Students and staff at Foothills Composite and Alberta High School of Fine Arts gathered in their new theatre yesterday to celebrate the grand opening after a two- year long modernization project.

Vince Hunter, school Principal, says although this project took some time to complete, it was well worth the adjustments that were required.

"I think it's just another step forward in providing kids with the ultimate physical environment to learn in, which just compliments the great kids we have in our school," he said.

Hunter says the upgrades have made a world of difference to the students and staff, as well as the quality of the learning common.

"There's not much that we didn't replace. Really, when you step back, it really is a different building. When people come back that have graduated, or were here prior to the mod, they're wowed by how everything has changed," he said.

The 25 million dollar project, headed by Drew Chipman behind the scenes and Jen-Col Construction as the contractor, fostered a complete renovation to most of the building, including a new theatre, band room and automotive's department, as well as technology upgrades and structural renovations.