About Vogue Theatre
The Vogue Theatre is a historic performing-arts venue in downtown Vancouver, known for its sleek 1940s Art Moderne design and eye-catching neon marquee. As one of the last remaining theatres from Vancouver’s old Granville Street “Theatre Row,” it opened in April 1941 as a first-run movie palace (premiering with the film I See Ice ) and live stage shows. The interior originally featured streamlined art-deco details – curved plaster ceiling coves with hidden lighting, terrazzo floor panels, and glazed terracotta pilasters – all reflective of its era. The iconic exterior sign is a towering neon structure crowned by a 12-foot figure of the goddess Diana, a landmark that still glows above Granville Street. After a five-year closure in the late 1980s, the Vogue was revived in 1992 and underwent full restoration to bring back its original appearance while adding modern sound and light systems. Today the theatre seats about 1,150 people across its main floor and two balconies, a capacity large enough for major concerts yet small enough to feel intimate. Recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada, the Vogue offers visitors both a top-notch live entertainment experience and a direct link to Vancouver’s rich cultural history.
Events and Programming
The Vogue Theatre’s calendar is packed year-round with live music, comedy, film screenings and community events – often up to 200 shows a year. The venue is primarily known as a concert hall, attracting a wide variety of performers. On any given night you might see everything from indie-pop and jazz to rock, metal, hip-hop and world music. Past headliners have ranged from Grammy-winning artists like Steve Lacy to veteran country-rock acts like Steve Earle, as well as local bands and genre-crossing artists. Comedy also has a place here – touring comics (such as Fortune Feimster) and local comedy troupes frequently play the Vogue, and audiences note the friendly staff and quick bar service that make these shows enjoyable. The theatre is also a fixture in Vancouver’s festival scene: it’s used as a venue for the Jazz Festival, the International Film Festival, and other special events, and is even hired for corporate or community presentations. Because the lineup is so diverse, one night might feature a folk duo and the next a hardcore metal tour. Notice that many shows tend to draw a very young crowd (teens and young adults), reflecting the hot ticket acts on the roster. Ticket prices vary by event – smaller local shows might be \$20–\$50, while major tours or special events can be \$75–\$100 or more. Overall, the Vogue provides a versatile space for eclectic programming: from rock concerts and stand-up to film screenings and corporate events, schedule a visit to see what’s on.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Vogue Theatre events can be purchased online or at the door, but it’s best to plan ahead. Most tickets are sold through the venue’s official agent or promoter pages, often many weeks or months before showtime. The Vogue’s box office opens only on show nights – usually one hour before the listed door time. If you buy tickets in advance (online or through authorized outlets), you can pick them up at will-call at that box office opening. (Bring the same photo ID and credit card you used to purchase the tickets to collect will-call tickets.) On busy shows, the box office staff will remain at their window until the show starts to assist last-minute sales or will-call pickups. Because many shows sell out, it’s wise to buy as soon as tickets are announced. A limited number of tickets may sometimes be available at the door if a show isn’t sold out, but do not count on last-minute availability for popular acts. Note that ticket charges will include appropriate service fees, and most sales are final. If you have questions about a purchase, the venue’s ticketing team can usually answer them on show nights or via email before the event.
Seating and Layout
The Vogue’s interior is divided into a main floor and two balcony levels. In total it accommodates roughly 1,133 patrons – about 586 seats on the main floor, 211 in the lower balcony, and 336 in the upper balcony. The stage is at one end of the hall, so almost every seat faces it. A key feature of the venue is that most events are general admission, meaning all seats (and any standing areas on the floor) are unassigned. Unless a show specifically lists reserved seating, arriving early is crucial for claims first-come first-served spots. The main floor has a gentle incline of removable chairs, whereas the balconies have fixed ticketed seats. Many patrons say front-center floor spots bring the most energy and closeness to performers, but acoustically the sound is excellent even up in the balconies – the original curved walls and tiered ceiling were designed to carry sound well throughout the hall, giving the Vogue a famously full, clear acoustic quality. For those using wheelchairs or with mobility issues, note that the entire ground floor is wheelchair-accessible (including accessible washrooms), but the balconies are reachable only by stairs. Customers needing guaranteed accessible seating should reserve early; companion seats at reduced price are usually made available. In general the middle of any seating section offers the best sightlines. Seats at extreme sides may be at a slight angle to the stage, so aim for center aisles when possible. Finally, a quick tip: since many shows sell out, don’t delay if you have a specific seating preference – line up early for the best choices, especially on all-ages GA nights.
