and Rumpelstiltskin stomps away in anger. This play will be February 2 performed in Basel dialect and is recommended for kids ages 4 and up; Musik-Akademie Basel is inviting all who are interested tickets are CHF 20–30 for kids, CHF 5 more for adults. in music, or in learning music, for an afternoon about the www.fauteuil.ch instruments from 14:00–17:00. There will be presen­ tations of all instruments and subjects taught at the Musikschule Basel and the Musikschule der Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, as well as the opportunity for Children’s Theater—Die Schöne und das Biest visitors to try out the instruments themselves. Teachers (Beauty and the Beast) and students will give short concerts starting at 14:20 February 2 and 3 in different rooms. Entrance is free. An arrogant young prince is transformed into an ugly hard-hearted www.musik-akademie.ch beast. He can only be transformed back if he manages to get someone to love him and want to share their life with him before the rose withers in the glass. Otherwise, he must remain a beast forever. This fantastic Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen fairy tale for families with kids ages 4 and up is told in Basel dialect; February 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, and 23 tickets are CHF 15 for kids ages 4–16, CHF 20 for adults, or CHF 10 and This season, the ensemble of Fauteuil is staging one of the best-known CHF 15 with the Familienpass. fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm, “Rumpelstilzchen.” A poor miller www.baslerkindertheater.ch

6 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Puppet Theater—The Little Witch Mid-Day Concert February 2 and 3 February 6 In a small house, in the middle of the witch forest, the little witch lives The Musikschule Basel offers lunch-time concerts for interested audi- with her friend, the raven Abraxas. She would like to dance around ences. This month’s concert is entitled “Mozärtliche Klänge" (The the fire with the big witches at the Walpurgis Night! But at 127 years sounds of Mozart) and features duos with the sister-instruments, viola old, she is clearly too young for that. So she wants to practice ­secretly. and violin. Mittagskonzerte take place at the Haus Kleinbasel (Reb- Not even Abraxas can stop her, but her defiance is quickly discovered gasse 70). Doors open at 12:00 with snacks; the concert starts at 12:30 and punished. But the little witch cannot be stopped. And that only a and lasts about 45 minutes. Entrance is free, but donations to offset bad witch is a really good witch, does not appeal to her anyway. She costs are graciously accepted. has learned a lot in the past year, including a few spells that the other www.musikschule-basel.ch witches will not soon forget. This story will be performed with mari- onettes in Basel dialect. The 90-minute show (including intermission) will start at 15:00 and is appropriate for families with kids ages 6 and Music Box for Kids up; tickets are CHF 20 for adults and CHF 15 for kids and students. February 6 www.bmtheater.ch On the first Wednesday of each month, the Musik-Akademie Basel of- fers a program for kids and adolescents entitled “Musik aus der Box” Tour of Theater Basel (Music out of the box). The mini concerts performed by members of the Musik-Akademie Basel are held on Wednesday afternoons at 15:30 at February 2 and 16 the Vera-Oeri Bibliothek, the beautiful library on the main campus of Behind the scenes at Theater Basel the clocks keep ticking day and the music academy. This month’s concert will be presented by Bettina night. The audiences often forget how complex a theater production Boysen. All are welcome, and entrance is free. ­really is. How are performances organized? How long do rehearsals for www.musik-akademie.ch a production last? What happens in the wardrobe department? And what do the workshops look like where all the stage sets are not only designed, but also built? On these guided tours of the theater, visitors Annual Testing of the Alarm System can see the everyday life of the theater outside of the performances up February 6 close. Take a look at the workshops and discover the secrets of If you suddenly hear alarm sirens going off on this stage machinery. Public guided tours of Theater Basel (in German) day starting at 13:30, there is no need to worry—this will take place from 14:00–15:30. Spaces are limited, so buy your tick- is just the annual Switzerland-wide test of all their ets in advance at the online ticket shop, at the box office, by phone emergency alarm systems that always takes place (061-295-1133) or by e-mail ([email protected]); cost of on the first Wednesday in February. These annual the tour is CHF 16 for adults and CHF 10 for students. tests serve to ensure that all residents of Switzer- www.theater-basel.ch land are well prepared should an emergency occur. You may hear several sets of alarms. The first set is Lake Verea—Paparazza Moderna the “general alarm.” This is a regular ascending and descending tone that lasts for 1 minute and is re- February 2 – July 7 peated once after a 2-minute interval. Where neces- Mexican artists Francisca Rivero-Lake and Carla Verea portray forgot- sary, the sirens can continue to be tested until 14:00. ten or hidden homes designed by renowned modernist architects. From 14:15–15:00 (at the latest), the “water alarm” signal is tested in They approach these buildings like paparazzi—unannounced and those areas that are in the proximity of dams. It consists of 12 low, spontaneous—to capture them in an unembellished, completely pri- ­continuous tones lasting 20 seconds each and repeated at 10-second vate state. The photographs, taken during quick and restless journeys, intervals. By 15:00 at the latest, the tests should be completed and the portray buildings by exiled architects Walter Gropius and Marcel function of a total of 7,200 sirens confirmed. If you hear these alarms Breuer in Lincoln, Massachusetts, or by Richard Neutra and R.M. outside of such test situations, all loudspeakers in public spaces, includ- Schindler in Los Angeles. The exhibition ”Paparazza Moderna,” which ing at bus and tram stops, as well as in trams and busses, will provide will take place at the Vitra Design Museum Gallery, not only documents information about the nature of the emergency and the appropriate architecture, but also provides a lively yet poetic look at their builders’ ­response. This information will also be scrolled on the digital displays at private lives. bus, tram, and train stations. If you hear the alarms while at home, they www.design-museum.de would alert you to turn on your radio for further information. www.babs.admin.ch/en/alarm/sirenentest.html Children’s Musical Play—Petruschka February 3 Two pianists enter the stage—the concert English Speaking Counseling ­Services can begin ... Virtuoso keys let fingers ring, for ­Adolescents, Adults and Couples. snapping lids challenge for a duel, and a pair of shoes make a waltz dance. What is Tara Gaffney, MS, LPCC played here, and who plays with whom? Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor This latest production by Gare des Enfants is an instrumental theater for people ages 6 Steinenbachgasslein 49, 4051 Basel and up with music by Igor Strawinsky (version for two pianos). The per- +41 78 646 97 44 formance will take place at the Gare du Nord, on the left side of the www.lifetransitionscounselingllc.com Badischer Bahnhof, at 11:00. Tickets are CHF 10 for kids, CHF 15 for adults, or CHF 30 for families (CHF 25 for families with the Familien- “Everything can always be different” – Alfred Adler pass); reserve your tickets online. www.garedunord.ch/gare-des-enfants/programm photo credits: © stefan ruest (bscene); © gaspard weissheimer (bscene); © pixabay (instrument afternoon); © theater fauteuil (children's theater); © gare des enfants (children's musical play); © kanton basel-stadt (annual testing) February 2019 7 Events in Basel: February 2019 (continued)

Cavalluna—World of Fantasy February 9 and 10 Europe’s most popular horse show is back for their biggest tour so far, now under its new name, Cavalluna. The program takes you on an ­unforgettable journey: The young Tahin manages to escape from his everyday life into a world where all his desires and fantasies finally come true. He meets the beautiful Naia, who he would like to be with in his real life as well. But it takes a lot to accomplish this difficult task: Tahin must learn to trust in fate to make his wishes come true. Will he succeed in finding happiness among the trials and tribulations of the two worlds? With the new show “Cavalluna—World of Fantasy," artistic director Klaus Hillebrecht builds on his previous successes and lets the most beautiful horse breeds in Europe shine in completely new dimensions. The dream- like scenes are accompanied by breathtaking performances, in which humans and animals work together in complete harmony to bring the wonderful story to life. There will be two performances on Saturday at 19:00 (doors open at 17:00) and on Sunday at 14:00. Tickets can be pur- chased through www.ticketcorner.ch and are CHF 70–125; kids ages 5–12 get a CHF 15 rebate, and kids under age 5 can sit on their parent’s lap (no ticket necessary). www.apassionata.com

Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Afternoon Tea at Villa Merian February 9, 10, 13, 16, 17, 20, 23, 24, and 27 February 13 and 27 The king and queen have wanted nothing more than to have a child. How does a classic afternoon tea with champagne, fragrant scones When their daughter is born, the king joyously hosts a feast and wants with clotted cream and strawberry jam, a filled cake stand with fresh to introduce her to the 13 wise witches. However, since he has only pastries, and of course tea at your discretion sound? This truly British 12 golden pralines, one witch must stay at home. After 11 of the witches tradition takes place every second and fourth Wednesday of the month have bestowed virtue, beauty, and many other things on the princess, at the Villa Merian from 16:00–18:00. Her Majesty, the Queen of Eng- the uninvited 13th witch enters and puts a curse on Sleeping Beauty. land, has already dined in the rooms of the Villa Merian. Cost is CHF 39 This wonderful fairy tale for families with kids ages 4 and up will be told per person; reserve at 061-311-2454 or [email protected]. in Basel dialect; tickets are CHF 18 for kids ages 4–16, CHF 23 for adults, www.villa-merian.ch or CHF 10 and CHF 18 with the Familienpass. www.baslerkindertheater.ch Family Promenade Concert—Kreutzersonate Music Concert and Children’s Workshop February 17 February 10 For this Promenade Concert, the Belcea Quartet, formed by musicians Begegnung mit Musik (Encounter with Music) is the name of this con- from the Sinfonieorchester Basel, will play Leoš Janáček’s String Quar- cert series that invites the public to enjoy a chamber music concert in a tet No. 1, based on Tolstoy’s “Kreutzer Sonata” (1923), and Benjamin cozy setting at the Museum Kleines Klingental. Each concert is accom- Britten’s String Quartet No. 3, op. 94 (1975). The concert is meant for panied by a music workshop for children ages 4–12 and families. The families; however, free childcare is also available. Older children are children listen to the beginning of the concert, experience the sound of welcome to join, and for children up to age 6, admission is free. You can the chamber music, and then join a workshop for a playful approach to also enjoy a brunch at the Bar du Nord from 10:00–14:00. Advance reg- music and musical instruments. In this concert, Ensemble Trio Plus, istration is required for the free childcare at 061-683-1313 or info@ consisting of violin, viola, cello, and marimba will take a musical tour garedunord.ch and/or for brunch at [email protected] (brunch is from East to West, playing works by Claude Debussy, Tomasz Golinski, CHF 20 for adults, reduced price for children). The concert begins at Ludwig van Beethoven, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Maurice Ravel, and Cyrill 11:00 at the Gare du Nord (left side of the Badischer Bahnhof); tickets Scott in a concert entitled “Faszination Klang.” The concert starts at cost CHF 30 for adults, CHF 20 for students, and CHF 8 for kids ages 17:00; tickets can be purchased from Bider & Tanner and are CHF 30 for 6–16 (discounts for Familienpass holders); they can be purchased on- adults (CHF 15 if accompanied by a child), free for kids (up to age 18). line or at Bider & Tanner. www.netzwerk-kammermusik.ch/1/home www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch

8 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Basel Composition Competition February 20–24

No person is more representative of Basel’s musical scene than Paul ­Sacher (1906–1999). He devoted himself tirelessly to the music of his

­century in his various roles as conductor, commissioner of new works

(eg, by Béla Bartók, Bohuslav Martinů, Igor Stravinsky, and Arthur Hon- egger), sponsor, and member of numerous guilds and institutions. In 1973, Sacher­ established the Paul Sacher Foundation, which gained Oops - I forgot to sign up international reputation as a leading research institution after acquir- for Kindermusik class! ing the estate of Igor Stravinsky and collections from Anton Webern and Bruno Maderna. In 2017/2018, years after his death, Sacher’s spirit was ­revived as composers of any age were invited to present new, non-­ premiered pieces for the first edition of “Basel Composition Competi- tion” (BCC), an international event open to the public. Because of its success, the competition is now being repeated. New pieces up to

20 minutes in length had to be submitted by August 2018. From these, the jury has shortlisted 13 pieces that will be performed this month by the Kammerorchester Basel (February 20 and February 23 at 18:00), Basel Sinfonietta (February 21 at 18:00), and Sinfonieorchester Basel (February 22 at 10:00). The three winning works will be performed at the final concert and award ceremony with all three orchestras on Feb- ruary 24 at 11:00. The winners will be awarded monetary prizes total- Don’t fret – our new semester ing CHF 100,000. Tickets for the concerts can be purchased through is starting this week. www.­kulturticket.ch. www.baselcompetition.com/eng Baby classes: Monday, Tuesday, Friday Toddler classes: Monday, Thursday, Friday Pre-schoolers: Wednesdays and Saturdays Jazz Concert at the Tinguely Museum Mixed ages: Thursdays and Saturdays February 22 Come along and join the fun! From 16:00–18:00 on the last Friday of every month, top jazz performers are giving concerts in the space dedicated to the current exhibition at www.kidsmusic.ch the Tinguely Museum, providing a musical highlight and a point of focus. The concert on this day will feature Karl Seglem & Christoph Stiefel Group’s “Monsterjazz” and is free with admission to the museum. www.roche-n-jazz.ch

Anton Lorenz—From Avant-Garde to Industry February 22 – May 19 To mark the 100th anniversary of the Bauhaus, the ­Vitra Design Museum is focusing on entre­ preneur and designer Anton Lorenz. In 1925, ­Marcel Breuer was the first to use tubular steel to construct furniture at the Bauhaus in a move that would revolutionize modern living. Lorenz realized the material’s potential early on, and his deft use of patents and founding of new companies meant that he would soon become a key figure in tubu- lar steel furniture’s future success. The exhibition at the Vitra Schaudepot will present important documents from his bequest as well as tubular steel furniture by Marcel Breuer, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Le Corbusier, and other designers in a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the avant-garde. www.design-museum.de

Family Concert—Hix-Hex February 24 Locked boxes in the attic—who will help with the spell? This is a story told with music performed with recorders—from the tiniest 15 cm dwarf recorder to the 2 m giant sub-bass recorder. Families with kids ages 4 and up are invited to come along for the journey. Entrance is free for stu- dents of the Musik-Akademie and youth under age 20; tickets for adults are CHF 15 or CHF 5 with Familienpass. The family concert will take place at the Neue Saal of the Musik-Akademie Basel, starting at 11:00. www.musik-akademie.ch photo credits: © cavalluna; © vitra design museum, photo: jürgen hans, www.objektfotograf.ch (anton lorenz) February 2019 9 Fun Outings: Beyond Basel

Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Daytime snowshoeing through a beautiful snow-covered landscape is an invigorating and yet peaceful experience. However, snowshoeing in the calm of night, with the glistening moonlight reflecting off the snow is a particularly magical experience you won’t soon forget. There are several places that offer guided nighttime or moonlight snowshoeing excursions, followed or preceded by a warming fondue dinner (turn to page 12 and 13 to learn all about Swiss cheese fondue).

