The Performing Arts in Vancouver

Three major theaters in Vancouver regularly host touring performances. The Orpheum Theatre (601 Smithe St.; tel. 604/665-3050; www.vancouver.ca/theatres) is a 1927 theater that originally hosted the Chicago-based Orpheum vaudeville circuit. The theater, which got a much-needed interior makeover for the 2010 Winter Games, now hosts the Vancouver Symphony and pop, rock, and variety shows. The Queen Elizabeth Theatre (650 Hamilton St.; tel. 604/665-3050; www.vancouver.ca/theatres) is home to the Vancouver Opera and Ballet British Columbia. Located in a converted turn-of-the-20th-century church, the Vancouver East Cultural Centre (the “Cultch” to locals; 1895 Venables St.; tel. 604/251-1363; https://thecultch.com) coordinates programs of avant-garde theater productions, performances by international musical groups, and children’s programs.

Meanwhile, on the UBC campus, the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts (6265 Crescent Rd.; tel. 604/822-2697; www.chancentre.com) showcases the work of UBC music students and local choirs, and hosts various concert series. Designed by local architectural luminary Bing Thom, the Chan Centre’s crystal-clear acoustics are the best in town.