Scrapyard is a small artist run theatre space in Paldi Ahmedabad that hosts independent events. It has been originally initiated by theatre artist Kabir Thakore in the backyard of his own house under a neem tree. The Scrapyard defies any strict architectural principles, rather gathers peoples in its folding crevices and hovering balconies for any event. I went to the place to attend the event 'Songs of Resistance' on the eve of the 80th Independence day of India where several groups of poets, performers and singers were invited to recite and perform songs of resistance in the backdrop of the ongoing nation wide Gen Z and Gen Alpha protests happening all across the country in demand of fair infrastructure for education.
The place saw a humungous turnout of around 150 people who gathered from different corners of the city and beyond (from Gandhinagar). The place was intimate, cozy and warm - and despite the eventual drizzle in the evening which grew into soft rain, performances and people continued to occupy the place under open umbrellas. The floor was all wet, but spirit was high. Amongst a lovely diverse audience of people young and old, cutting across genders, straight and queer, the Scrapyard became a mini vestibule holding small roars of resistance.
I hope I am able to visit this space again in a little more daylight to see in more detail the serendipitous spaces that fold into its architecture. Meanwhile, the space already echoes resistance in defying taught design regiment.
I hope I am able to visit this space again in a little more daylight to see in more detail the serendipitous spaces that fold into its architecture. Meanwhile, the space already echoes resistance in defying taught design regiment.