Reigoldswil, BL (February 1, 8, 15, and 22). Winter magic awaits you at hat, mittens, scarf, headlamp or flashlight, small snack, and a thermos Wasserfallen near Reigoldswil, about 30 minutes from Basel. Enjoy a with warm tea. The snowshoe tour costs CHF 80 for adults and CHF 40 moonlit gondola ride up to Wasserfallen. From there, the guided snow- for kids up to age 16, which will be collected at the bar before setting off. shoe hike takes you through the winter landscape to the cozy mountain The price includes the guided tour, cheese fondue (excluding drinks), restaurant Vogelberg or Waldweide. After a delicious evening meal or and taxi ride back to Spiez around 22:30. Snowshoes can be rented for fondue you return to Wasserfallen, where you can catch the gondola or CHF 15 per person; let them know at registration if you require this toboggan back down to the valley base station. On these evenings, the ­service. Note that the event will be cancelled in case of bad weather; call gondola will run from 18:00–23:30 and costs CHF 15 for adults and 033-654-1410 for an automated message regarding cancellation. www. CHF 9 for kids ages 6–15 (one-way) or CHF 18 and CHF 11 (return trip). aeschi-tourismus.ch/aktivitaeten/wintersport/schneeschuhlaufen/­ ­Toboggans can be rented for CHF 5.50 (until 22:45), and snowshoes and gefuehrte-schneeschuhtouren.html sticks can be rented for CHF 8.80 for adults and CHF 5.50 for kids; the guided snowshoe hike requires pre-registration at 061-941-1820. The Atzmännig in Goldingen, SG (February 16 and March 23). On this full- maximum 1.5-hour tour with a 300-meter difference in elevation is de- moon night, guests will be taken on a 2–3 hour snowshoe tour around pendent on snow and weather conditions and is suitable for fairly fit the Atzmännig, an area near the border between St. Gallen and Zürich. people ages 12 years and up. www.wasserfallenbahn.ch No previous snowshoeing experience is necessary; however, with an elevation difference of about 400 meters, a basic fitness level is re- Aeschi near Spiez, BE (February 16 and March 23). On this 3-hour quired. The price of CHF 77 per person includes the guided tour, apéro guided snowshoe tour in the mountains above Lake Thun, near Spiez, drink, fondue in the Restaurant Atzmännig Lodge or in the Brustenegg- you will ascend on a scenic ridge with fairy-tale views, quickly leaving the Hütte, and snowshoe rental; cost without snowshoe rental is CHF 65. lights of the last houses behind you. The trek is a moderate snowshoe The meeting point is at the Talstation Sesselbahn (lower station chair- hike with a few short passages in steep terrain. The 400-meter ascent lift) at 18:15. The tour is weather dependent and requires a minimum of and descent will be followed by a delicious fondue in a cozy mountain ski eight persons (singles or small groups). Be sure to wear good hiking hut. Meeting place is at the Aeschiried Schulhaus at 17:00. To join the shoes and warm winter clothes (no jeans). Register at least three days tour on February 16, register at least three days in advance at 033-654- in advance at 055-284-6434 or directly online. Make a full weekend ex- 1424 or [email protected] (minimum four people). Spiez can be cursion out of it and consider overnighting at the Atzmännig Lodge or reached directly by car in about 1 hour and 40 minutes, and there is park- in one of the “Holziglus” (wood igloo PODhouses). Atzmännig can be ing directly in front of the meeting place. It is recommended, however, to reached in about 1 hour 45 minutes from Basel by car. www.atzmaennig. take public transport, arriving in Aeschiried by train. You should bring/ ch/de/winter/agenda/vollmond-schneeschuhtouren/ wear snowshoes, sticks, good hiking shoes/boots, snowsuit (no jeans), Muotathal, SZ (February 17, 18, 19; March 19, 20, and 21). Experience an unforgettable night of snowshoeing under professional guidance through primeval snow-coated spruce forests with secluded clearings, snowy fields, silent streams, and frozen pools. On provided snowshoes you can walk and explore the unique natural landscape around the ­Muotathal by moonlight under the stars. Afterwards, participants will be treated to a fondue dinner in the cozy guesthouse of the Husky Lodge. The snowshoe excursion starts at the Husky-Lodge in Muotathal at 18:30 and will take 2.5 hours, followed by a fondue party. Cost is CHF 98 for adults and CHF 68 for kids ages 6–16, which includes transfer to and from the meeting point, guided snowshoe hike, snowshoe rental, poles, and headlamp, as well as the following fondue dinner (drinks not in- cluded). Solid shoes and warm, weather-appropriate winter clothes are recommended, as is a backpack with warm drinks. Muotathal is in can- ton Schwyz and can be reached in 1 hour 50 minutes from Basel by car. www.erlebniswelt.ch/aktiv-erleben/abenteuer-sport/abenteuer- sport-winter/vollmond-schneeschuhtour/

10 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Snow-Sculpture Festival ends—Saas-Fee’s Ice Pavilion offers an awe-inspiring glimpse into the Bernau, Germany fascinating world of eternal ice. Visitors to the ice grotto can experi- ence an avalanche simulation, with lighting effects and a shock wave February 7–10 that reverberates through the entire body. The Ice Pavilion is open dai- For the third year, Bernau, in the Black Forest region of Germany, ly from 9:30–15:00 (closed mid-April to early June); entrance costs ­becomes a meeting place for lovers of imaginative snow sculptures. CHF 20 for adults and CHF 12 for children ages 6–15. Tickets are not Eight artist teams from the United States, Switzerland, Italy, France, included in the ski pass; they can be purchased at all ticket desks of the and Germany will transform a small plateau in the middle of the Ber- Saastal Cableway in Saas-Fee. nau ski area into an extraordinary open-air gallery. An Egyptian sphinx, www.saas-fee.ch/en/mountains/activities-on-the-mountain/ice-pavilion a baby dragon just hatching out of the egg, the Bernauer Witch, or ­Masha and the Bear—experience for yourself how the third Black For- est Snow Sculpture Festival will transform gigantic snow cubes into truly magical works of art within four days. While the artists are busily working away in their outdoor workshops, there will be a wide range of family-friendly activities in the ski resort and tent on the festival grounds. The artists will begin sculpting their magical works starting at 14:30 on Thursday, working through the day-time hours on Friday and Saturday. Saturday evening will be filled with extraordinary events, including an impressive ski show, a snowcat parade, torchlight down- hill skiing, and fireworks. The artists will put the finishing touches on their masterpieces on Sunday morning, which will be followed by the haunting sounds of an alphorn ensemble at 11:30 and a historical ski group at noon that will show skiing like in the old days. The sculptures will remain on site for viewing after the festival is over, as long as weather permits. The open-air gallery for the festival is located above the village Innerlehen. Free parking is available at the Kurhaus car park. Admission to the open-air gallery is free, but the ski show on Sat- urday evening costs € 6 for adults; tickets are available at the entrance. Bernau is located about 1 hour from Basel by car. If you plan to ski, consider booking at least two nights in a participating hotel to receive Windwerk your lift rides and trail use with the inclusive guest card for free. Winterthur, ZH www.schneeskulpturen-schwarzwald.de Are you an adrenaline junkie but not too keen on heights? Maybe you have always wanted to try skydiving but wanted to get a feel for what you would be getting into first? Now you can do so at the first indoor skydiving facility in German-speaking Switzerland. Windwerk, with the most modern wind-tunnel technology, just opened in December in Winterthur, about 80 minutes from Basel. The all-glass column with a diameter of more than 4 meters can generate a wind speed of up to 280 km/h, a speed that simulates free fall. Participants of any age can experience the dream of flying, the anticipation of weightlessness, the tension before the jump, and the indescribable feeling of free fall. Only three conditions preclude flying: a body weight of over 120 kg (265 lbs), pregnancy, and severe neck and shoulder problems. Your first visit will take roughly 1–2 hours. After check-in, you will take part in a personal- ized training session, where an instructor will explain the basics of Mittelallalin Ice Pavilion free-fall simulation, such as ideal body position and hand commands/ Saas-Fee, VS sign language. Then it is time to gear up. Participants will be provided Saas-Fee is located close to the glaciers of the Dom and the Allalin- with all the equipment needed, including a jumpsuit, helmet, goggles, horn in the Swiss Alps, near the border with Italy. In addition to being a and earplugs (the tunnel can be louder than a rock concert!). First-time popular location for climbing in the summer season, it is a beloved flyers will take turns flying solo, one after the other, with your flight winter sports destination because of its instructor teaching you to maneuver your body. Each individual flight many opportunities for skiing, snow- lasts 1 minute, which is actually longer than a parachute jump from boarding, snowshoeing, canyon climb- 4000 meters. Complete newbies are recommended to book a 2-flight ing, and ice climbing. If you happen to be session (CHF 89), a 4-flight session is recommended for those who skiing in the region this winter, be sure want to learn the finer details of flying (CHF 159), and ambitious flyers to visit the magical Mittelallalin Ice Pa- who want to perfect their skills are recommended to book a 6-flight vilion. High above Saas-Fee, at an alti- session (CHF 219). They also offer pair and group flying; all sessions tude of 3,500 m, lies the entrance to the can be booked directly online. heart of the Fee Glacier, the 5,500 m³- If experiencing the wind tunnel still seems daunting, you can also go on wide eighth wonder of the world. The fa- a virtual flight where you can experience the sensation of flying like a mous Ice Pavilion, which is a frozen bird through one of two distinctly different worlds. You can fly as an grotto carved into the Fee Glacier, was eagle over 55 km2 of New York or sail as a pterodactyl around raging completely revamped in the spring of waterfalls, dive into rivers, and discover numerous dinosaur species. 2016. It has guarded the secrets of Saas The flight simulator “Birdly,” a combination of virtual reality, robotics, glaciers for more than a millennium, but and simulation technology, gives you a special full-body experience. now the story of the 2,000-year-old ice is Let yourself be enchanted! being rewritten. Mystery, myths, and leg- www.windwerk.ch photo credits: © aeschi tourismus, roob laan (snowshoeing and fondue); © pierluigi orler(snow sculpture festival); © ppr saastal tourismus ag, bruno schaub (mittelallalin ice pavilion); ­ © windwerk ag, photo: www.lauriaapro.com (windwerk) February 2019 11 Swiss Culture and Traditions

Cheese Fondue

It can hardly get more Swiss than eating cheese fondue with a group of eating together from one pot over a warm cozy fire became a Swiss friends in a chalet after a day of winter-sports activities in the snow- mountain winter tradition that eventually migrated down the slopes to covered mountains. This highly social activity of feasting together from the villages and towns below. a shared pot of bubbling melted cheese is as ubiquitous in Switzerland The first mention of such a dish dates back to antiquity, when Homer’s as chocolate and watches. But how did this practice originate? “Iliad” described a mixture of grated goat cheese, wine, and wheat The word “Fondue” is the feminine past participle of the French verb flour melted over an open fire. The earliest known fondue recipe, how- “fondre” (to melt). Used as a noun, it has become synonymous with a ever, came from a cookbook published in Zürich in 1699 entitled “Käss dish of cheese melted in white wine in a communal caquelon—an mit Wein zu kochen” (To cook cheese with wine), which called for grated earthenware pot favored for its even heat and its ability to retain heat or cut-up cheese to be melted in wine and eaten with bread pieces that so that the meal can be enjoyed over a long period of time. The cheese were dipped in the mixture. The introduction of cornstarch to Switzer- is kept bubbling over a portable heat source (réchaud), such as a can- land in 1905 probably contributed to the popularity of cheese fondue by dle or spirit lamp, and traditionally eaten by dipping bread into the giving it a smoother and more stable consistency. But cheese fondue cheese using long-stemmed forks. became truly popular in the 1930s, when the “Schweizerische Kä- seunion” (Swiss Cheese Union)—a cartel of cheese makers who set the price of milk, limited production, and restricted the types of cheeses Swiss producers could make—declared it the national dish of Switzer- land, as a way of increasing cheese consumption. They also created pseudo-regional recipes as part of the “spiritual defense of Switzer- land.” When rationing ended following World War II, the Swiss Cheese Union continued its marketing campaign, sending fondue sets to mili- tary regiments and event organizers across Switzerland, cementing cheese fondue as a symbol of Swiss unity. But fondue was unknown in America, the world's largest cheese market, until 1964, when it was introduced at the Swiss Pavilion's Alpine restaurant of the New York World's Fair. This kicked off a food fad across the country that led the sweet-toothed Americans to create the first chocolate fondue. The term “fondue” has since been used to describe other dishes where food is dipped into a pot of hot liquid, including the French Fondue Bourgui- gnonne (beef cubes cooked in hot oil) and Fondue Chinoise (thin slices of meat or vegetables cooked in hot bouillon), both served with a variety of dipping sauces.

Here in Switzerland, the Swiss Cheese Union continued to aggressively promote cheese fondue, and together with the advertising agency Gisler+Gisler in the 1950s, came up with the slogan “Fondue isch guet Today, you will readily find cheese fondue as an après-ski snack or meal and git e gueti Luune” (Swiss German for “Fondue is good and gives a on most mountain-hut tables in Switzerland, as well as on the menu good mood”), which is now so well-known that it is simply referred to cards of Swiss restaurants in cities year-round. It originated, however, by its acronym, FIGUGEGL, that you will see displayed in restaurants in the secluded mountain regions of Switzerland as a way for the Alpine that serve fondue in the Germanic region of Switzerland. Whether a farmers to utilize stale bread and hard cheese in the colder winter testament to the power of a good advertising campaign, and/or to the months, when access to fresh food was scarce. They found that if they appeal of the dish itself, the Swiss eat on average 1.3 kg of fondue per melted the dried-out cheese in wine seasoned with garlic and herbs, person per year. With an average portion measuring roughly 200 g per they could make a meal of dipping their stale bread in the flavorful person, that translates to roughly six fondue meals annually, keeping cheese mixture, which would allow the bread to soften. This practice of the dairy farmers and cheese producers of Switzerland very busy!

12 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com What Goes Into a Cheese Fondue? Dipping Items As the blend of cheeses included in the fondue is entirely regional, With most cheese fondues, cubes of bread and potatoes are the most there are nearly as many recipes as there are mountain villages. In the popular dipping items. Bearing in mind that an average fondue portion Appenzell region, cheese fondue consists mainly of Appenzell cheese, is roughly 200 g per person (60 g of which are fat) or about 800 calories, whereas in the region of Fribourg, the fondue is normally made with you can make fondue night a much healthier meal by adding “lighter their creamy local cheese, Vacherin fribourgeois. Moitié-moitié (half- and heart-healthier” dipping items, such as blanched broccoli, cauli- half) is a 50/50 blend of the mild and creamy Vacherin fribourgeois and flower, and asparagus; mushrooms; fruit pieces like apple slices, the spicier Gruyère. In Valais, you will often see the addition of raclette grapes, pineapple cubes, and my favorite, pear chunks—the combina- cheese to your mixture of Vacherin and Gruyère, and in canton Bern, tion of sweet and savory is simply divine! Basically, anything that goes Emmentaler is often part of the blend. In central Switzerland, Gruyére with cheese and can stay on a fondue fork when dipped is fair game. is mixed with Emmental and Sbrinz, whereas in the eastern parts of Switzerland, you are more likely to find Gruyère mixed with the more On the Side aromatic Appenzeller and Tilsiter. The cheese you choose to include is As cheese fondue is a heavy meal, it is best served with a side of salad, a matter of taste—if you like it mild and creamy, stick to Vacherin, Em- crunchy vegetables, or pickled vegetables, such as peppers, gherkins, mental, and raclette cheese, but if you enjoy the tangy bite of a stronger and pearl onions. The accompanying beverage is most commonly dry cheese, go heavier on the Appenzell and Gruyère varieties. And if you white wine (still or sparkling), but apple cider, apple juice (for kids), and are unsure of your guests’ tastes, consider the moitié-moitié as a good black tea such as Earl Grey are also surprisingly good complements. middle-of-the-road choice. Some say that a side shot of Kirsch helps to digest the cheese, but a 2010 study conducted by gastroenterologists at the University of Zürich showed that the Kirsch actually causes the cheese to clump in the stomach, slowing digestion! If you are itching for a magical Swiss winter experience and your mouth is now watering for cheese fondue, check out the “Beyond Basel” ­section on the preceding pages for some great suggestions on snow- shoeing and fondue nights.

