Vogelgrun, Art'Rhena. Foto/Photo: TES

Celebrations to Mark 80 Years End of the Second World War

Although Switzerland was neutral during the Second World War, it owes a lot to the courageous citizens of its neighbouring countries. As part of the celebrations to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, Art’Rhena (Île du Rhin – 68600 Vogelgrun) is presenting a programme dedicated to two brave citizens.

Theater: Simone Veil. Les combats d’une effronté

This show, first performed in 2021, is an adaptation of Simone Veil’s (1927-2017) memoirs, Une vie, the autobiography published in 2007. Director Pauline Susini has created a dialogue between Simone Veil and the character of a young student so that yesterday’s struggles resonate with those of today.

Saturday 18 January, 8.00 pm (in French)

The exhibition: Simone Veil  – Un Destin 1927-2017

For Simone Veil and her family, the 20th century began with a tragedy: deportation to Auschwitz with her mother and sister, where she experienced absolute horror. She was saved by the courage that marked her entire career, whose milestones are part of contemporary French history. The exhibition retraces her life, in 24 panels, from birth to pantheonisation through her battles and career.

From 5 to 25 January (in French)

Exhibition: Julius Leber: from Alsace to the German Resistance

The exhibition (Julius Leber: de l’Alsace à la résistance allemande.Une vie pour la liberte et la democratie/Vom Elsass zum deutschen Widerstand, ein Leben für Freiheit und Demokratie) aims to raise awareness of a little-known historical figure: Julius Leber.

Born in Biesheim (Alsace was still part of the German Reich) in 1891, Julius Leber (1891-1945) began his school career there, continuing his studies in Breisach and then Freiburg. A member of the Reichstag, a committed journalist and an opponent of National Socialism, Julius Leber was a precursor of European values. Little known to the general public, his exceptional career and courageous commitments deserve to be shared and studied.

From 5 January to 23 February: in German and French

(Source and further information: Art’Rhena)