Queen Elizabeth Theatre & Vancouver Playhouse

Home to the Vancouver Opera and Ballet BC, this complex has been a cornerstone of Vancouver's performing arts scene since 1959.

Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Queen Elizabeth Theatre cc licensed photo by *_*

The Queen Elizabeth Theatre is one of Vancouver's premier performing arts venues. Opened by Queen Elizabeth II herself in 1959, this spacious theatre and its more intimate adjoining partner, the Vancouver Playhouse, host a huge variety of world-class performances. From grand opera and elegant ballet to blockbuster Broadway shows and international music acts, it's a central hub for arts and culture in the city.

Why Visit the Queen Elizabeth Theatre?

  • World-Class Performances: As the home of Vancouver Opera and Ballet BC, you can see stunning, large-scale productions.
  • Broadway on Tour: The theatre is the main Vancouver venue for major touring Broadway shows.
  • Two Venues in One: The complex includes the grand 2,765-seat main theatre and the intimate 668-seat Vancouver Playhouse, offering a wide range of experiences.
  • Central Location: Situated downtown, it's easily accessible by SkyTrain and surrounded by restaurants for a perfect pre-show dinner.

What to See & Do

  • See an Opera or Ballet: Experience the magic of a full-scale production by one of the resident professional companies.
  • Catch a Broadway Show: Check the schedule for the latest hit musicals and plays on tour.
  • Enjoy an Intimate Performance: The Vancouver Playhouse hosts a variety of chamber music, recitals, and contemporary dance performances.
  • Admire the Architecture: The theatre's mid-century modern design, with its grand, glass-fronted lobby, is a notable piece of Vancouver's architectural history.

Food & Drink Options

  • Theatre Bars: Concession bars are located on various levels of the lobby, offering drinks and snacks before the show and during intermission.
  • Nearby Restaurants: The theatre is located on the edge of Yaletown and the downtown core, with hundreds of dining options within a short walk.

Pro Tips & Local Insights

  • Book Tickets in Advance: For popular shows like Broadway hits or classic operas, it's essential to book your tickets well in advance.
  • Arrive Early: The lobby is a great place for people-watching. Arrive early to enjoy a drink and soak in the pre-show atmosphere.
  • Check Both Schedules: Remember to check the event calendars for both the main Queen Elizabeth Theatre and the smaller Vancouver Playhouse, as they host different events.

Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes. See the official website for information about tickets and events.

Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Vancouver Playhouse Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Address: 630 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5N6, Canada

Phone: (604) 665-2193

Official Website: Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Vancouver Playhouse

Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Vancouver Playhouse Reviews

Rated 4.5 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating Beautiful venue with lovely staff. Easy access, smooth process, washrooms are clean. Everything in right order. I am happy that even my seat at the very far left side had a good view. And of course big thank you to Precious Wilson and Thomas Anders for not letting us wait for hours like Macy Gray and Commodore Ballroom did....
Yasemin Baraz - a month ago

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3 Star Rating Queen Elizabeth Theatre is definitely one of the best venues in Vancouver for theatre, concerts, and events. I really love the atmosphere and interior design — it’s a beautiful place to enjoy a performance. That said, there are a few major issues I think should be addressed. First, parking is extremely limited compared to the number of guests the venue can hold. There are parking lots nearby, but they’re quite expensive and, unfortunately, don’t feel very secure. I’ve attended many concerts here, and during the last one I went to (Thomas Anders), I paid about $20 for parking. When we came back, we saw many cars with their windows smashed — there was basically no security or supervision. Second, the number of washrooms is too low for the crowd size. You often have to wait in a long line just to use the restroom, which can be frustrating during intermissions. Finally, if you get hungry, the only snack option seems to be popcorn. And if, like me, you’re not a fan of popcorn, you’ll probably end up going hungry for hours.
Shahryar Vafaei (MR REVIEW) - a month ago

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5 Star Rating After the long, quiet stretch of COVID lockdowns, I made it a mission to rediscover the joy of live performances — and I’ve been going everywhere for a good show! Big or small, from Langley to White Rock to North Vancouver... and of course, Queen Elizabeth Theatre is high on my list. I’ve already visited several times this year! That said — I still feel a bit of lingering social anxiety in crowded places, especially when I have my child with me. The theatre was bustling, and when the classic “I need to go to the washroom” moment happened (as it always does with kids!), panic mode activated. The stairway leading to the restrooms is very narrow — only one person can pass at a time — and the line for the women’s washroom was completely blocking access for anyone else. I froze for a second. How do I explain to every person that I’m not trying to cut the line — I just need to escort my child? 😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫 Eventually, I told my son, “Why don’t you follow that nice gentleman ahead of us?” He looked unsure, but luckily, that very gentleman kindly offered to guide him to the men’s room and even brought him back out safely. Honestly, I was so relieved and grateful I almost cried. He even told me afterwards, “He’s such a well-behaved boy — washed his hands and everything!” 💖 To that kind stranger: thank you. You reminded me that Vancouver is still full of warmth and kindness — even in the most unexpected (and slightly stressful!) moments.
Ann Cheng - 3 weeks ago

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4 Star Rating I’ve been here several times for musicals and operas. It’s wonderful to have this venue, but the washroom is too small and can’t accommodate everyone during intermission.
J H - 3 weeks ago

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4 Star Rating The theatre is located in downtown walking distance from a handful of other attractions. It appears to be an older theatre but the seats have enough room to be comfortable. The incline is fine and you shouldnt experience any visibility obstruction. It has several concession stands where you can purchase beverages and alcohol. Great place to go to an event. If you are looking for parking, there are options at the locale or right next door at the Post which seems to regularly offer event rate parking.
Marc Velarde (Marc) - in the last week

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Directions

SkyTrain Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Expo LineStadium Station3 Minutes

How to get to Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Vancouver Playhouse by SkyTrain

No Buses Needed. From Stadium Station take the Beatty Street exit. Cross Beatty and walk (west) along Dunsmuir for 2 blocks to Hamilton Street. The entrance to the Playhouse is on the corner of Hamilton and Dunsmuir. The Queen Elizabeth Theatre is just a few steps further south on Hamilton Street.

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