Fun Fondue Traditions: → Be careful to secure your bread to your fondue fork before it takes the plunge into the cheese fondue, as it is an unwritten rule that the man who loses his bread in the pot must foot the bill for the meal or buy a round of drinks and the woman who drops her bread cube in the bubbling cheese must kiss all of the men at the table. → The best part of eating the fondue is at the very bottom of the pot—the thin crust of toasted (not burnt) cheese is called “la ­religieuse” (the nun) in French or “Grossmutter” (grandmother) in German, and is customarily offered to the guest of honor.

Basic Cheese Fondue Recipe: (4 persons) 1 garlic clove (halved) 800 g grated cheese (in your choice of blend) 300 ml dry white wine (Chasselas, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Prosecco… and even beer!) 1 Tablespoon cornstarch 1 Tablespoon Kirsch (cherry schnapps—alternatives can include ­cognac, gin, or other schnapps) Optional: A pinch of spice to taste (black pepper, cayenne pepper, smoked ­paprika, nutmeg) Herbs (chives, parsley, sage, rosemary, mountain flowers) Other flavor additions (truffles, chopped garlic, minced hot peppers, mustard, lemon juice, tomato purée, and capers) Directions Cut the garlic clove in half and rub it on the inside walls of the caquelon (fondue pot). On the stove at low heat, heat wine and cornstarch to- gether in the pot and slowly add the grated cheese while stirring to melt it evenly (experts claim that whipping it will a silver fork makes it fluffier than stirring). Stir in the Kirsch and any spice, herbs, or addi- tional flavorings (if using). Place the pot over the heat source on the fondue stand and serve with your choice of dipping items.

photo credits: © swiss-image / remy steinegger; © swiss-image / marc-andré marmillod; © dietrich varaklis; © swiss-image / stefan hunziker February 2019 13 Markets and Fairs

A Look Back Bye -Bye MUBA! In 1916, Basel’s government decided to initiate a “Mustermesse”—a fair where traders present “Muster” (samples) of their products to consum- February 8–17 ers, who can then order the products and get them delivered to their homes. This represented a change from traditional consumer fairs, Switzerland’s oldest consumer fair, the MUBA (Mustermesse Basel) will where traders would bring the finished products for consumers to pur- be opening their doors for the last time this February, ending a more chase and take home directly. The first “Schweizer Mustermesse” was than 100-years-old tradition and a highlight in Basel’s annual calendar. held April 15–29, 1917 at the Stadtcasino and a building belonging to the The reason is simple—a steep decline in visitors and sales in recent old Badischer Bahnhof, which at the time was located at today’s Messe- years. In 2018, more than 120,000 people from Switzerland, southern platz. Despite taking place during World War I, it attracted 800 exhibi- Germany, and Alsace visited the MUBA, and slightly more than half of tors that presented only Swiss goods to the more than 300,000 visitors. them made a purchase, spending on average CHF 614 each, for a total Since then, the fair has taken place every spring. of about CHF 41 million spent. Despite these seemingly impressive The Mustermesse subsequently moved entirely into mostly wooden numbers, they represent a substantial decline from previous years. At buildings at Messeplatz, which were completely destroyed by fire in the height of the MUBA in the 1960s and 1970s, visitor numbers ex- 1923. As a result, new concrete exhibition halls were built, with the ceeded 1 million per year, and even in 2010 more than 300,000 people main permanent Halle 1 at Messeplatz completed in 1926. A second visited the fair. Since then, visitor numbers have been dropping, and the hall followed in 1954—the characteristic square building with the round organizers concluded that the existing consumer fair format no longer interior courtyard (Rundhof) and the large clock above the entrance fits with today’s consumer behavior. Internet-based stores that are ac- that still houses the MUBA today. A third hall followed by 1965. The new cessible around the clock and online shopping from vendors around building by Basel architects Herzog & de Meuron that replaces and the world have replaced the fairs that allowed visitors to learn about connects the previous Halls 1 and 3 and spans a section of the Messe- new trends and to see or test new products. Even new concepts that platz was inaugurated in 2013. were added in the last couple of years, such as the Lego® exhibit BRICK- The Mustermesse underwent numerous changes throughout its his- LIVE, could not reverse the downward trend. As a result, the organizers tory and has spawned several specialty fairs, including a fair for the at MCH Messe Basel decided to end this century-old tradition with the wood-processing industry (Holz) in the 1950s, the BASELWORLD watch MUBA 2019. and jewelry fair in 1973, and the building and construction fair Swiss- bau in 1974. With the demise of the original Mustermesse, these spe- cialty fairs will continue the MUBA’s legacy.

14 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com court area will have something for even the pickiest family members, and many vendors will offer specialty foods and wines for tasting.

Like its predecessors, this final MUBA edition will include several special highlights: → The featured guest canton this year is Appenzell. Visitors will be able to taste its culinary specialties, such as Appenzeller Bier (beer), Ap- penzeller Käse (cheese), and Appenzeller Alpenbitter (an alcoholic drink containing 42 different herbs and spices), as well as observe some of its traditions or purchase characteristic artisanal products. → The guest country this year is Japan, with an exhibit displaying ex- amples of Japanese aesthetics in the areas of gardening, architec- ture, and art. Other pavilions will focus on Japanese history and na- ture, traditional tea ceremonies, and mangas. → A special section will focus on the Basel Fasnacht, where, among other highlights, visitors can watch how one of the traditional huge Fasnacht lanterns is created. → Another section of interest to the whole family will feature two groups of animals—insects and lizards. Visitors will be able to ­admire about 70 lizards in 16 large terrariums and learn about their strange colors and shapes and about their adaptation to and sur- Some Highlights Throughout the Years vival strategies in a range of environments, from rainforests to tun- dras and deserts. Other showcases will present insects that have 1939–1945: The MUBA continues despite World War II going on in all never been seen in Europe before. surrounding countries. In 1939, the fair presents more than 1,100 ex- hibitors, all of whom still offer only Swiss products. → tunBasel.ch 2019 allows kids and adolescents to discover the world of technology and natural sciences in a playful manner. Numerous 1966: The 50th edition of the MUBA for the first time attracts more than well-known institutions will present a wide range of experiments 1 million visitors. and activities to stimulate their young visitors’ interest in these 1972: For the first time, vendors from other European countries par- fields. (www.tunbasel.ch) ticipate in the MUBA. → The section “Original Regional” focuses on culinary delights from 1997: The Basel brewery Unser Bier is founded at the MUBA. regional producers in an attractive market atmosphere with a vari- 2000: Under the slogan “Visit the mother of all fairs," the MUBA bill- ety of stalls and eateries. boards feature the picture of a naked, pregnant woman, inciting some → The Platz der Begegnung (Site for Encounters) in Halle 2.0 offers controversy. opportunities for interactions between, and entertainment for, all 2013: The inclusion of stands by both the Scientology Church and the age groups, from youths to seniors. assisted-suicide organization Exit spark some controversy. → At the Cannabis Village, visitors can learn about the medicinal and 1917–2019: Throughout the 103-year history of the MUBA, the company other useful properties of the cannabis (hemp) plant beyond its in- Mauler, a family-run business based in Môtiers (NE) that since 1829 has toxicating properties. (www.cannabisvillage.ch) produced sparkling wines, has never missed an edition of the fair! The Feldschlösschen brewery has also participated more than 90 times. Practical Information The MUBA takes place in Halle 2 at Messeplatz. Opening hours are 10:00–19:00 for Halle 2.0, 2.1, and the Rundhof, and 11:00–20:00 for Halle 2.2. On the last day, all halls are only open until 18:00. As a spe- cial gift to visitors for this last edition of the MUBA, entrance is free on all days. www.muba.ch

The MUBA 2019 At this year’s MUBA, more than 200 vendors from a wide range of areas will present products ranging from appliances, art, clothing, food, gar- den, health and well-being, and home furnishings, to jewelry, leather, recreation, sports, wines, and much more. Local service providers such as organizations, public services, and churches will also introduce their offers. There will also be daily activities, such as cooking shows in the food atelier and talks and music programs on the show stage. The food photo credit: © mch group ag, messe basel February 2019 15 Markets and Fairs (continued)

market stands in parallel to the Markthalle’s Streetfood Saturdays. In addition to the usual food stands, where you will find delicacies from around the world, Streetfood Saturdays offer culinary specialties in small portions for a low price of CHF 5, allowing you to taste a variety of different dishes. The on-site bar serves drinks that will certainly complement any dish you choose. www.altemarkthalle.ch

Basler Münzenmesse 2019 (Coin Fair) February 9 The international Basel Coin Fair is for those who are fascinated by classical numismatics. For the 48th year, numerous exhibitors will be presenting Olive Oil Market coin novelties from February 2 all over the world, Euro and collector issues, paper Olive oil is a natural product and an important ingredient in today’s money, tokens, original types of health-conscious and gourmet cooking. Together with wine, olive oil is currencies, historical securities, one of the oldest foods and has great importance in the history of the numismatic literature, and accessories. In Mediterranean countries. Unfortunately, we often know too little about addition, visitors to the Basel Coin Fair have the opportunity to buy, sell, the olive oils we buy—their origins, treatment, and the composition are and exchange coins and medals of all eras and countries. This interna- kept secret. Almost all oil bottles on the supermarket shelves have tional coin fair will take place at the Congress Center Basel from 9:00– flowery paraphrases on their labels, but these often only serve to con- 16:00; entrance costs CHF 8. fuse. The olive oil market at the Alte Markthalle strives to give this liquid gold the attention it deserves. At this special market, you can learn more www.messeninfo.de/Basler-Muenzenmesse-M2797/Basel.html about olive oil directly from the producers. You can taste top-quality oils and discover for yourself what a good olive oil is all about. Producers Repair Market from Greece, Italy, and other regions, including Salfit (Palestine), will February 16 accompany you on a journey through the Mediterranean. The olive oil The Bauteilbörse at Dreispitz (Barcelonastrasse 4 in Münchenstein) is market will be held from 10:00–15:00 at the Markthalle, just a few min- the location for this one-of-a-kind market from 11:00–14:00. If you have utes’ walk from the Basel SBB. And while you are there, you can also items that need repair, such as small appliances, chairs, clothing, com- pick up some fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, cheeses, yoghurt, eggs, puters, or toys, don’t throw them away but bring them to this market, and many more delicacies at their regular Saturday market that takes where volunteers will be on hand to try and repair them. This initiative place at the same time. Also on this day, producers from the nearby re- is not only great for the environment but is also a nice way to meet gion of Jura will present their specialties, traditions, and food culture people and chat over some cake and coffee. Alternatively, if you are with freshly and regionally produced wares to complete your market ex- good at crafts and enjoy working with fabric, metal, needles and thread, perience. soldering irons, and/or wood, perhaps you would like to volunteer some www.altemarkthalle.ch time on that day to help fix items. You can sign up for this task on their website. Brand #2—Swiss Spirits www.reparier-bar.ch February 1 A lot is happening in the Swiss distillery scene. Traditional companies with high quality standards meet young, innovative distillers. Gin, whis- key, vodka, and liqueurs are joining the versatile range of traditional ­varietal fruit brandies and local specialties. Spirits of Swiss provenance are trendy and convince consumers with their high quality. At the Brand #2, Swiss distillers will showcase their products and their craft. The focus will be on quality: class before mass, so that there will be enough time for visitors to explore the individual distillers. This special event will feature products from 22 Swiss distillers as well as providers of complementary products. It will take place from 18:00–22:00 in the Wohnzimmer (main event room) of the Markthalle, just a few minutes’ walk from the Basel SBB. http://www.altemarkthalle.ch

Night Flea Market and Streetfood Fair February 2 Games and Toy Market Everyone knows that you need to get up early to get the best finds at a February 17 flea market, right? If this is a problem for you, then here is the solu- “People do not stop playing because they grow old, they get old be- tion—on this evening, you can come to the Markthalle, a few minutes’ cause they stop playing!” (Oliver Wendell Holmes). At this games and walk from the Basel SBB, to browse their “Nachtflohmarkt” (night flea toy market you will find board games, card games, and social games as market). From 18:00 until late in the night, it will feature numerous flea well as toys for all ages. The Markthalle in Basel, just a few minutes’

16 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Did You Know? walk from the Basel SBB, will be the place to buy and sell used baby toys, building blocks, cars, children’s books, puzzles, toys, wooden toys, Fasnacht (Carnival) costumes and masks, and much more. Come from 11:00–16:00 to find well-priced toys suitable for your whole fam- ily. If you have unneeded games and toys, they can sell them for you, but you will need to register with them by February 10; 70% of the Basel offers an interesting mix of modern architecture; historical proceeds go to you and 30% to the organizers at the Markthalle. buildings; and quaint cobblestone streets riddled with artistic www.altemarkthalle.ch sculptures, curious statues, colorful murals, historical fountains, intricately detailed mailboxes, and other such works of art. A short Flohmarkt auf dem Dach (Flea Market on the Roof) walk through any part of town will have you discovering interesting and artistic gems at every corner. February 24 How well do you know Basel? Check out the “Where in Basel?” This flea market and collectors’ fair is the largest in northwest Switzer- picture in each issue and if you recognize the location you have a land, with about 200 stands and 10,000 visitors. It will be held on the roof chance to win a fabulous prize. If you think you know where this of the Interio in Pratteln from 8:30–15:00. The venue is completely cov- month’s picture was taken, send us an email at info@basellife. ered, so it can take place in any weather. Here you can find agriculture, com with the subject title “Where in Basel?” by Tuesday, Febru- antiques, appliances, arts and crafts, bicycles, camping, clothes, coins, ary 5. Among the respondents, we will raffle off a copy of the new collectibles, electronics, games, garden, household, jewelry, motorcycle book “Trailing Spouse—Reimagined,” a copy of the new “prozent- clothing, musical instruments, sports, stamps, tools, watches, and so buch Basel,” and two pairs of tickets for the Groove Now concert much more. on February 23. We will then post the solution on our Facebook www.flohmarktaufdemdach.ch page (www.facebook.com/basellifemagazine). Good Luck! Solution to last month’s “Where in Basel?”: The image showed the imaginative Christmas decorations at the Globus department store Expat Expo on Marktplatz. Thank you to everyone who participated and congrat- February 10 ulations to all our winners! This year marks the 13th year of the ­annual Expat Expo, a f­orum aimed at enhancing the lives of the English-speaking residents of Switzerland. The Basel edition will feature around 80 exhibitors who will provide information on schools, daycare centers, lan- guage schools, children’s acti­ vities, expat organizations, legal and financial services, religious organizations, foods, specialty items, and much more. There will be cheese and whisky tastings, and the 2MUCHFUN team will be on hand with face painting, balloon sculpting, and a free bouncy castle for the kids. There will be several prizes and gifts to raffle off, and you can ­enter the free Expat-Expo door-prize drawing to win one of several gift certificates from Globus. Come and meet the staff of Basel Life ­Magazine—we will be at Booth 96! The Expat Expo will run from 11:00– 17:00 at the Congress Center of the Messe Basel. Entrance is free, and all are welcome! For more info go to their website. www.expat-expo.info/basel

photo credits: © pixabay (olive oil market, coin fair, games and toy market); © christine pesold (where in basel) February 2019 17 February 2019

