The end of an era

Last night I said goodbye to The Jazz Garden.

The place that started me off on my own productions, where I've staged over a dozen plays since 2001. The place that redefined me and which I redefined, showing people that theatre didn't demand elaborate sets and fancy lights. The place that showed that theatre would always survive.

It was sad and strange to see the unfinished stage, which we had always been assured would be ready by the next production, but which we knew would be in its unfinished form nevertheless, the next time we draped a black backdrop.

The Jazz Garden has closed down for good.

Tomorrow, another owner will put into operation his vision for a restaurant by the river. But last night, The Jazz Garden rocked once again, as she did nine years ago when Pune's first and only Jazz band kicked her off.

I never thought I'd ever use the words "end of an era," for I've always believed in new beginnings.

But last night, it was the end of an era.

There is no more Jazz Garden.

There will always be a Jazz Garden.

Deepak