PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: Architecture as a Raag Final Year

Abstract

Performing artists have been blowing people away through their incredible performances since forever. Similarly, architecture should be able to excite and leave its users in awe. This thesis explores what architecture is capable of, if given the freedom of expression. Research has shown that people visit and stay longer at places that are able to engage them with their surroundings. Architecture has been reduced to the function of sheltering yet it has the potential to do so much more than mere housing its user. Digital media and technology are evolving everyday leaving no place for live performances. This thesis aims to revive performing arts by providing a platform for performers where they can showcase their talent, entertain the audience and teach performing arts skills. Architecture for these programs will be inspired by Indian classical music and will act as a performer so that people visiting the building could engage with it and see what frozen music looks like. A specific set of ‘swaras’ in music makes ‘thaat’ on the basis of which raag and melody is derived. Similarly, in this thesis site will act as ‘thaat’ and the form will originate from that.