A 5,000-square-foot performing arts venue is nearing completion on the campus of Central Valley High School, 4033 Central Avenue, and the public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony set for 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21.

Named for retired Ceres Unified School District music teacher Ricardo Campero, the Ricardo Campero Performing Arts Theater – or RicPAC, as CUSD staff have affectionately dubbed it – will house drama, band, choir, dance, and media arts productions by elementary and secondary students across the district. The black box design – complete with dressing rooms and a dedicated lighting and sound room – features a floor-level stage and 400 retractable seats that can be configured to accommodate a variety of needs.

“In addition to all of the many student performances we look forward to enjoying over the coming years, the facility is also available for community organizations to hold meetings and events when not in use by CUSD students,” said Dr. Kristi Britton, CUSD’s assistant superintendent of Business Services. “Our Board wanted to ensure that the theater both celebrates students and the arts and serves as a resource for our Ceres community.”

Campero, who retired in 2008 after a 25-year career helping students become musicians, continues to be involved with district programs and events. He said the reality of a dedicated performing arts venue named in his honor has yet to sink in.

“Every time I hear about it or somebody sends me a picture, it’s a whirlwind of emotions,” said Campero. “I don’t think it’s really hit yet. I think it will once I see a performance – I think that’s when it will really hit me. That’s very special.”

The district broke ground on the theater in June 2021. The first performances are anticipated when students return from the winter break in January.