Keep going like zombies: moving forward to rethink the movement

In this workshop, participants are invited to rethink movement starting from the desires and possibilities of their own bodies. The workshop is part of Chiara Bersani’s broader research project, Left Behind. Drawing inspiration from the conventions of the horror genre, the artist explores whether certain marginalized groups can generate fear as well as experience it.

The performance interrogates the present. Zombies are the starting point: bodies that never stop moving. Performers with and without disabilities become zombies. They walk. They keep going. A misplaced gesture. A parasitic action in public space, where something else is already happening.

They ask: What kind of zombies are we becoming? Walking becomes an exercise. A way to stay. A way to move forward. And perhaps, simply, an invitation: is it possible to desire to become like us? What does it mean to keep moving forward when moving forward seems to be the only possible form of existence?

The workshop explores, both physically and conceptually, the possibility of moving forward. It is open to persons who want to enjoy movement and be part of a group, with or without mobility disabilities and with or without previous performance experience. Access needs are taken care of during the workshop.

Interested individuals can register via E-Mail by 31.10.2026.

To register, please send the following information to workshops@gessnerallee.ch and direzione@chiarabersani.it 

• A few sentences describing your interest in the workshop and what background or practice you’ll bring into the space.

• Your preferred communication language(s) (German, English, or both)

• If applicable, the accessibility offers you would like to use during the workshop.

• If you have other access requirements, please let us. We will let you know whether we can offer them as part of this workshop.

• Your dietary requests

Applications are also welcome in audio or video format (max. 5 minutes).

There is a maximum of 20 participants. You will be notified until November 15, if you can take part.

Questions about accessibility can be sent in written or audio format to: workshops@gessnerallee.ch

Workshop schedule

Get in
from 9.30 - 10.00

Workshop Part 1
10.00 - 13.00 

Lunch break
13.00 - 14.30 – A warm vegan & vegetarian lunch will be provided at Gessnerallee for free

Workshop Part 2
14.30 - 18.00

Get out
18.00 - 18.30

• Wheelchair accessible 

• Covid Safer Space: The workshop will be held as a Covid Safer Space. Testing is compulsory. Wearing masks is compulsory for public moments. Tests and masks are available at the venue.

• Different options to sit or lay down will be provided, like beanbags, chairs, a mattress and cushions. 

• There is a maximum of 20 participants.

• Air filtration: The workshop space has two CO₂ filters that provide a good air quality. 

• Language: The workshop will be held in spoken English (Whisper translation into German and Italian can be provided)

• For more information, please contact us via workshops@gessnerallee.ch