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY

Ongoing Events in February Important Numbers: Kinderspital, Calendar Key: SOS: 112 Spitalstrasse 33, Basel (for more info refer to this section) The Young Picasso—Blue and Rose Periods Police: 117 061-704-1212 Feature Event Fondation Beyeler, Riehen Fire Department: 118 Afterhours Pharmacy, Events in Basel February 3 – May 26 A Hand in Need / Suicide Hotline 143 Petersgraben 3, Basel Beyond Basel Ambulance: 144 061-263-7575 Markets & Fairs Lake Verea—Paparazza Moderna Poison Center: 145 Emergency Dentist/Doctor, Sports and Recreation Vitra Design Museum, Weil am Rhein, DE Child / Teen Hotline: 147 24 hour/365 Days Service Workshops, Tours, and Education February 2 – July 7 061-261-1515 Entertainment Emergency Veterinarian, Anton Lorenz— 24 Hour/365 Days Service From Avant-Garde to Industry 090-099-3399 Vitra Design Museum, Weil am Rhein, DE February 22 – May 19 3 4 5 6 Youth Book Ship Youth Book Ship Youth Book Ship Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen Lesewinter—Puzzle Fun Children's Theater—Beauty and the Beast Ballet—Carmen Tuesday Evening Climbing Mid-Day Concert Basel’s Public Libraries Puppet Theater—The Little Witch Salsa Evenings Helen Sung Quintet—"Sung with Words” Music Box for Kids Until March 9 Children's Musical Play–Petruschka Cirque “InTarsi”—Festival Momix Annual Testing of the Alarm System Family Famigros Ski Days Theater—La Cage aux Folles Ian Paice with Purpendicular Hats Off to Hats! Snowshoe Day Hike in the Jura Arc-en-Ciel Concert Spielzeug Welten Museum, Basel Kids’ Atelier—Fasnacht Masks Until April 7 Soloist Evening

Pippi Langstrumpf Exhibit Spielzeugmuseum Riehen Until April 29 10 11 12 13 A Taste of the Mountains in Basel Cavalluna—World of Fantasy MUBA MUBA Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen Until the End of March Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Talk—T.C. Boyle: Outside Looking In Tuesday Evening Climbing Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Music Concert and Kids’ Workshop Salsa Evenings Musical—Cats Afternoon Tea at the Villa Merian Snow-Sculpture Festival MUBA MUBA English Book Discussion Basel Expat Expo Musical—Cats Family Famigros Ski Days Aterballetto—Golden Days Workshop—Hats Off to Hats! European Philharmonic of Switzerland Tour—Picasso. Blue and Rose Periods Ballet—Carmen Andrew Lloyd Webber Gala 17 18 19 20 Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Family Promenade Concert—Kreutzersonate Salsa Evenings Tuesday Evening Climbing Basel Composition Competition Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Mondrian Ensemble—No Reality Musical—Cats Ballet—Carmen MUBA Orchestre Tout Puissant & Warmduscher Musical—Cats Games and Toy Market Open Mic Family Famigros Ski Days Theater—La Cage aux Folles Musical—Cats Art on Ice With James Blunt

24 25 26 27 Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Salsa Evenings Tuesday Evening Climbing Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Basel Composition Competition Toddler Tales Afternoon Tea at the Villa Merian Family Concert—Hix-Hex Martha High & The Soul Cookers Explora—Australia Flea Market on the Roof Gemma Ray Rising Star Concert Family Famigros Ski Days Marius Bear Workshop—Hats Off to Hats! Symphony Concert—Liebestod in America Tour—Fasnacht Exhibit Musical—Cats Concert—Till Eulenspiegel & Co. www.basellife.com

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

FEB 1 2 Youth Book Ship / Clubfestival BScene Youth Book Ship Instrument Afternoon / Puppet Theater Clubfestival BScene Beauty and the Beast / Rumpelstilzchen Wine Shop Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Tour of Theater Basel / Olive Oil Market Wine Bar Boulevard Brand #2—Swiss Spirits Night Flea Market & Streetfood Fair Talk—Lake Verea. Paparazza Moderna Family Famigros Ski Days Just for you! Bookbinding Workshop for Children Disco Night at the Skating Rink Cognac VIP Tasting Story Time—Pippi's Big Heart ABBA Gold—The Concert Show Tour of Seeing-Eye Dog School Fondue Vigneronne Spanish Wine Tasting—Viva España Spanish Wine Tasting—Viva España Opera—Lucia Di Lammermoor Das Phantom der Oper 7 8 9 Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen Snow-Sculpture Festival Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen After-School English Story Time Snow-Sculpture Festival Cavalluna—World of Fantasy Drawing with Picasso MUBA Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Annual Testing of the Alarm System One Night of Queen Disco Night at the Skating Rink Snow-Sculpture Festival Ian Paice with Purpendicular AFTER HOURS—Chillen im Museum Bookbinding Workshop for Children MUBA Chamber Orchestra Concert—Pletnev in Moll Basler Coin Fair Absinth Distillery Basel An Evening With Pippi at Toy Museum Riehen Collegium Musicum Concert Workshop—Hats Off to Hats! Storytelling in Arabic and German Concert & Cinema—An American in Paris … probably the most 14 15 16 beautiful wine bar in Basel Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen MUBA Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty After-School English Story Time MUBA Tour of Theater Basel Tuesday - Saturday 11am to 10pm Afternoon Tea at the Villa Merian Drawing with Picasso Irish Night at the Basel West Library Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Blumenrain 24 · 4051 Basel · vin-optimum.ch Musical—Cats Bookbinding Workshop for Children Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights English Book Discussion Basel European Philharmonic of Switzerland Musical—Cats MUBA Concert—TerraSchubert Chamber Music Night Repair Market Aterballetto—Golden Days Songwriter Slam Mummenschanz Special: 3D Printing Up Close European Philharmonic of Switzerland Wine Tasting Storytelling in Japanese and German Musical—Cats / Wine Tasting Game of Thrones—The Concert Show Booker T. Jones

21 22 23 Children’s Theater—Rumpelstilzchen Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Basel Composition Competition Basel Composition Competition Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty Basel Composition Competition After-School English Story Time Jazz Concert at Tinguely Museum Basel Composition Competition Drawing with Picasso Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Snowshoeing and Fondue Nights Musical—Cats Disco Night at the Skating Rink Family Famigros Ski Days Bookbinding Workshop for Children Workshop—Hats Off to Hats! Ballet—Carmen Tour of the Läckerli Huus Musical—Cats Storytelling in English with BCT Wine Tasting Musical—Cats / Wine Tasting Mike Zito and His Big Blues Band Mike Zito and His Big Blues Band Concert—Till Eulenspiegel & Co. Concert—Till Eulenspiegel & Co. Ü30 Dance Party / Dance Night 28 Children’s Theater—Sleeping Beauty After-School English Story Time Afternoon Tea at the Villa Merian Drawing with Picasso Symphony Concert—Liebestod in America Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra

Symphony Concert—Liebestod in America

Your DENTIST in Basel

Dr. med. med. dent. Christoph Villiger

Member of: FMH Swiss Medical Association Swiss Dental Association

Holbeinstrasse 81 061 281 60 05 4051 Basel www.zahnarztpraxis-villiger.ch Sports and Recreation

March 3–8 and 11–16. The Sports Department Baselland has orga- nized four ski and snowboard camps each in the first and second week of the Fasnacht break; all are in different locations. They are for varying age groups for kids born 2002–2008 and cost CHF 300 each; register quickly as spaces fill up fast. www.baselland.ch/politik-und-­behorden/ direktionen/bildungs-kultur-und-sportdirektion/sport/unsere-­ angebote-und-anlaesse/sportcamps/sportcamps-winter-­ fruehling-2016-2017 March 3–9: Ski Club BVB Basel is a youth organization that offers skiing and snowboarding camps for people ages 6–20 under the guidance of trained teachers to learn or improve their skills and techniques. This year’s camp will be in Adelboden (BE) in the first week of the Fasnacht break. Cost is CHF 425 (CHF 475 for non-members), which includes transport, supervision, day pass, and lessons. The trips are equally suit- able for beginners and advanced skiers/snowboarders. www.scbvb-­ basel.ch March 9–16: Ooink Ooink Productions and Kinder- und Jungendarbeit Camps for Kids in the March Fasnacht Break Oberes Kleinbasel is offering a ski and snowboard camp for kids ages If you would like to keep your kids busy during the winter sports (Fas- 7–12 who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, big-footing, and carving. No ski nacht) school break in the first two weeks of March, various clubs and experience is necessary, but a minimum two weeks snowboarding expe- organizations offer a wide range of day camps for all age groups, from rience are required for snowboarding. The camp will take place in Selva/ sports such as basketball and tennis, to creative arts such as painting, Sedrun (GR) and cost for this camp is CHF 290. www.ooinkooink.ch pottery, and a variety of arts and crafts. For parents looking to find the March 10–16: The Sports Department Basel-Stadt has organized this right camps for their kids during school breaks, we have created a ta- camp for kids ages 12–17 to experience a great and informative ski and ble with a long list of camp providers, with a description of the camps, snowboard week in Breil-Brigels (GR) during the second week of Fas- the seasons in which the camps are normally offered, the approximate nacht break; fresh air and fun guaranteed! The cost is CHF 380 for res- age range of the kids, the main language of the camp, as well as their idents of Basel-Stadt and CHF 430 for residents of other cantons. This website for more information and registration. You can find the table in camp fills up fast, so download the form for Sportangebot #006 and the “Resources” section on our website at www.basellife.com and send it in quickly as spaces are limited. www.sportkalender.bs.ch download it. If you are looking for ski and snowboard camps during the Fasnacht break, the following are some of those offered to kids living in the Basel region. While these only take place in March, they fill up quickly, so the time to register is now if you want to secure a place. Kids need to have their own complete ski or snowboarding equipment (helmet is obligato- ry), which can also be rented from the Sports Department Basel-Stadt.

March 2–9: JO SAC Angenstein is offering a ski and snowboard camp for teens ages 14–17 in the first week of the break. Register directly on their website; experience is required. www.jo-angenstein.ch/prog. php?year=2019L March 3–16: Fachstelle für Jugendarbeit der reformierten Kirche Ba- selland is offering 1-week and 2-week ski and snowboard camps for kids born 2001–2011, as well as a family ski camp (first week only), in various locations over the two weeks of the break. www.faju.ch

Family Famigros Ski Days www.famigros.ch/anmelden to benefit from this discount, as well as February 2, 3, 10, 17, 23, and 24 countless other specials at Migros throughout the year. If going skiing with your young family sounds dauntingly expensive, www.famigros-ski-day.ch consider joining a Famigros Ski Day. Every weekend throughout the winter months, Migros organizes a day in the snow for the whole fam- Disco Night at the Skating Rink ily at a different location and at unbeatable prices. In addition to a full- day ski pass for each family member, Famigros Ski Days include a fam- Basel, February 2: Come to the Margarethen skating rink in Basel for a ily-friendly skiing, snowboarding, or telemarking race where the clock night on the “dance floor on ice.” From 19:00–23:00, experience a color- starts as the first family member crosses the starting line and stops fully glitzy décor on the ice with great music, special lighting effects, and when the last family member crosses the finish line, as well as lunch, even a fog machine. Entrance costs CHF 7 for kids ages 6–16 and CHF 10 fun games, a souvenir medal, and gifts from Migros for the whole fam- for skaters over age 16. www.jfs.bs.ch/fuer-sportlerinnen-und-sportler/ ily, and much more. The cost for the Famigros Ski Days is CHF 110 sportangebote/fuer-alle/eis-disco.html (CHF 85 if you hold a Famigros card) for the whole family of 3–5 mem- Rheinfelden, February 8 and 22: Young and old are welcome from bers (with maximum 2 adults), with at least one child born 2005 or later. 20:15–22:30 at the Kunsteisbahn (skating rink) in Rheinfelden, where you Register now to take advantage of this wonderful offer at www.fami- can skate to your favorite requests played by a DJ. Entrance is CHF 8 for gros-ski-day.ch/events; while registration is officially possible until kids ages 5–16, CHF 10 for students up to age 24, and CHF 13 for adults; the Thursday before your selected date, spaces are limited and can fill skates for kids and adults can also be rented on the spot. For more infor- up before. If you are not yet a Famigros card holder, register for free at mation, go to their website. https://kuba-rheinfelden.ch/eisdisco.shtml

20 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Trendsport Basel The Trendsport Club Basel, which is dedicated to trend sports such as BMX cycling, skateboarding, or scooter riding, can currently be found in a temporary location at Klybeckquai in the harbor area (Uferstrasse 80, Basel) until their new permanent location in the Erlenmattpark is com- pleted in 2020. In the 800 m2 temporary hall they offer a playground full of ramps, rails, half pipes, and more. If you don’t have your own BMX bike or scooter, you can rent everything, including helmet and shin guards, on site. They are open every afternoon for all users, in addition to several 3-hour blocks for only BMX bikers or skateboarders in the evening. Additionally, they offer BMX and scooter courses every first and third Saturday of the month, as well as girls’ workshops every fourth Sunday of the month. You can pay as you go (CHF 6 per visit) or buy multiple-entry booklets; for frequent users, attractive seasonal or Snowshoe Day Hike in the Jura Mountains annual memberships are also available. February 3 www.trendsportbasel.ch SAC Angenstein is organizing a one-day snowshoe hike for kids. The tour is planned for a hill in the Jura mountains, but if there is not enough snow, another location will be selected. If it is a sunny day, participants will be rewarded with the best views of the Alps. Get more information and register on their website; you will need to indicate if your child will be bringing their own snowshoes so that the organizers know how many pairs to rent and bring along. Be sure to bring rope or string so that the snowshoes can easily be fastened to the backpack. www.kibe-angenstein.ch/touren.php?id=384

Tuesday Evening Climbing February 5, 12, 19 and 26 FC BASEL SCHEDULE FEBRUARY 2019 Climbing is a sport with many facets, requiring technical skill, flexibility, endurance, balance, as well as physical and mental strength. JO SAC Angenstein organizes supervised Tuesday evening climbing sessions several times per month from November to March from 18:00–20:30. FC Basel 1893 (Fussball / Soccer) This offer is for teens ages 14–17 to learn or to build on their knowl- edge of climbing in various climbing halls in the Basel-Stadt/Baselland Red signifies Home Game @ St. Jakob Stadion region; the price is the cost of the entry to the respective climbing hall (around CHF 15). The locations will be the Kletterhalle K7 im Gundel­ Date Time Home Team Guests dinger Feld (Dornacherstrasse 192, Basel) on February 5 and 26, Klet- terhalle Laufen on February 12, and Kletterhalle B2 in Pratteln on Feb- Sun., Feb. 3 16:00 Grashoppers Club FC Basel 1893 ruary 19. You can register directly on their website by clicking on the date of interest, then on “Zum Anmeldeformular” (to the registration Sat., Feb. 9 19:00 FC Basel 1893 FC St. Gallen form) on the next page. Sun., Feb. 17 16:00 FC Basel 1893 FC Sion www.jo-angenstein.ch/prog.php Sat., Feb. 23 19:00 Neuchâtel Xamax FCS FC Basel 1893

