Queen Elizabeth Theatre & Vancouver Playhouse

I had the privilege of attending Rishab Rikhiram Sharma’s “Sitar for Mental Health” performance at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre and it was an absolutely transformative evening.  From the moment the lights dimmed, the soothing resonance of the sitar filled the space with a calming energy. Rishab is not just a virtuoso sitarist — he’s a true mental health advocate, and the way he weaves meditation, breathing exercises, and heartfelt reflection into his performance creates a deeply immersive, healing experience.  A few highlights that stood out: • Musical Mastery: He is a disciple of the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, and his playing carries that lineage beautifully — technically powerful, but also deeply emotional.  • Mindfulness & Healing: The show opened with grounding breathwork, then followed with slow, meditative ragas. It felt more like a guided journey inward than a traditional concert.  • Connection: He spoke honestly about mental health, his own struggles, and why music matters. It wasn’t just performance — it was a space to feel seen, to reflect, and to heal.  • Venue: The Queen Elizabeth Theatre was a perfect setting — acoustically warm and intimate enough that you could feel every vibration as if it were resonating inside you. Overall, if you ever get a chance to see Rishab perform, do it. This isn’t just a concert — it’s a powerful reminder of how sound, tradition, and vulnerability can come together to bring calm, joy, and meaning. Thank you, Queen Elizabeth Theatre, for hosting such a soul-nourishing event. I’ll definitely be back for more.
Amit Thakur - a month ago

Today, I had a wonderful experience volunteering at the convocation ceremony. It was truly inspiring to see the pride in parents’ eyes and the power of dreams becoming reality as students celebrated their achievements in a new country. I was also impressed by how the team and faculty supported and encouraged the graduates, offering their best wishes for a bright future. Every moment of the ceremony felt meaningful—I didn’t lose focus even for a second. The happiness of the students, the pride of their families, and the Chancellor’s warm wishes made this a memorable and uplifting experience. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to be part of such a special day.
Kiran Jot - a month ago

Approx 2,750 seat theater built in the late 1950s and named for the former Canadian Monarch. Remodeled in the 1990s through 2010. It is operated by the City of Vancouver. Originally built for the Vancouver symphony Orchestra - now based at the Orpheum Theater on Granville Street - The QET is now the home of the Vancouver Opera and Ballet BC. It also hosts various other musical events year-round. The main hall works well acoustically, aesthetically and architecturally. The lobby feels a bit like a nice cruise ship and is in need of a reimagine to reflect its function as one of the city’s premiere cultural gathering places.
Erik Johnson - 2 months ago

Beautiful theater and wonderfully maintained. Acoustics, llighting and a dynamic stage are amazing. Have been watching many performances over 5 plus years. Always a pleasant experience.
William Allaye-Chan - 2 weeks ago

QET is a welcoming open space with a medium sized theater that makes the concerts and performances that you attend here approachable. The space has interesting chandeliers and a warm view. I enjoyed the Rishab Sharma concert. Nitpick: the lighting during the concert was harsh and intrusive.
maddiee S - a month ago