Vancouver

Performing Arts

Vancouver is renowned for its rich cultural fabric. The performing arts are an integral part of the quality of life enjoyed by Vancouver residents and tourists alike.

In Greater Vancouver there are 670 non-profit cultural organizations, 120 theatres, 110 motion picture production and studio companies, 91 dance schools, 90 music schools, 24 theatre schools, 21 municipally-owned cultural centers/art studios, 15 television production companies, and eight television stations.

Studies indicate that as many as 80 percent of the region's adult residents attend cultural events each year. Many travel from within the region to Vancouver where major events are held in the city's numerous venues.

The Orpheum, built in 1927, is home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and several choirs. Performances entertain 400,000 patrons, 200 nights every year.

The Ford Centre for Performing Arts, which opened in 1995, features large touring productions, such as the Phantom of the Opera, Ragtime, and Riverdance.

The Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Playhouse is where smaller touring Broadway musicals, opera, and dance performances are staged. It also is home to the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company.