Getting There and Parking
The Vogue Theatre is located at 918 Granville Street, between Smithe and Nelson, in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Public transit access is excellent. It’s just a few blocks from two SkyTrain stations – the Canada Line’s Vancouver City Centre station at Georgia & Granville, and the Expo/Millennium Line’s Granville Station at Pender – both about a 5-10 minute walk away. Many city buses run on Granville and neighboring streets; routes like the #4 Granville will drop you off right in front, and others on Howe or Seymour (such as the #2, #10, #14, etc.) stop within one block of the theatre. Buses also run late evenings on weekends. If driving, note that the area is entirely paid parking. There are several commercial lots within a couple of blocks (look for EasyPark or Impark lots near Nelson & Seymour) and metered street parking on Seymour and Howe, though spaces can be scarce at night. Rates in downtown usually run a few dollars per hour. A convenient option is to ride-share or taxi; the Granville Street entrance has curb lanes for drop-off. Taxis and Uber/Lyft are plentiful downtown. If you’re walking from nearby attractions, it’s only about a 10- to 15-minute walk from Yaletown, Coal Harbour, or the stadium area. In any case, give yourself extra travel time to navigate downtown traffic or find parking before a show.
Inside the Venue
Expect a lively, old-school concert atmosphere inside. As you enter at the street level, you’ll find the main lobby which has the box office window, a merchandise table and one of the bars. Up a short flight you’ll find another bar on the mezzanine. Key points: the theatre is fully indoors, with main-floor seating (or standing room) and two levels of balcony seating above. Security will check your bag at the door – only small purses or bags that fit under a seat are allowed, and no outside food or drink is permitted. The venue is cashless, so bring a debit/credit card for any purchases (tickets, drinks, merch). Speaking of: the bars serve beer, wine, spirits and light snacks (candy, chips), but note that prices are on the high side, so many guests eat beforehand. Restrooms are located on each level – the first-floor lobby even has a gender-neutral washroom – so you won’t have to leave the building until break time. Keep in mind that the coat check (on the second-floor lobby) often fills up quickly and can be slow to retrieve items after the show, so use it as early as possible if needed. During the show you can use your smartphone for pictures and messaging without restriction, but professional cameras or video equipment require specific permission from the show’s promoter (smartphone guns, GoPros and selfie sticks are not allowed). The Venue staff and security are experienced and friendly; one reviewer even noted they kept bar lines moving quickly during a show. In short, you’ll find the space dimly lit and decorated in its vintage style, but with modern amenities behind the scenes. The sound and lighting rigs are state-of-the-art, so whether it’s a rock band or a comedy act on stage, expect good clarity and atmosphere. Lastly, as a courtesy: the theatre maintains a strict policy on respectful behavior (no harassment or hate speech) and recommends patrons be kind to staff and each other – and yes, bartenders really appreciate a tip if you enjoyed your drink service.
Nearby Amenities
If you’re looking for things to do before or after a show, there’s plenty in the vicinity. Granville Street itself is lined with bars, restaurants and shops. A quick pre-show meal is easily found within a 5-minute walk: options include casual spots like diners, a White Spot on West Georgia, Vietnamese and Thai eateries along Smithe or Seymour, or grab-and-go places like pizza and sandwich shops a block east. For more variety, head a few blocks toward Yaletown or West Georgia – you’ll reach sushi, pub-style chains, and upscale bistros. If you want a drink in the area, note that Granville’s Entertainment District (between Smithe and Cordova) has many pubs and lounges open late. As one reviewer advised, many people often stop in nearby bars both before and after events. The venue itself has a coat check but not a full kitchen, so plan any full meal outside. Regarding hotels, the downtown core is full of options: for example, The Burrard Hotel (a boutique landmark) is just a couple blocks east, and larger hotels like the Marriott Pinnacle or the Fairmont Waterfront are only a short walk away. Yaletown’s accommodations (Opus, the W) are also within walking distance. The area is well-lit and busy at night due to entertainment, but it’s wise to travel in groups or pre-book a ride if you’re leaving very late. Fortunately, taxis and ride-hailing services are plentiful downtown, and the SkyTrain runs until after midnight most nights. In summary: you’ll never be far from food, drink or lodging – and many visitors make a whole evening of it by eating or hanging out in the Granville/Yaletown neighborhoods before and after the show.