Winter Sports for Families in Switzerland Wed., Feb. 27 20:30 FC Sion FC Basel 1893 On the whole, the winter tourism industry in Switzerland has a lot to of- Prices range from CHF 20–75 for adults in regular seating. There is a fer to families, providing a wide variety of winter diversions. Many re- special area for families and young adults (up to age 22) with slightly sorts offer spas in addition to the slopes, others have wonderful winter lower prices. For more information on seats and pricing, go to www.fcb. walks, toboggan runs, ice rinks, and childcare facilities. Many hotels ch/en-US/Stadion/Stadionplan-Preise#Prices cater specifically to families, and hostels often are also great for family ski trips. They usually have play areas, provide small dormitories of four or six beds suitable for families, offer half-board, and are relatively in- Happiness expensive. Former Basel resident and winter sports enthusiast Nic Oat- ridge has put together a comprehensive website of Swiss ski resorts is Reading. with detailed information on the slopes, the resorts, and how to get Where you find the best stories. there. Although the descriptions were designed mainly for families based in the Basel area, the information remains valid for families living in other parts of Switzerland or visiting the country from abroad and includes distances and directions from Basel, Zürich, Bern, or Luzern. In particular, he provides detailed information on getting to your desti- Orell Füssli nation by public transport, which is feasible even with a family burdened Freie Strasse 17 with buggies, ski gear, and the kids themselves. Check out his website, CH-4001 Basel which is an invaluable tool for anyone planning a ski trip this winter! Tel. 061 264 26 26 www.orellfüssli.ch www.swisswintersports.co.uk photo credits: © nic oatridge (camps for kids); © pixabay (snowshoe hike); © alexander grueber (trendsport basel) February 2019 21 Workshops, Tours, and Education in Basel

Tour of Blindenführhundeschule (Seeing-Eye Dog School) February 2 The Programm für Elternbildung (Program for Parent Education, PEB) is offering a German-language tour for the whole family of the seeing-eye dog school. Participants will watch a film about how the dogs are trained, take a tour of the facilities, observe the dogs in training, meet the pup- pies if they have any, and learn about the training and fostering program. The tour takes place on a Saturday morning from 9:00–11:00 and costs CHF 10 for the entire family (CHF 12 if you live outside of Basel-Stadt). You can register online on the PEB website under “Familienkurse,”­ by clicking on “Anmelden” for workshop number 9. www.peb-basel.ch

English Story Time With Ms. Jeanne—Pippi’s Big Heart February 2 Kids’ Atelier—Fasnacht Masks Pippi was the kind of friend that Valentine’s Day is all about. Join Ms. Jeanne and explore with her this lovely celebration with Pippi Long- February 3 stocking in mind through stories, songs, and rhymes. A simple craft for The Museum der Kulturen is exhibiting a collection of large colorful and the children to make and take home as a souvenir will round out the decorated Fasnacht masks made of paper, felt, wool, lace, fabrics, fur, session. This very popular story time with Jeanne Darling will take place and ribbons. Kids are invited to spend the afternoon from 13:00–17:00 at the Spielzeugmuseum Riehen and is suitable for children ages creating their own mask that they can then wear to the Fasnacht carni- 3–6 years. Cost is CHF 5 per child; museum entrance is CHF 7 for adults. val. The workshop is ideal for kids ages 6 and up and costs CHF 5 for www.spielzeugmuseumriehen.ch materials. www.mkb.ch After-School English Story Time February 7, 14, 21, and 28 The Basel West library (Allschwilerstrasse 90) invites children ages 3–8 on Thursday afternoons at 15:30 to discover new ways to celebrate literature. Join them each week for fun stories, songs, movement, hands-on activities, and more! Several storytellers will rotate through- out the winter months. Participation is free and no registration is required.­ www.stadtbibliothekbasel.ch

Drawing with Picasso February 7, 14, 21, and 28 In conjunction with the Picasso exhibit at the Fondation Beyeler, there will be a “Zeichnen mit Picasso” (Drawing with Picasso) creative hour for early risers every Thursday morning starting at 9:00, an hour before Lesewinter—Puzzle Fun the museum opens to the public. Accompanied by a drawing expert, Until March 9 participants will have the opportunity to practice drawing Picasso’s work in the presence of his original works. The cost for this creative In an effort to promote literacy and to make reading even more fun, session is CHF 10 per person (plus admission to the museum). The ­Basel’s libraries organize a “Lesewinter—Puzzle Fun” for primary number of participants is limited and pre-registration is required at school-aged children each winter. The children are invited to visit one or [email protected]. all of the 10 public libraries in Basel, where they can then solve a puzzle on a theme. This year’s theme is “Color.” www.fondationbeyeler.ch www.jukibu.ch An Evening with Pippi at the Spielzeugmuseum Talk—Lake Verea. Paparazza Moderna February 9 February 1 At night, when the Spielzeugmuseum in Riehen is closed, their Pippi Mexican artists Francisca Rivero-Lake and Carla Verea take paparazzi- Longstocking exhibition also goes to sleep, except on this evening. If like pictures of iconic buildings by modern architects—spontaneously your children love the adventure stories of Pippi and her friends, they and unannounced. At the opening of their exhibition at the Vitra Design will enjoy this evening of exploring the exhibit only by the light of their Museum, just across the border in Weil am Rhein, Germany, they will flashlights. They will hear and invent stories in German and play in the introduce their work and share experiences and anecdotes gathered on exhibit by the semi-darkness of their torches. This special evening their quest for traces of Marcel Breuer, Walter Gropius, and other heroes event will take place from 19:00–21:00 and is suited for children ages 8 of the modern era. This English-language talk will take place at 18:00 and above. Cost is CHF 10 and spaces are limited; register by calling at the Vitra Design Museum Gallery; admission is free. 061-641-2829 or by email at [email protected]. www.design-museum.de www.spielzeugmuseumriehen.ch

22 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Workshop—Hats Off to Hats! Talk—T.C. Boyle: “Outside Looking In” February 9, 10, 23, and 24 February 11 Sun hat, rain hat, cowboy hat, T.C. Boyle’s new novel, “Outside Looking In,” about the Harvard profes- or floppy hat: hats come in all sor and LSD guru Timothy Leary is a glaring trip to the frontiers of shapes and sizes and for al- consciousness and beyond. Emerging scientist Fitz is invited to one of most any purpose imaginable. professor Leary’s LSD parties. Hoping for a career move, he soon real- A hat can say a lot about the izes that Leary’s goals are less medical: he is concerned with a revolu- person who wears it—the style tion of consciousness and a lifestyle detached from social constraints. that a man or woman might Fitz gets carried away by this vision and moves with the Leary troupe to wear is very individual and de- the famous community of Millbrook, where drugs and sexual debauch- pends on the occasion for ery are the order of the day. In cooperation with the Kunstmuseum Ba- which it is worn and on the ef- sel, star author T.C. Boyle will be at the Literaturhaus Basel to discuss fect that it is supposed to have. his book in English. Cathrin Störmer will be reading excerpts from the Special workshops will be held German-translated version of the book, entitled “Das Licht,” under the in connection with the “Hats Off to Hats” exhibit at the Spielzeug Welten moderation of Tom Kummer. The event will start at 19:00 and costs Museum, where children ages 6 and older accompanied by an adult (and CHF 30 (CHF 20 for students); tickets can be purchased at the Li­ the adults as well) can make their own personal hats. These free work- teraturhaus Basel or through Bider and Tanner. shops will be held every second weekend from 13:30–17:30; materials www.literaturhaus-basel.ch are available for free and participants are of course welcome to take the finished hats home. Registration is not required, but participants may have to wait for a turn. English Book Discussion Basel www.spielzeug-welten-museum-basel.ch February 13 If you are interested in reading and discussing mainly contemporary English literature, why not join Book Discussion Basel. The meetings Tour—The Young Picasso take place once a month on a Wednesday evening, when participants February 10 discuss the chosen book that they have read in advance. They meet The Fondation Beyeler will be offering an English-language tour from 19:00–20:30 at Treffpunkt Breite, next to Hotel Breite, Zürcher­ through their new Picasso exhibition, the most ambitious ever staged strasse 149 in Basel (tram 3 or bus 36 to stop “Breite”). Participants by the museum. It is devoted to the paintings and sculptures of the are asked to read the book in advance and to contribute a token fee of young Pablo Picasso from the so-called blue and rose periods, between CHF 5 at each meeting. The next discussion will be about the book 1901 and 1906. The 45-minute tour will start at 15:00 and costs CHF 7, “Lake Success” by Gary Shteyngart. If you are interested in learning in addition to the admission price. Spaces are limited and pre-registra- more about this group or would like to participate, visit their website tion is not possible, so come early to reserve your spot. and contact the organizer. www.fondationbeyeler.ch https://bookdiscussionbasel.jimdo.com

Special: 3D Printing Up Close February 16 3D printing is a manufacturing technique that could revolutionize the way objects are produced and distributed. But how does 3D printing ac- tually work? And what are its prospects for the future? From 12:00–16:00, experts will answer questions and print objects at the Schaudepot Lab of the Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rhein, Germany. This event will be held in English and German; admission is free. www.design-museum.de

photo credits: © museum der kulturen (kids' atelier); © michael pearson (workshop hats); © bettina matthiesen (special: 3d printing, left); © pixabay (special: 3d printing, right) February 2019 23 Workshops, Tours, and Education in Basel (continued)

University Lectures for Kids! Every year, the University of Basel offers a series of lectures in German aimed at children ages 8–12. These Kinder-Uni Basel lectures will take place for five (almost) consecutive weeks in April and May on either Tuesday or Thursday in Basel or Wednesday in Liestal. This year’s five lectures are entitled: “Roboter: Wie ähnlich sind sie uns und was können sie?" (Robots: how similar are they to us and what can they do?), “Wie lernen wir sprechen?” (How do we learn to speak?), “Warum und wie träumen wir?” (Why and how do we dream?), “Was machen die Bakterien in und auf meinem Körper?" (What are the bacteria doing in and on my body?), and “Was ist das Internet und wie funktioniert es?" (What is the Internet and how does it work?). The lectures are all given by University of Basel professors and are aimed at getting kids to think and ask questions. There are 900 places at the Zentrum für Lehre und Forschung (Hebelstrasse 20) in Basel (450 places each on Tuesday and Thursday), as well as 130 places at the Kino Oris in Liestal (Kanonengasse 15) on Wednesdays. All lectures are free of charge and will take place from 17:15–17:45; they fill up quickly, so register now! Be sure to select whether you want your kids to attend the Basel or Liestal sessions on their website. Once registered, kids are expected to go to all five lectures. https://kinderuni.unibas.ch

Irish Night at the Basel West Library Tour—Fasnacht Exhibit February 15 February 24 Irish authors Padraig Rooney (author of “The Gilded Chalet”) and Claire If you want to know more about the unique Basel Fasnacht, you can join O’Dea (author of “The Naked Swiss”) will charm you with tales of their a guided tour of the permanent Fasnacht exhibit at Basel’s Museum der adopted Swiss culture as they read from their written works and share Kulturen. The exhibit provides an overview of the Basel Fasnacht in his- their experiences. Ask questions, converse with friends and fellow toric and atmospheric rooms with costumes, masks, musical instru­ readers, and enjoy an evening of traditional Irish music and literature. ments, historical documents, and a reproduction of a typical “Fasnacht.” Books signed by the authors will be available for sale (cash only). The On February 24, there will be a German-language tour from 11:00–12:00­ event is free of charge and will take place from 19:30–21:30 at the Basel­ and a French-language tour from 15:00–16:00. An English-language West library (Allschwilerstrasse 90). tour is planned for March 10 from 15:00–16:00. www.stadtbibliothekbasel.ch www.mkb.ch

Tour of the Läckerli Huus February 23 Basler Läckerli are those delicious little square spice cookies that have the typical flavors of a Christmas cookie but are specific to Basel and can be purchased year-round. The Programm für Elternbildung (Pro- gram for Parent Education, PEB) is organizing a German-language tour of the Läckerli Huus for families with children ages 7 and up from 14:00–15:00. The tour will start with a brief overview of the history of the Läckerli Huus, followed by information on the manufacturing pro- cesses and the products. The work can be observed through large win- dows, and additional details are documented with video recordings. On the ground floor, participants will be able to enjoy tastings, as well as visit the warehouse and gift shop. Cost is CHF 30 per family (CHF 36 if you live outside of Basel-Stadt); register on the PEB website under “Familienkurse,” by clicking on “Anmelden” for workshop number 10. www.peb-basel.ch

24 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com Toddler Tales February 26 Toddler Tales is designed to introduce young children to the wonderful world of books and the fun of language through singing, rhyming, and dancing. Each session includes an interactive exploration of classic stories with storyteller Jeanne Darling. Toddler Tales takes place from 10:15–10:45 at the Basel West library (Allschwilerstrasse 90) every fourth Tuesday of the month and is ideal for children ages 9 months to 4 years. Participation is free of charge and no registration is required. www.stadtbibliothekbasel.ch

Student Classes in Science and Computers The Phaenovum Schülerforschungszentrum Lörrach-Dreiländereck offers after-school workshops and classes for pre-teens and teens in the field of sciences and computers, including natural science experi- mentation, chemistry, Lego® robot programming, programming Mine- craft plugins, robot building and programing with mBot, electronics, the chemistry of colors, microcomputer programing with Raspberry Pi, programming your own computer game with Scratch, plant research, the world of minerals and ores, and so much more. Classes and work- shops are held in German and run for one day on the weekend or 4- to 11-week sessions during the school year. Check out their website for the upcoming winter classes and register online. www.phaenovum.eu/de/

K’Werk Workshops K’Werk Bildschule is an organization that offers a variety of creative workshops to kids and teens. This winter session includes a four-­ Saturday intensive drawing course in February about the theoretical and analytical aspects of the anatomy of the human body and its pro- portions for youth ages 12–16. In early March, they will offer workshops for kids and young teens on various topics, including animation & pix- elation and street art, and in the April school break, they will offer a printing workshop, pop-up workshop, as well as a workshop on sound maps. The classes are popular and fill up quickly, so you need to regis- ter early to secure a spot. www.kwerk.ch/workshops/

Jukibu Intercultural Library Events Jukibu is a multi-cultural library that houses books for children and adolescents in over 50 languages, their largest collection being Eng- lish-language books. Below is the February schedule of the foreign- language events organized at the library. Please visit their website for a detailed list of activities or to become a member at www.jukibu.ch. You can also check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ jukibu.

