The introduction of a performing arts hall in Venice marks a milestone in culture for the city, but it also shows the result of synergy between local agencies combining resources to bring infrastructure that boosts both the performing arts scene in Southwest Florida and the opportunities in our schools.

"We're always working on collaboration with Sarasota County governments," said Scott Ferguson, spokesman for the Sarasota County School District. "Sometimes the ideas come from us and sometimes they come from others."

In the case of the construction of the 51,562-square-foot Venice Performing Arts Center, the idea originated with the Venice City Council, who worked with the Sarasota County School Board to bring about a world-class musical and theatrical venue. A ribbon-cutting was held Thursday for the new center.

The $15-million facility was paid for primarily through a one-cent sales tax that produces revenue shared by the city, county and schools. The new center was designed by Schenkel Architecture and constructed by Gilbane Building Company.

From here, officials from Venice High and the school district will be responsible for running the venue, but the collaboration between agencies has left the school with a venue that seats 1,070 and community groups with an outstanding stage on which to perform. "It's a win-win," Ferguson said.

Today the Venice Concert Band will play on the stage, and Thursday there will be a Rotary Futures College Workshop there, while the Venice Symphony already has shows booked from Nov. 20-22 and Exsultate! has a performance scheduled on Dec. 7. Meanwhile, the Venice High School Chorus Madrigals will perform Dec. 4-6.