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Vogue Theatre’s unique charm comes from its combination of history, architecture and atmosphere. Architecturally, it’s a prime example of the Streamline Moderne style – sleek and futuristic for 1941 – and it still has that retro flair inside and out. Noteworthy design details include backlit wave patterns on the ceiling (originally meant to mimic a sunken liner’s view) and once-glittering murals with mermaids along the side walls. The marquee and 60-foot neon sign with its soaring Diana statue make the facade instantly recognizable – in fact, during its grand opening thousands of Vancouverites flocked to it under spotlights and the pavilion’s “gleaming modernistic façade,” according to newspaper reports at the time. Culturally, the Vogue has left a mark: initial audiences in 1941 included nearly 1,400 people inside along with as many outside waiting to get in. It was famous throughout the decades – when “Jaws” premiered there in 1975 the box office reportedly rang up a record-breaking $100,000 in its first weekend. In its current role, the Vogue is cherished as one of Canada’s great mid-size music venues. It even won a national performing-arts award for its friendly vibe and top-quality shows. On a different note, if local lore intrigues you, the theatre is rumored to be haunted: staff and performers have long told tales of a ghostly figure in the backstage-area “haunted hallway,” and of seats mysteriously sliding by themselves. Whether or not you buy into the ghost stories, that spooky reputation only adds to the theatre’s mystique. Above all, both audiences and artists love the Vogue for feeling intimate yet electric – the space is large enough for big sound but still cozy, so you never feel far from the stage. Many musicians comment on the theatre’s superb acoustics and strong sense of occasion (and hundreds of fans agree, judging by packed crowds at major shows). In short, the Vogue Theatre is special because it preserves a slice of Vancouver’s vintage glamour while remaining a vital, buzzing venue for today’s events. Raid that history for your own stories when you visit.
Visitor Tips and Information
For a smooth evening at the Vogue Theatre, remember these quick tips: Plan ahead: Arrive early if your event is general admission – lines start forming well before doors. The box office and coat check open about one hour before the show, and space in coat check can run out fast. Have your tickets (or confirmation), photo ID and the credit card used to buy them ready when you enter. Packing: Only bring a small bag that fits under your seat (larger bags will be searched or refused). No outside food or drinks are allowed, and the venue only sells snack items at the bars. Check your pockets so you don’t drop anything – if you do lose something, contact the theatre as soon as possible via their official channels (they keep a lost-and-found for a short time after shows). Dress and Gear: No dress code is enforced (just be sure you have a shirt and shoes on!). Vancouver weather can be rainy, so bring a coat or umbrella for the walk outside. Earplugs are handy for very loud concerts. Cameras on smartphones are fine, but leave SLRs and video recorders at home unless you have permission from the promoter. Finally, the Vogue is a smoke-free building (no smoking or vaping anywhere inside). Accessibility: The main floor is wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms. If you need special seating for mobility reasons, contact the theatre in advance. Otherwise, all patrons use the same entrance. Behavior: Enjoy the show respectfully – staff enforce a zero-tolerance policy on harassment or hate, so be kind to those around you. It’s essentially a bar environment, so maintaining a positive attitude and even tipping your bartender if service is good will help ensure everyone has a great night. In case of emergency, note the exits (there are clear signs) and any staff wearing “Venue Security” vests can help. By following these guidelines and arriving prepared, you’ll set yourself up for a fun, hassle-free visit that lets you focus on the performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How and where can I buy tickets?
Tickets for Vogue shows are sold online and in person. Official advance tickets are available through the venue’s authorized agents. The Vogue’s box office opens only on show nights, typically one hour before the advertised door time, for will-call and any door sales. It's best to buy online early if possible, since popular shows can sell out. For will-call, pick up tickets at the box office on show night with your photo ID and the credit card used for purchase.
Are seats reserved or general admission?
Most events at the Vogue are general admission (GA), meaning seating on the main floor is unassigned. You can choose any available chair or standing spot on the floor when you arrive, first-come first-served. (If a concert offers reserved seating, that will be clearly marked on the ticket.) If it’s GA, plan to arrive early to get a front-row seat or good standing position. The two balconies always use assigned seats once you’re inside.
What is the capacity of the theatre?
The Vogue Theatre’s capacity is around 1,100–1,150 people. The main floor holds roughly 586 seats, and the two balconies hold about 211 and 336 seats respectively. Of course, the exact capacity can vary slightly depending on how an event is configured (for example, use of extra standing-room areas or blocking off sections). But in general expect about 1,150 maximum if every seat is filled and all available standing area is used.
Where can I park and how much will it cost?