DATE AND TIME EVENT SUITABLE FOR… Until March 9 Lesewinter—Puzzle fun in Children ages 6–12 all the libraries in Basel Every Friday, Bookbinding workshop for Children ages 9–12 17:00–19:00 children February 9, Storytelling in Arabic and Parents with children 10:30–11:30 German February 16, Storytelling in Japanese Parents with children 10:30–12:00 and German February 23, Storytelling in English Parents with toddlers 10:30–11:30 with BCT photo credits: © university basel (university lectures for kids); © museum der kulturen (tour fasnacht exhibit) February 2019 25 EventsFeatureDid You in EventKnow? Basel: February 2015 (continued)

MapBS—The New Basel City Map The popular online city map (GeoViewer) of the canton Basel-Stadt has been revamped and can now be found under the name “MapBS.” The newer version contains more information and is more flexible than ever. Depending on your needs, the search can be used to find the safest routes and intersections for your children to take to school, sports facilities, bicycle maps, day care centers, public toilets, or the location of more than 110 specific topics from A (animal carcass disposal) to Z (zoning schedule for garbage pickup). In addition to the desktop PC application, it is now also available as a mobile version and as an app for smartphones and tablets. Also new is the integra- tion and interaction with Google Street View, allowing the user to jump directly to Google Street View from the same map. Another strength is the addition of drawing and measuring tools, allow- ing you to create your own maps with labels and/or directions in different scales and formats. Ad- ditionally, the new MapBS map (http://map.geo.bs.ch) and the supplementary 3D viewer with its approximately 30,000 modeled buildings (https://basel-stadt.virtualcitymap.de/#/) will allow you to find the answers to a variety of questions: What did Basel look like around 1870? Where can I walk my dog off the leash? How loud is the traffic noise on the streets around my new dream apart- ment? Who owns the property that I would like to purchase? How old is my favorite tree in the park by my house? How tall is the Roche tower and what does its shadow look like throughout the day? www.geo.bs.ch

Backwaren Outlet goods at a lower price. The ecological and economical cargo bikes also ­(Baked-Goods Outlet) serve as a counter when they deliver their baked goods to various loca- tions, including schools. The Backwaren Outlet, located just across Berto and Ursula, co-founders of from the back entrance of the Basel SBB in Gundeli (Güterstrasse 120), the Backwaren Outlet, are cam- is a cozy café with flair for everyone. Its bistro tables are inviting you to paigning against food waste with stay for a coffee and cake, and a piano gives the outlet a café-house great commitment. They have atmosphere. Their social engagement also extends to their “Post-It created a business that is right wall.” The wall entitled “Ich hoffe, du kannst es besser brauchen als on so many levels. Every morn- ich!” (I hope you need it more than I do) invites you to take a post-it ing, environmentally friendly car- note, write an amount determined by you (for example, CHF 3.50, CHF go bikes ride to various small 7), pay for it at the counter, and then stick it on the wall. Another person bakeries around Basel, Basel­ with an emptier wallet can then pluck a pre-paid post-it note from the land, and even Fricktal to collect wall and use it at the counter to pay for their consumption. Despite unsold merchandise and bring some initial skepticism, this honor system has proven to be an arrange- it back to their baked-goods ment that is adhered to by both sides—­attesting that giving brings as outlet in Gundeli. This makes much pleasure as a delicious Swiss pastry! If this initiative appeals to for full bread baskets and show- you, helpers are always welcome. cases, and people love the idea of preventing waste and buying http://backwarenoutlet.ch

26 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com PetKids Club at the Animal Shelter Tierschutz beider Basel (Animal Protection Society for Both Basel, TBB) is a foundation that protects and helps animals in need and runs the animal shelter. The TBB understands the importance of engaging youths in nature and the care of animals and has therefore organized the PetKids Club to help promote the human–animal relationship. Since 1995, the PetKids Club offers adventure afternoons a couple of times a month on different days of the week for kids from primary- school age and adolescents. During these afternoons, the kids can look behind the scenes of the animal shelter; help the attendants in caring for the animals; help furnish the enclosures; make toys for dogs, cats, and other small animals; or help bathe the dogs. They also go on ex- cursions, such as visits to a bird sanctuary or the seeing-eye-dog train- ing facility, to a farm to learn about cows, to the zoo, and much more. The annual membership fee is CHF 30 (CHF 20 for each additional child) and includes a biannual PetKids Magazine. Each program activ- ity has a small cost of CHF 5–7 and is open only to PetKids members. Note that donations to the TBB are always welcome, simply go to their website and click on “Spenden.” Lower Your Energy Consumption This Winter www.tbb.ch The Swiss in general are very energy conscious; for example, they of- ten use motion-activated, timed lights in public restrooms, hallways, The Trailing Spouse— Win a copy in our "Where in building entrances, and car parks. Another great example of their quest Reimagined Basel?"contest to conserve energy is the use of motion detectors to trigger escalators and rolling carpets. I myself have used the stairs at airports and train This book, recently published by stations, only to later observe that the motionless escalators were Bergli, is a compilation of stories simply waiting for the next user to start moving. While the price of elec- drawn from dozens of interviews tricity in Basel has dropped slightly for the fourth year in a row, energy with men and women who have re- costs are nonetheless quite high, with canton Basel-Stadt paying the located to Switzerland for their highest electricity prices in the country. The following are some simple partner’s careers. Lovingly narrat- energy-saving­ measures that everyone can adopt to help lower their ed and interpreted by Adriana electrical bill this season: Quark, Rylla Resler, and Francesca Incocciati, who are expats them- 1) Electricity costs are highest between 6:00–20:00 from Monday to selves, the stories describe the Friday. Using energy-thirsty appliances like dishwashers, washing emotional highs and lows of be- ­machines, and clothes dryers outside of those hours (during the coming an expat and leaving be- energy-savings rate times—“Spartarif”—when electricity costs are hind our lives—families, friends, 38.6% lower) will save money. home, language, culture, careers, and even our identities—and in 2) Shut off appliances like stereos, coffee machines, and TVs com- time, learning how to reinvent our- pletely when they are not in use, rather than defaulting to the stand- selves. These are not love stories, by mode, which accounts for about 10% of a household’s annual nor are they how-to instructions on coping in a foreign land, but rather ­energy consumption. stories that will have you recognizing your own journey, experiences, and reactions over and over again. A must-read for any expat who needs 3) Set your computer to “sleep” or “hibernate” mode after a period of to know that they are not alone and that somewhere in this emotional time and switch off your monitor, which can translate to a 30% en- and at times challenging journey of self-discovery, they will emerge ergy savings. If you are away for several hours, it is worthwhile stronger than they ever imagined possible. “The Trailing Spouse—­ turning off the computer altogether—even screensavers consume Reimagined" is available directly from Bergli (www.bergli.ch) or wher- ever books are sold. – Christine Pesold energy! 4) Unplug your chargers when not in use as they consume electricity even when no device or battery is connected for charging.

5) Turn off lights when leaving a room. The cultural 6) LED or LCC-type energy-saving light bulbs cost about CHF 8 less per year than incandescent light bulbs. resource in Basel. 7) Thaw your frozen foods in the refrigerator rather than at room tem- perature—it is not only more energy efficient but also more hygienic.

8) Keep the lids on pots during cooking and save 25% of the energy needed to cook. Additionally, kettles and pressure cookers use less energy than traditional stove-top pots. Books | Music | Tickets Aeschenvorstadt 2 | 4010 Basel 9) Wash your clothes at lower temperatures. Modern detergents allow www.biderundtanner.ch normally soiled laundry to be cleaned at 30ºC–40ºC; only with stub- born stains or for reasons of disinfection should you wash at 60ºC. photo credits: © geoportal kanton basel-stadt (mapbs); © susanne hiller (backwaren outlet); © bergli books (the trailing spouse—reimagined); © pixabay (lower your energy consumption) February 2019 27

Entertainment:Entertainment:Sports and Recreation NightNight onon thethe TownTown

Das Phantom der Oper February 2 The Musical Theater Basel will present this German-language version of the musical masterpiece based on the 1910 novel “Le Fantôme de l’Opéra,” with world-renowned star Deborah Sasson. State-of-the-art 3D video technology creates a perfect stage illusion that smoothly tran- sitions between scenes and images from the ballroom of the opera to the dressing rooms, from the cemetery to secret passages, and from the lake to the secret chambers of the Phantom. “Das Phantom der Oper,” one of the most successful touring musicals in Europe, will be coming to Basel for one night only; tickets range from CHF 59.60–119.90.

www.actnews.ch

A Taste of the Mountains in Basel ABBA Gold—The Concert Show Until the End of March February 1 Have you noticed the alpine-style chalet located near the Basel Zoo? Back for one night at the Musical Theater in Basel, “ABBA Gold” stages Each winter season, the “Baracca Zermatt” is set up in Basel to bring the music of ABBA as vivid and original as possible. The high quality and the mountain spirit to our city on the Rhein. This charming fondue cha- attention to detail, from the original costumes to the Swedish accent of let offers rustic cuisine in a nostalgic atmosphere that will make you the band members, means that the audience does not have to close believe that the Matterhorn is just outside the door. You will be charmed their eyes to believe that they are attending a “real” ABBA concert. by the walls decorated with rarities from days gone by, the chandeliers Tickets range from CHF 41.20–81.90 and can be purchased through and wax-dripped candles that cast a special light, the roaring fire in the Ticketcorner. center of the room, and the cords of wood stacked at the door. Whether www.actnews.ch for relaxing with friends, a big family celebration, or a company event, it promises a unique “mountain dining” experience—without leaving Basel! If you are looking for a romantic setting for two to four people, consider booking the quaintly decorated gondola lit by candles and decked with fur throws on the chairs. The chalet is located at Bin- ningerstrasse 14 in Basel between Heuwaage and the zoo. They are open Monday to Saturday starting at 19:00; closed Sundays. You can make reservations at 061-564-6699 or [email protected]. https://baracca-zermatt.ch/bs

Cognac VIP Tasting February 1 The “old-men’s beverage” is experiencing a brilliant revival—in cock- tails, as a noble digestif, or as the perfect complement to a nice cigar. Paul Ullrich will be hosting an evening where they will guide visitors in a small round through the high-class world of this traditional bever- age. The event will take place from 19:00–21:30 at their central location Spanish Wine Tasting—Viva España at Schneidergasse 27 in Basel and costs CHF 75 (CHF 65 for LiquidClub members); spaces are limited to 24 persons, so register online asap. February 1 and 2 www.ullrich.ch Mövenpick Weinkeller (Haltingerstrasse 101) in Basel is hosting a tast- ing of a variety of wines from Spain; opening hours are until 20:00 on Friday and until 18:00 on Saturday; the tastings are free of charge. www.moevenpick–wein.com

Opera—Lucia Di Lammermoor February 2 A blood-stained dress, a knife in her hand, her face an image of mad- ness—Lucia has killed her husband on her wedding night. She loved another man and still loves him—Edgardo, the one she sees herself united with at the peak of her madness and who she will precede in death. He, however, is her brother’s mortal enemy. Against the back- ground of the conflict between Catholics and Protestants in 16th cen- tury Scotland, two families are engaged in a bitter struggle for honor, power, and wealth. Lucia becomes a plaything in this private war. A politically useful marriage is planned for her. She consents to this forced marriage, but the torment of how she is treated, the way in which her brother’s scheming denies her humanity and her unrequited love for Edgardo, breaks not only her heart but also her soul. For this shat-

28 Basel Life Magazine / www.basellife.com

tering moment of a woman’s final act of liberation from the oppressive mechanisms of her family, Gaetano Donizetti composed one of the most remarkable aria scenes in 19th-century opera. It was this mad scene in particular that was responsible for Donizetti’s breakthrough into the tragic genre at the world premiere in Naples in 1835. This op- era in three acts will be performed in Italian with German and English surtitles at the Theater Basel; tickets are CHF 80–151 for adults and CHF 42–78 for youths. www.theater-basel.ch

Soloist Evening Ballet—Carmen February 3 February 4, 10, 20, and 22 For this soloist evening, Swiss flutist Emmanuel Pahud, accompanied by Carmen became famous as an opera heroine. At the end of the 19th Maja Avramovicon on the violin, Joaquín Riquelme Garcíaon on the viola, century, the character of Carmen put an entirely new kind of woman, and Stephan Konczon on the violoncello, will be playing works by Wolf- and with her a completely new form of romantic relationship, on stage. gang Amadeus Mozart, Antonín Dvořák, and Gioacchino Rossini at the Until then, especially in the opéra comique, women appeared as men’s Musical Theater Basel. The concert starts at 19:30; tickets are CHF 35–90. playthings, suffering and steadfast in their moral sincerity. In contrast, www.konzerte-basel.ch Carmen reveals an almost scandalous form of behavior; she lives and above all loves intensely and entirely according to her own rules. Fear- less and freedom-loving, Carmen is the architect of her own life and Salsa Evenings relationships and in the end, she has to die because others cannot toler- February 4, 11, 18, and 25 ate her freedom. In the foreground of Johan Inger’s full-length narrative Why not chase away the winter blues with an evening of salsa music, ballet stands the familiar drama of love and jealousy. But the “Carmen” dance, and food? Come to Parterre One for the exuberant atmosphere ballet is not only based on the story of its female protagonist but rather of the legendary salsa evenings under the motto “Salsa con Sabor” concentrates on Don José. Incapable of accepting his lover’s free spirit, with DJ Samy. The joie de vivre of South America comes to the Parterre his love leads him down the path to an emotional hell: jealousy, passion, One every Monday starting at 21:00. Entrance is CHF 7 (CHF 5 reduced and revenge dominate his thoughts and his actions. Inger’s “Carmen” student price); for an additional CHF 35, you can enjoy an appetizer and will be performed at the Theater Basel; tickets are CHF 30–137 for a main course of your choice at the Parterre One bistro. adults and CHF 22 for youths and students. www.parterre-one.ch www.theater-basel.ch

Cirque “InTarsi”—Festival Momix 2019 February 5 The circus company eia’s program “inTarsi” will be presented at this year’s annual Momix Festival, which supports contemporary artistic works in various disciplines, including theater, puppetry, music, circus, dance, shadow theater, and other animated forms. “inTarsi” displays great strength with a dose of humor, poetry, warmth, and virtuosity. A few small foldable tables, a trampoline, a seesaw, and four acrobats who observe each other, gauge each other, bump into each other, and carry each other, launch and transport us in their metaphorical faran- dole. Encounters, rivalries, exploits, mishandling, seizure of power, se- duction, manipulations—all of the situations that we find in our social relationships are represented here with acrobatic humor. With an im- pressive technique, the four Spanish and Italian acrobats of eia offer audiences a show that creates a real tenderness for this strange beast Helen Sung Quintet “Sung with Words” that is man. You can attend this incredible human experience at Théâtre La Coupole, just across the border in St. Louis, France. The show starts February 5 at 19:30, tickets are € 10, and the bar opens one hour before the show. Pianist and composer Helen Sung of Houston, Texas, spent most of her www.lacoupole.fr life in two different worlds—after nearly 20 years of studying classical piano, she turned to jazz in her early twenties. She understands the inexhaustible reach and potential of the piano in a way that few special- ists in her genre can. As the daughter of Chinese immigrants, Sung also embodies two different cultures and has discovered a musical voice and identity that is not only true to both, but especially to herself. The Helen Sung Quintet, with singer Christie Dashiell, bassist Reuben Rogers, saxophonist John Ellis, and Kush Abadey on drums, will be playing at the Q4 jazz club (lower level of Hotel Schützen) in Rhein- felden, only a short walk from the Rheinfelden train station. Public car parking is available in front of the hotel. Tickets are CHF 45 for adults and CHF 10 for students (with I.D.); reserve them at [email protected] or for dinner and concert at 061-836-2525. www.jazzclubq4.ch photo credits: © actnews (phantom der oper, abba gold); © pixabay (cognac vip tasting); © helen sung; © lucian hunziker (carmen); © ben hopper (cirque "intarsi") February 2019 29

