Skrappy’s has moved out of the basement of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tucson building at 160 E. Alameda St. and is on temporary hiatus while a search for a permanent location continues. Watch this space for news about its reopening.

Skrappy’s is a drug- and alcohol-free performing arts center founded in 1995 by parents Kathy and Bill Wooldridge, along with youth involved in underground punk bands in Tucson. The center’s mission is to provide a safe and positive environment in which youth have freedom of expression through music, drama, art, dance, journalism and civic engagement.

Last year, 5,300 young people went to Skrappy’s. The Skrappy’s community consists of alternative and mainstream youth, including LGBTQ youth, and young people from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, primarily ages 12-23.

Hundreds of youth each year receive services beyond the basic activities of the center that aid in improving their lives, address crises, and help them in making healthy choices. Skrappy’s offers on-site food and clothing banks.

Skrappy’s holds regular classes and workshops, including break-dancing and Capoeira, sewing and fashion design, and various film, media and theater arts. Youth serve on committees to plan events and help each other with homework. They also organize numerous free community events to reach out to youth, including health fairs. Skrappy’s has computers and printers for young people to use for school or job-hunting.

In addition, Skrappy’s has provided the opportunity for youth to develop and articulate political positions on issues they care about. They are encouraged to attend and speak at community forums, conferences, political workshops, town hall meetings, city council meetings and neighborhood events.

Skrappy's Website