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.
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)
- The Orpheum: Another of Vancouver's historic theatres is just a few blocks away.
- BC Place Stadium: Located right across the street.
- Vancouver Public Library (Central Branch): An architectural landmark in itself, located one block away.
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 out of 5
Amazing theatre! The staff are friendly and accommodating. The theatre is very accessible for all. Everything I saw was kept in excellent condition. The lighting and sound are state-of-the-art. It's clear the theatre is run by professionals. With a wide variety of shows happening here, you're bound to end up here sometime, and you're sure to have an enjoyable experience!
Jared Bayley - 4 months ago
Watched Sugar Sammy and Nikki Glaser here. It is a good size, cozy venue for comedy shows. It is very near the Stadium Chinatown skytrain station and very convenient to commute to it. A lot of food places around the area as well. It is right beside Browns Social House. The seats are a little small but are comfortable with plenty of leg room. Washrooms are clean. Concession areas are on all floors and it is easy to get your food and drinks before the shows. Queen Elizabeth Theatre is a beautiful venue.
Charles Vasquez - 4 months ago
It's a huge, large stage, nice sitting arrangement number of seats are more than sufficient. The ambiance is also nice.
Sudhi Mudgal - 2 weeks ago
Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Stadium Station | 3 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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Accommodations near Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Vancouver Playhouse:
Photo Gallery
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Reception area inside Vancouver's Queen Elizabeth Theatre cc licensed photo by Michael Francis McCarthy
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