Entertainment:Sports and Recreation Night on the Town (continued)

knows the songs and states, “these guys play the songs damned well!” Purpendicular, founded in 2007 by Irish singer Robby Thomas Walsh, is the most-booked Deep Purple tribute band in the world. They named themselves after Deep Purple’s 15th studio album and masterfully play classics like “Child in Time,” “Black Night,” “Smoke on the Water,” “Woman From Tokyo,” and “Hush.” Fans of Deep Purple won’t want to miss Paice with Purpendicular at the Z7 in Pratteln, and who knows if Glover, who lives in Switzerland and thoroughly enjoyed playing with them back in 2012, will not suddenly appear at the Z7 when buddy Paice sets the pace for Purpendicular’s gig on drums. Tickets are CHF 39.50 and can be purchased online. www.z-7.ch AFTER HOURS—Chillen im Museum February 7 Arc-en-Ciel Concert If you are interested in seeing the Naturhistorisches Museum Basel’s February 6 exhibit “Into the Ear—A Sensory Experience” in the evening, here is your chance. You can visit this special exhibit at your leisure from The Sinfonieorchester Basel’s Arc-en-Ciel concerts take place in various 18:00–23:00 for free, followed by a relaxing drink with friends at the cultural venues in the Basel region and create connections between museum bar (drinks are extra). the audience and the orchestra. At this concert, orchestra members will play works by George Gershwin, Giovanni Gabrieli, and Georges www.nmb.bs.ch Delerue at 19:00 at the International School Basel in Reinach. All are welcome to enjoy the music as well as to stay for a small social gather- Theater—La Cage aux Folles ing after the concert and enjoy a drink while getting to know the musi- February 5 and 17 cians; admission is free. As Zaza, Albin is the star of the nightclub “La Cage aux Folles” in www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch St. Tropez, whose owner Georges has been Albin’s partner for over 20 years. Life in this exotic and glittering world on the beach of the Côte One Night of Queen d’Azur could be so carefree if time would not insist on marching on February 7 quite so mercilessly. Albin feels he is getting old. There are more and more wrinkles, and his clothes now have to hide his body rather than At the end of 1991, rock fans were show it off. How can anyone in show business grow old successfully? shocked when Freddie Mercury, On top of this, the world offstage has not got any more open-minded lead singer of Queen and one of the with the passage of time—populists who insist that the law is based on most charismatic singers of all tradition and morals are gaining far too much attention. And how are time, succumbed to his illness. The they going to react when their only son—Georges’ offspring from a brief remaining band members of the but intense affair—suddenly decides that he wants to marry the daugh- legendary group came to the unan- ter of the chairman of the “Party for Tradition, the Family, and Morals”? imous conclusion that neither the Georges and Albin do what any parents would do for their children: ev- band nor their philosophy could ex- erything. For the sake of their son, they even try to deny their own lives, ist without Mercury, so Queen vir- their identity, and their love. As one might expect, this strategy is tually disappeared from the scene. doomed to failure. Events turn stormy in this musical comedy that in “One Night of Queen” is the most addition to all its glamour, drag acts, humor, and unforgettable songs authentic and impressive Queen also asks questions about what really makes a family, ageing, and in- tribute show in the world, using tolerance, and encourages us to take a broader view. This theater dra- original costumes provided by the ma will be performed in German with English surtitles at the Theater ex-Queen members themselves, and the voice and persona of Gary Basel; tickets are CHF 67–137 for adults and CHF 36–71 for students. Mullen, who is the perfect double for Mercury. The show will be at the Musical Theater in Basel; tickets are CHF 51.40–81.90. www.theater-basel.ch www.actnews.ch

Chamber Orchestra Concert—Pletnev in Moll February 8 Mozart did not write many compositions in minor keys. Only two of his many piano concertos are in minor keys, and for this concert, the Kam- merorchester Basel will play Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor, the key that Beethoven coined with fierce pathos. But Mozart’s approach is rather different from Beethoven’s. Hear whether pianist Mikhail Pletnev succumbs to or resists the seduction or coercion of the demonic forc- es... Additionally, the Russian master pianist will play another minor concert—this one by Johann Sebastian Bach. As a contrast, the pro- Ian Paice With Purpendicular gram also includes a symphony that Mozart had written so quickly that February 6 eight months later he had forgotten practically every note. The wealthy In 2012, the Deep Purple tribute band Purpendicular played at the Z7 in Salzburg merchant Sigmund Haffner had ordered the symphony in Pratteln and amazed their fans when they were joined by Deep Purple’s 1782, on the occasion of his elevation to the peerage. You can catch this legendary drummer Ian Paice and their original bassist Roger Glover. concert of minors at the Martinskirche at 19:30; tickets are CHF 38–80. Since then, Paice occasionally joins the band for shows because he www.kammerorchesterbasel.ch

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Cats February 12–24 Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking, 2015 Olivier award-nominated musical “Cats” comes to Theater 11 in Zürich for two weeks this February. Adapted from T.S. Eliot’s “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats," this groundbreaking musical brings together a sparkling fusion of music, dance, and verse, and has now taken on a new life for a new generation. On just one special night of the year, all Jellicle cats meet at the Jellicle Ball where Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, makes the Jellicle choice and announces which of them will go up to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a whole new Jellicle life. With timeless music, spectacular sets, a superb cast, breathtaking choreography, and of course the unforget- table song “Memory,” “Cats” is a magical musical like no other. Let “Cats” thrill you once again, but don’t miss out on a seat, because they will go fast; tickets are CHF 49.40–139.90 for adults and half price for kids under age 16. www.ticketcorner.ch

Absinth Distillery Basel world over and are met with an unprecedented level of enthusiasm in February 8 the most diverse cultural circles. “The Big Andrew Lloyd Webber Gala” Paul Ullrich will be holding a distillation class where participants will combines all of these emotions in one show, with excerpts from his learn how distill their own bottle of absinthe to take home. Join Oliver masterpieces, such as “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Cats,” “Jesus Matter, master distiller of Matter Spirits, who will show you how to Christ Superstar,” “Evita,” “Sunset Boulevard,” “Starlight Express,” bring the “green fairy” to the bottle. This event will take place at their ­“Aspects of Love,” “Love Never Dies,” “Song and Dance,” and “Requi- Laufenstrasse 16 location in Basel and will cost CHF 95 (CHF 80 for em.” This production will feature a 14-piece live orchestra on stage LiquidClub members); the class is limited to 24 participants. along with performers; elaborate multimedia projections, both on the transparent curtains and on the screens behind the musicians and on www.ullrich.ch the stage floor; creative and modern “video mapping;” and, last but not least, colorful costumes. You can catch this musical and multimedia ex- Collegium Musicum Concert—And the Winners Are... perience at the Musical Theater in Basel; tickets are CHF 49.40–99.90. February 8 www.actnews.ch It is a longstanding tradition of the Collegium Musicum Basel to offer prize winners from international competitions the opportunity to perform in Aterballetto—Golden Days front of a Basel audience at one of its six subscription concerts. For some February 13 musicians, this opportunity marks the beginning of an international ­career. Under the direction of British-born Leo McFall, who studied in Zürich and Music and dance are inseparable, and Johan Inger makes this connection won the 2015 German Conducting Award, the Collegium Musicum Basel even stronger. The result—a choreographic symphony entitled “Golden will be introducing the winners of the International ARD Competition Days.” The three choreographies “Rain Dogs,” “BLISS,” and the newly cre- ­Munich 2018. This concert will take place at the Musical Theater in Basel ated, interim solo “Birdland” revolve around the memory of golden days of starting at 19:30, with a pre-concert at 18:15. Tickets are CHF 54–80 the past. “Golden Days” is completely invented along the music of Tom (CHF 15 for kids and students) and can be purchased at Bider & Tanner. Waits, Patti Smith, and Keith Jarrett. The works of the three iconic music greats form the soundtrack of a program that deals with loss, change, and www.collegiummusicumbasel.ch everything that comes with it. It appeals to our nostalgic longing for days gone by that look so golden in retrospect. But were they really so shiny Concert & Cinema—An American in Paris then? The only free-dance formation in Italy, Aterballetto, answers this February 9 moving question—without nostalgia and rose-colored glasses, but with a good dose of humor. Catch this unique performance at the Burghof, just “An American in Paris,” starring Gene Kelly, Leslie Caron, Oscar Le- across the border in Lörrach, Germany, at 20:00; tickets are € 39. vant, Georges Guétary, and Nina Foch, was a musical film where the story was interspersed with dance numbers choreographed by Gene www.burghof.com Kelly and set to music by George Gershwin. Unforgettable songs made famous by this movie include “I Got Rhythm," "I'll Build a Stairway to Paradise,” “‘S Wonderful,” and “Love is Here to Stay.” The music of this enormously successful movie, which won six Academy Awards among many other accolades, will be played live by the Sinfonieorchester ­Basel while the movie is projected in English with German subtitles on the screen above the orchestra. This special concert will take place at the Musical Theater Basel at 19:30; tickets are CHF 40–120 and can be purchased online or through Bider & Tanner. www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch

Andrew Lloyd Webber Gala February 10 Love, seduction, admiration, humor, greed, spirituality, hope, inspira- tion—Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music covers the full range of human emotions. Perhaps this is why his works and music are popular the photo credits: © kostas maros (after hours); © sandra then (la cage aux folles); © gobo productions (one night of queen); © alessandro pinna (cats) February 2019 31

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Songwriter Slam February 14 Every couple of months, Parterre One hosts “Songwriter Slam,” a re- laxed song contest. On the evening, four to six singer-songwriters play for the favor of the audience who after each round express their appre- ciation for their song—it is always relaxed, happy, and subjective. There are three main rules: The songs must be your original composition (no covers), the time limit per song is four minutes, and the order of the performances is drawn. If you have talent or a song that you would like to present, why not give it a try? Blues guitarist and singer Flo Bauer won the prestigious master songwriter slam at the Parterre in Basel in 2017 and went on to be voted Best Promo Blues Band 2018 at last year’s Blues Festival Basel with his band, winning him a spot as a main act in last June’s Summerblues Basel and this year’s Blues Festival Basel! The event starts at 20:30 and entrance costs CHF 15. All are welcome to join the fun as a singer-songwriter or as a member of the audience. www.parterre-one.ch

Chamber Music Night February 15 The Kammerorchester Basel will be presenting Experimental II in this season’s “Nachtklang” series, entitled “For once in my life.” The con- cert will take place at Druckereihalle at Ackermannshof in Basel (St. Johanns-Vorstadt 19–21), starting at 21:00. The program includes Game of Thrones—The Concert Show songs we always wanted to sing, far away from home, in a hotel bar at night—fados, tangos, and other songs of life. With experimental sounds, February 16 revolutionary orchestration across music history, inspiring artist con- The “Game of Thrones” series has unleashed an unprecedented global nections, and memorable themes, musicians from the Kammerorches- hype that will continue until the end of 2019, when the 8th and final ter Basel present their own concepts and programs in the “Nachtklang” season of this famous TV series will air. To shorten the waiting time, series. At a late hour, by candlelight and with a glass of wine, the con- fans of the HBO series can experience the moving music live. There cert is an ideal ending of the day and beginning to an exciting creative have been sold-out concerts in the United States, and performances in weekend. Tickets can be purchased online and are CHF 20 for adults Europe have sparked a storm of enthusiasm. “Game of Thrones—The (concert only) and free for kids up to age 14 with accompanying parent Concert Show” is a live show of a very special kind. An orchestra, a (ticket necessary). The neighboring restaurant “Zur Mägd” will be of- large choir, and solo artists will present music from all seven seasons fering a three-course meal before the concert, which can be booked up of the hit series. Screen animation and visual effects are supposed to to three days in advance for CHF 54 (meal and concert). make the hearts of “Game of Thrones” fans beat faster. With state-of- www.kammerorchesterbasel.ch the-art technology, the formidable 100-member prestigious London Festival Symphonics orchestra, soloists, and choir will take fans on a musical journey through the kingdoms at the Musical Theater Basel at Mummenschanz 19:30; tickets are CHF 51.40–111.90. February 15 www.actnews.ch For over four decades, Mummenschanz has inspired audiences around the European Philharmonic of Switzerland world with their wordless but extreme- February 13 and 14 ly poetic art. They will be performing their show “You & Me,” which has been The European Philharmonic of Switzerland, with soprano Teodora hailed by critics as funny, amazing, ­Gheorghiu and under the direction of Daniel Cohen, will be playing works melancholic, romantic, dramatic, and by Gaetano Donizetti, Vincenzo Bellini, Giuseppe Verdi, and Pjotr Iljitsch exciting, at the Burghof, just across the Tschaikowsky at the Musical Theater at 19:30; tickets are CHF 41–57. border in Lörrach, Germany. The show www.konzertgesellschaft.ch will start at 20:00; tickets are € 39–49 and € 12 for youths. Concert—TerraSchubert www.burghof.com February 14 Founded around the turn of the millennium, the Swiss Chamber Solo- Wine Tasting ists is a chamber ensemble that brings together leading performers from all over Switzerland, along with acclaimed guest artists from February 15, 16, 22, and 23 abroad, to perform sophisticated programs of chamber music. This Mövenpick Weinkeller in Basel (Haltingerstrasse 101) is hosting a tasting “TerraSchubert” concert will feature works by Franz Schubert and of the wines recommended by their wine consultants. There is no cost Richard Dubugnon. The concert will be held at Ackermannshof in ­Basel, and no obligation to buy; simply come in and taste during their opening starting at 19:30. Tickets costs CHF 35 for adults, CHF 10 for students hours until 20:00 on Friday and until 17:00 on Saturday. Discover your or holders of the Colourkey, and can be reserved online. new favorites; their staff is always happy to assist you in English. www.swisschamberconcerts.ch www.moevenpick-wein.com

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Art on Ice with James Blunt tion to James Blunt and Ste- February 17 fanie Heinzmann’s hits will be Swiss crowd favorite Art on Ice is the unique, colorful interplay between Olympic and world ­Stéphane Lambiel, as well champions skating on the ice and international music stars performing as Olympic gold medalists live on stage. It is among the most-attended indoor shows in the world, and world champions Kaet- with nearly 80,000 spectators annually. Headlining acts this year include lyn Osmond, Aljona Savchen- singer-songwriter James Blunt and Swiss pop and soul queen Stefanie ko & Bruno Massot, and Heinzmann. Blunt has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. He ­Tatiana Volosozhar & Maxim launched his career in 2005 with the album “Back to Bedlam” and the Trankov. Also performing in single “You’re Beautiful.” Other number-one hits included “1973,” “Stay the 2019 Art on Ice ensem- the Night,” and “Bonfire Heart.” Heinzmann has released four studio ble will be a troupe from the albums to date, all of which made it to the top five in the charts. “My Man Cirque Éloize. Like almost is a Mean Man” stayed at number one on the singles charts for four no other, the Canadians un- weeks. Heinzmann’s newest single is “Build a House.” Skating to perfec- derstand the art of circus and combine the original and modern with music and dance. The 2019 European tour of Art on Ice will include one night at the St. Jakobshalle in Basel; tickets range from CHF 89.90–169.90 and can be purchased through www.­ticketcorner.ch. www.artonice.ch

