Police are seeking people who may have seen anyone outside the building that was destroyed by fire June 13 on the University Laboratory School campus in Manoa.

No one was injured but the fire reported at 3:48 p.m. caused $6.5 million in damage. The 67-year-old L-shaped wooden building housed the school's performing arts center for drama, theater and music; a physical education room and athletic office; and offices for some College of Education Research and Development Group personnel.

Honolulu Police detective Gary Lahens said yesterday the fire was intentionally set outside the building on the 'ewa side near the drama room. Anyone who may have seen people near the 'ewa side stairs or the grassy area near the building is asked to call Lahens at 529-3115 or call CrimeStoppers at 955-8300 or *CRIME on a cellular phone.

Lahens said some people were in the area where the fire started but declined further comment. The case is being investigated as first-degree arson, which is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or a $50,000 fine.

Peter Estomago, the Lab School's interim principal, said yesterday that the first day of the 2006-07 school year is Aug. 21 and that the athletic, PE, chorus, drama and orchestra programs will go on. "They'll be somewhere on campus," Estomago said.

The school is also planning a public ceremony at 4 p.m. Thursday at the fire site. Parents and students have been notified by mail. Alumni and the public are welcomed to attend, Estomago said.

Reach Rod Ohira at rohira@honoluluadvertiser.com.