The Neuchâtel Grand Council said a big yes to the credit of 2.5 million francs for the Swiss Cultural Capital 2027 project. An envelope accepted without opposition on Tuesday. The event will take place in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Its total budget amounts to 18 million francs.
“This event will make an impact and will make La Chaux-de-Fonds a recognized place of culture,” declared Alain Ribaux, State Councilor in charge of culture. It will put the city “in the firmament of Swiss, even European, culture. We hope the momentum continues beyond 2027,” he added.
This project has significant potential in terms of cultural, economic, tourism and social benefits. “The recognition of the Confederation gives a national scope,” explained Alain Ribaux. It also constitutes an important lever for strengthening the participation of private sponsors.
The General Council of La Chaux-de-Fonds unanimously accepted on October 29 an equivalent credit of 2.5 million francs. “The Confederation has just made a commitment. As the agreement is to be finalized, the real amount is not yet public,” added Alain Ribaux. A sum of the same magnitude as that of the municipal and cantonal levels – i.e. 2.5 million francs – had been mentioned.
The budget amounts to more than 18 million francs. In addition to public funding, Loterie romande should pay 3.5 million, sponsors 6.6 million francs and patrons 400,000 francs. Ticket sales for shows should bring in 200,000 francs.
The structure of the La Chaux-de-Fonds Swiss Cultural Capital association (CCS2300) was reviewed this spring to enter a new phase. Jean Studer, former Neuchâtel state councilor, was appointed president in March. In May, Simone Töndury, specialist in performing arts, was chosen as artistic director and Olivier Schinz, until then project manager, was appointed as executive director. /ats-tna
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