Booker T. Jones with stone sounds. The concert will take place at 20:00 at the Gare du February 16 Nord, located on the left side of the Badischer Bahnhof in Basel. Tickets can be purchased through www.garedunord.ch and cost CHF 30 for adults The Zürich JazzNoJazz Festival presents Stax soul legend Booker and CHF 15 for students and holders of the Colourkey or Kulturlegi. T. Jones. Who does not know them, the timeless world hits of the leg- endary Stax label from Memphis, such as “Green Onions,” “Sittin’ on the www.mondrianensemble.ch; www.garedunord.ch Dock of the Bay,” or “Born Under a Bad Sign”? Recorded by stars like Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Willie Nelson, or Sam & Dave, these hits Orchestre Tout Puissant Marcel Duchamp XXL & were all backed by the one and only Booker T. & The MGs, with Duck Warmduscher Dunn, Steve Cropper, and Jones at the Hammond organ. With his latest February 19 album, “Sound the Alarm,” Jones has made an impressive return, cool and tasteful with his Hammond-B3 blues and soul, from the vintage The Rossstall 1 at Kaserne Basel will be the location for this double- sound of the 1960s to the present day. In 2017, the Stax label celebrated header concert featuring Switzerland’s Orchestre Tout Puissant Marcel its 50th birthday, and fans of Jones can celebrate it with him on Febru- Duchamp XXL with their program “Blow” and Warmduscher from the ary 16 at the Kaufleuten in Zürich; tickets are CHF 60 for standing room, United Kingdom. Orchestre Tout Puissant Marcel Duchamp XXL brings CHF 85 for balcony seats, and CHF 135 for a package including a 2-course together 14 musicians who—with strings, wind instruments, marimbas, meal in the Kaufleuten restaurant starting at 18:00 and balcony seats. and their own voices—devote themselves to a sound that pays homage to complex compositions without forgetting the punk element. They joyfully https://kaufleuten.ch strum, rock, and groove their way through 2- to 10-minute numbers that were neatly packaged on their 2018 album “Sauvage Forms,” produced by Mondrian Ensemble—No Reality John Parish. Warmduscher has been causing quite a stir on the London February 18 underground scene with a blend of dry garage rock and driving rhythm In 1991, a research group from ETH Zürich created a mechanism that guitars. The quintet consists of members of the infamous Fat White made stones produce sound, prompting the creation of various “stone Family, the electro duo Paranoid London, Childhood, and the Fat White instruments” and opening of a club for stone-sound music. In this pro- off-shoot Insecure Men, who initially formed a band following a sponta- gram, the Mondrian Ensemble, with guest percussionist Swede Erika neous gig on New Year’s Eve 2014. Tickets can be bought in advance­ ­Öhman, will present some works for Steinklang (stone sounds) and inter- through Starticket for CHF 20. Holders of the STUcard, enjoy!-Kultur- weaves them with compositions by Edu Haubensak. In the commissioned pass (online & evening box office), Colourkey,and Kulturlegi (evening composition “No Reality” for piano quartet, lithophone (stone instrument), box office) will receive a CHF 5 discount; doors open at 20:30. and cymbals, Haubensak brings together his microtonal sound worlds www.kaserne-basel.ch photo credits: © highlight concert productions (game of thrones); © marco hartmann (mummenschanz); © art on ice productions February 2019 33

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Open Mic Ü30 Dance Party February 20 February 23 The newly renovated Parterre One will once again be hosting the popu- This disco is for those ages 30 and older who love to dance, listen to lar open-mic nights for singer-songwriters, who serve as the “main good music with like-minded people, get together with friends, or meet courses” on the stage. Other artists like poets, magicians, transfigura- interesting new people. The Offene Kirche Elisabethen (Elisabethen tion artists, narrators, astrologers, and philosophers are now also wel- Church) near Bankverein hosts a dance party from 20:00–02:00 several come as between-course “appetizers.” Moderators Vic Hofstetter and times per year to raise money for charitable causes. Tickets cost Robert Vilim will host the evenings. The rules are simple: singer-song- CHF 25; it is advisable to buy them in advance through Ticketcorner as writers can play 3 of their own songs (maximum 15 minutes and no cov- these events sell out quickly. ers), with a maximum of 2 people on stage. Other artists are allowed a www.ueparties.ch maximum of 10 minutes on stage, also with no more than 2 people. To participate at the Open Mic, register your occupation, place of residence, and music or video link at [email protected]. Open Mic is real and Dance Night easy and always an adventure—so why not join the fun, starting at 20:30. February 23 www.parterre-one.ch “Tanznacht40” dance parties are for those who have at least 40 years ­under their belts. The event will take place at Halle 7 (Dornacher­ strasse 192, Basel) with DJ Barber and will run from 21:00–03:00. Mike Zito & Big Blues Band Feat. the B.B. King Horns Friends, couples, and singles are welcome; admission is CHF 15. February 22 and 23 www.tanznacht40.ch Groove Now fans are familiar with rockin’ Win two tickets in our Texas blues star, Mike Zito. Since 2010, he Where in Basel? contest has been a regular guest of Groove Now Martha High & The Soul Cookers with his bands, and his concerts always February 26 sell out very quickly. His latest CD, “First Martha High accompanied the “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown, for Class Hero," is a triumph, with blues, 30 years as a background singer. High’s credentials as one of Brown’s rockin’ blues, soul, and funk at its very most important band members and as part of his historic contribution best. For this occasion, Groove Now has to soul music are beyond question. Her reputation as an extraordinari- come up with something very special: A ly talented musician was once again confirmed with the 2016 release of Mike Zito Big Band with a second guitarist, her critically acclaimed solo album “Singing for the Good Times.” Don’t keyboard, and horns. Zito has already con- miss this opportunity to catch High and her band for a night full of ceived this world premiere idea—he will groove and soul at the Q4 jazz club (lower level of Hotel Schützen) in present a pure blues show with a veritable Rheinfelden, only a short walk from the Rheinfelden train station. Pub- big band with great sidemen. A highlight is the sensational brass section lic car parking is available in front of the hotel. Tickets are CHF 45 for that formerly played winds for B.B. King, including saxophonist Eric Dem- adults and CHF 10 for students (with I.D.); reserve them at info@ mer and trumpeter James Boulet. The second guitarist coming to Basel jazzclubq4.ch or for dinner and concert at 061-836-2525. in this all-star line-up will be the legendary Tom Holland, former guitarist www.jazzclubq4.ch of the late harmonica legend James Cotton. With Zito’s original rhythm section and Freddie King’s former keyboardist Lewis Stephens joining the band, it can hardly get better than that. Zito remains one of the most in- ventive and musically mature representatives of the whole blues-rock genre and has garnered several of the most important awards in the world of blues and American roots music, playing with today’s most im- portant blues musicians. He is not just a highly gifted singer, songwriter, and guitarist, but has also proven himself to be a most convincing band leader and entertainer. The blues star with his new big band project will be giving two unforgettable concerts at the Atlantis in Basel. The concerts start at 20:30; doors open at 20:00 on Friday and 19:30 on Saturday. The tickets, which are sure to sell out fast, are CHF 49 on Friday and CHF 59 on Saturday; they can be purchased through www.starticket.ch. www.groovenow.ch

Concert—Till Eulenspiegel & Co. Gemma Ray February 22, 23, and 24 February 26 Neues Orchester Basel has been promoting talented young local musi- The English word “rock” has many meanings, but for British songwrit- cians for 35 years. In this concert entitled “Till Eulenspiegel & Co.,” they er, guitarist, singer, film composer, and producer Gemma Ray, the most will be playing works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Bernd Alois Zimmer- important one probably differs from what it means for most musicians. mann, Richard Strauss, and Giuseppe Verdi under the direction of Chris- The Berlin-based singer-songwriter from Essex sticks to the most ba- tian Knüsel. There will be three concerts: one at the Obere Fabrik in Sis- sic, literal meaning of the word rock. When she goes on tour, she al- sach (Gerbegässlein 1) on Friday at 19:30, one at the Katholische Kirche ways takes the time to explore the landscape. She is fascinated by the in Reinach (Kirchgasse 7) on Saturday at 20:00, and one at the Martins­ grand, twisted formations she has seen while traveling the world, and kirche Basel on Sunday at 17:00. Tickets are CHF 42–55 for adults, CHF 20 by how small we are and how insignificant our own personal problems for students, and free for anyone under age 18; they can be purchased in are in comparison. Ray will be performing at the Parterre One in Basel advance at Bider & Tanner, online through www.ticketino.com, or one at 20:30 (doors open at 19:30); tickets are CHF 23 in advance through hour in advance at the evening box office. www.ticketino.com and CHF 25 at the door. www.neuesorchesterbasel.ch www.parterre-one.ch

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Explora—Australia. With Camels Through the Outback electronic elements and vocal effects. “Sanity” is the title track of his February 27 new EP, which he will present live at the Rossstall I + II at Kaserne. Don’t miss this opportunity to see a future big star in such an intimate setting; After their trips to Canada, adventurists Markus and Sabrina Blum and pre-sale tickets are CHF 25 through www.starticket.ch, CHF 5 discount their two daughters Amira (8) and Naira (4) wanted to embark on an- with STUcard, enjoy!-Kulturpass (online & evening box office), Colourkey other horse adventure. But they had to come up with a new idea when & Kulturlegi (evening box office). the youngest developed an allergy to horses. The new plan? To cross the outback in Australia—with camels and a covered wagon. In Novem- www.kaserne-basel.ch ber 2016, the Blum family set out for Down Under, starting with 6 months of on-site preparations. While the daughters went to school in the small Symphony Concert—Liebestod in America South Australian town of Hawker, the parents started to train the un- tamed desert camels on a farm. The handling of the still wild, stubborn February 27 and 28 animals at temperatures of up to 50°C was extremely demanding. After The main focus of Sinfonieorchester Basel’s concert is Charles Ives’ 6 months of hard work, great perseverance, and many setbacks, the Symphony No. 2. “Charles Ives polished off the cake before anyone else Blums harnessed the camels in front of their caravan built for the pur- had even sat down at the table,” Igor Stravinsky supposedly said of the pose, and the family spent the next three months touring Australia’s American composer born in 1874, meaning that he was far ahead of his impressive desert areas. During this time, they relied on themselves time. At first glance, Ives’ Symphony No. 2 is a work of late Romanti- and on their animals, far away from the rhythm of everyday life. This cism, entirely in the spirit of Johannes Brahms, Antonín Dvorák, Rich- German-language documentary of their latest adventure will be shown ard Wagner, and Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. But its melodic material is at the Volkshaus in Basel at 19:30; tickets are CHF 28–34, CHF 25–31 new. It includes quotations from American hymns and student songs, for students, and CHF 6–12 for kids under age 16. elements of profane utility music, and popular styles—and it calls into www.explora.ch question the inviolable concept of musical works. This was revolution- ary, but remained unheard for nearly 50 years, until Leonard Bernstein conducted its world premiere in New York in 1951. The symphony also includes hints of Wagner’s “Tristan and Isolde,” and the concert will open with the “Prelude” and “Liebestod” from that opera. Sandwiched between these two works of the late Romantic period will be Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5 with its “Turkish” finale, interpreted by Greek vio- linist Leonidas Kavakos. This concert will take place at the Theater ­Basel at 19:30, with a pre-concert introduction in the theater’s foyer at 18:30; tickets are CHF 50–99. www.sinfonieorchesterbasel.ch

Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra February 28 The Stuttgarter Kammer- orchester under the direc- tion of Matthias Foremny and with saxophonist Asya Fateyeva will be playing works by Alexander Glasu- now, Sergej Rachmaninoff, Rising Star Concert and Modest Mussorgsky at the Martinskirche at 19:30; February 27 tickets are CHF 35–90. For this Rising Star concert, German trumpeter Simon Höfele, accom- www.konzerte-basel.ch panied by Kärt Ruubel on piano, will be playing works by Théo Charlier, George Enescu, Maurice Ravel, Gabriel Parès, Eugène Bozza, Augustin Savard, Philippe Gaubert, and György Ligeti at the Unionsaal of the Volkshaus Basel at 19:30; tickets are CHF 30 for adults and CHF 15 for students. Mark Your Calendar! March 2019 Highlights www.konzerte-basel.ch Liestal’s Fiery Parade March 10

Marius Bear Fasnacht March 11–13 February 27 Badminton Swiss Open March 12–17 Marius Bear, often referred to as the “Swiss Joe Cocker,” is a singer and guitarist from Regio Messe March 16–24 Appenzell, who at age 25 is one of the most promising music talents in Europe. Currently Bummelsonntage March 17, 24 & 31 living in London, his first recordings and con- Baselworld March 21–26 certs have garnered him a great deal of atten- tion. His unforgettable voice and charisma are Basel Wine Ship (Wyschiff) March 28–31 unique—raw and unpolished, idiosyncratic and original. His style is a sophisticated, Daylight Savings Time Begins March 31 blues-infused pop music, which he adds to photo credits: © mike zito; © martha high; © markus & sabrina blum (explora—australia); © marius bear; © gregor hohenberg (stuttgart chamber orchestra) February 2019 35 Contact us for more information about subscribing or advertising:

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© susanne hiller

Ticket Office: Get Your Tickets Now! Who Where When Tickets Afrika! Afrika! 2019 Musical Theater, Basel March 20 www.actnews.ch Loreena McKennitt Samsung Hall, Zürich March 21 www.ticketcorner.ch Apassionata—The Magic Dream St. Jakobshalle, Basel March 23 & 24 www.ticketcorner.ch Joe Jackson Kaufleuten, Zürich March 25 https://kaufleuten.ch The Chinese National Circus Musical Theater, Basel March 31 www.actnews.ch Mamma Mia! Das Musical Musical Theater, Basel April 2–14 www.ticketcorner.ch Nazareth Z7 Konzertfabrik, Pratteln April 4 www.ticketcorner.ch Soy de Cuba Musical Theater, Basel April 17 www.ticketcorner.ch Beat It! Musical Theater, Basel April 21 www.ticketcorner.ch Le Cirque World’s Top Performers Musical Theater, Basel April 26–28 www.ticketcorner.ch Alan Parsons Live Project Z7 Konzertfabrik, Pratteln April 28 www.ticketcorner.ch Mumford & Sons St. Jakobshalle, Basel May 5 www.ticketcorner.ch Rod Stewart: Live in Concert Hallenstadion, Zürich May 7 www.ticketcorner.ch Mark Knopfler and Band Hallenstadion, Zürich May 9 www.ticketcorner.ch Metallica Letzigrund Stadion, Zürich May 10 www.ticketcorner.ch The 100 Voices of Gospel Musical Theater, Basel May 12 www.ticketcorner.ch Sergio Mendes Kaufleuten, Zürich May 12 www.ticketcorner.ch Eagles Hallenstadion, Zürich June 5 www.ticketcorner.ch Bryan Ferry KKL Konzertsaal, Luzern June 13 www.ticketcorner.ch Phil Collins Letzigrund Stadion, Zürich June 18 www.ticketcorner.ch Muse Hallenstadion, Zürich July 3 www.ticketcorner.ch King Crimson Augusta Raurica Open Air July 4 www.ticketcorner.ch Kiss Hallenstadion, Zürich July 4 www.ticketcorner.ch Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets Augusta Raurica Open Air July 5 www.ticketcorner.ch Beth Hart Augusta Raurica Open Air July 7 www.ticketcorner.ch Bon Jovi—This House is not for Sale Letzigrund Stadion, Zürich July 10 www.ticketcorner.ch Toto Z7 Open Air, Pratteln July 16 www.ticketcorner.ch Manfred Mann’s Earth Band & Glen Hughes Z7 Open Air, Pratteln July 21 www.ticketcorner.ch Pink Letzigrund Stadion, Zürich July 30 www.ticketcorner.ch Michael Bublé Hallenstadion, Zürich September 25 www.ticketcorner.ch Chris de Burgh Samsung Hall, Zürich October 26 www.ticketcorner.ch