Lausanne’s selection of theatre, dance and music is exceptionally rich for a city of such a modest size (approximately 125,000 residents). Simply look at the calendar of cultural events; you almost don’t know which way to go. The tradition of the stage has long been a part of Lausanne. In the 18th century, around a dozen theatres performed shows for the city’s 7000 residents. In 2006, nearly 150,000 people flooded into theatres, and 190,000 people were present at events in the various concert halls. Nearly 50,000 attended dance performances.