Skip Viragh Center for the Arts

Hastings+Chivetta began working on the campus of Chaminade College Preparatory School in 1970 and has completed over half a dozen projects for the independent Catholic institution. In 2002, Hastings+Chivetta updated the Chaminade Campus Master Plan and was commissioned to complete the first phase of the plan: a new Performing & Fine Arts Center.

The Performing & Fine Arts Center complements the historic Chaminade Hall, the campus’ signature building. The two-story facility is sited to be highly visible from the main campus entrance, with student and public pedestrian entrances oriented toward Chaminade Hall. An art gallery concourse connects the public and student entrances.

The facility contains two theaters: the 1000-seat Siefert Auditorium and the 160-seat Black Box Theater for more intimate performances. Also included are five visual arts classrooms/studios, a two-story scene shop, three ensemble band rooms, seven individual practice rooms, art galleries, department offices, and support spaces.

The drama, music, visual arts, and communications departments are housed in the building. Chaminade has an award-winning band program in which over 30 percent of students participate, as well as a leading drama and visual arts program. The new building celebrates the previous 26 years of band programs and ensures these programs can sustain continued growth for decades to come.