The new Zachary Visual and Performing Arts Complex, located on the Zachary High campus, was the site of a ribbon cutting ceremony last week for art, band, choir, drama and performing arts teachers and students, as well as school board members, district personnel and community and business leaders from the Zachary community.

The $8 million facility measures 37,000 square feet in size and took several years to complete. "This building has really been in the works now for about six years," said Scott Devillier, former director of operations for the school district and now the new superintendent over Zachary schools. "It was a long process, and it's been a long road getting here, but it is a beautiful building."

Guy Hopkins Construction were the builders, and Ryan Faulk, of Holly & Smith out of Hammond, was the architect of the new arts center.

The theater itself seats about 450 people. Directly connected to its lobby is a 2,100 square foot 'black box' that allows for rehearsal space, as well as smaller productions.

Flanking the theater is the art department which houses classrooms for art, painting, photography and sculpture, and rehearsal spaces, equipment rooms, audition rooms and practice rooms for the band and choir.

Choir students have a large room with a piano in which to practice, as well as four additional rooms, each with their own piano.

"We're thrilled over our new space," said Choir Director Jason Bowers.

"I know we'll put on some great performances in this building," Devillier said. "For now, our students are becoming acclimated with the lights and sound system."

Devillier acknowledged Vivian Anderson, who was in attendance, for starting the drama program many years ago at Zachary High.

The ZHS Visual & Performing Arts Complex was paid for by bond measures which voters have approved over the years since Zachary became an independent school district.