There’s no free parking on site. Downtown Vancouver parking is mostly paid. Nearby options include commercial lots (EasyPark or Impark) a couple blocks away – common ones are near Nelson Street or Seymour Street – and metered street parking on Seymour or Howe. Rates vary but plan on about \$2–\$4 per hour for lots, and around \$1.50–\$2.00 per hour for street meters (they usually work via pay stations or apps). Always read posted signs. If you want door-to-door service, using a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is convenient; they can drop you off right at the Vaughan’s entrance on Granville. Evening rates in the lots might be a flat nightly fee, so check the lot pricing in advance. The venue’s FAQ recommends several nearby lots within easy walking distance.
How do I get to the theatre on public transit?
Public transit is an easy way to reach the Vogue. The nearest SkyTrain stops are the Canada Line at Vancouver City Centre (exit at Granville & Georgia, just a few blocks north of the theatre) and the Expo/Millennium Line at Granville Station (just south along Granville). Several frequent bus routes also serve Granville Street and nearby Seymour/Howe – for example, the #4 Granville bus stops at Smithe and Nelson, a block from the theatre. Other buses like the #2, #10, #14 and night buses (N22, N35) provide service nearby. Just check the latest TransLink schedules and apps to plan your route, but generally you can get off within one or two blocks of 918 Granville on those lines.
Are children allowed or is it 19+ only?
Most events at the Vogue are all-ages, meaning children, teens and adults can attend together. The theatre does not enforce an overall 19+ rule, but some individual shows (typically late-night or explicit-lyric performances) may be restricted to 19+ or 18+. Always check the event listing before you go; it will clearly indicate if an age limit applies. If a show is all-ages, you and your family are welcome to attend.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the theatre accommodates patrons with mobility needs. The entire main floor is wheelchair-accessible (no stairs needed from the street entrance), and accessible restroom(s) are on the main floor as well. All accessible seating is located on the main floor only. The upper balconies can only be reached by stairs. If you will need an accessible seat, it’s best to email or call the venue in advance to reserve one for a reserved-seating show (they do allow a free companion seat next to it). For most GA events, the front main floor is open to all and provides space for wheelchairs without special reservation.
Can I bring a camera or record the show?
Smartphone cameras and small point-and-shoot cameras are generally allowed so you can snap a few personal photos. However, professional cameras or video equipment (larger lenses, DSLRs, camcorders, etc.) are not permitted unless you obtain explicit prior approval from the show promoter. Selfie sticks and external flashes are also not allowed, as announced by the venue policy. Basically, bring a phone or personal camera if you want casual photos, but leave any pro gear at home.
Can I smoke or vape inside the theatre?
No. Smoking, vaping, or any use of e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited inside the venue (it’s illegal under Vancouver’s bylaws). This applies to cigarettes, cannabis, marijuana edibles, or any vapor device. If you choose to smoke or vape, you must do so outside the building and away from the entrances. Violating this rule will lead to immediate ejection from the theatre without a refund, so please plan accordingly and respect the policy.
What items am I not allowed to bring?
Bring as little as possible for convenience and speed at entry. The theatre prohibits outside food or drink of any kind. Bags must be small enough to fit under a seat, and all bags are subject to inspection. Prohibited items include weapons, illegal substances, laser pointers, and anything deemed dangerous by staff. Essentially, if in doubt, leave it behind. The venue FAQ advises that any bag left behind to bulky will be turned away. By packing light you’ll move through security quickly and focus on enjoying the show.
Is there food or drink available inside?
Yes, but only at the in-house bars. The Vogue has two bar stations (one on the main floor and one on the lobby mezzanine) where you can buy beer, wine, cocktails and snacks like candy or chips. The venue does not serve full meals or outside food. Meals should be eaten beforehand or after the show. Note that drink prices at concert venues tend to be high, so some patrons prefer to have dinner or drinks at a nearby restaurant before arriving.
Is there a coat check and restroom facilities?
Yes. Restrooms are available on each floor – there are men's and women's restrooms plus a gender-neutral (all-gender) washroom on the main floor. The theatre also offers coat and bag check on the second-floor lobby (typically \$5 per item). Be aware that on busy nights the coat check lines can get long, so consider checking your coat as soon as you arrive. The staff recommends arriving early because collecting coats after the show can take a few minutes if many people use this service. Other amenities like merchandise tables are set up in the lobby for many shows.
Does the venue accept cash?
No, the Vogue Theatre is a cashless venue. This means all purchases – whether tickets at the box office, drinks at the bar, or merchandise – must be paid with debit or credit card (some digital wallet payments may be accepted too). There is no ATM inside, so come prepared with payment cards. Remember this especially if you plan to buy refreshments or souvenirs on site.
Are there gender-neutral washrooms available?
Yes. In addition to the standard men’s and women’s restrooms, the Vogue has at least one single-occupancy, gender-neutral (all-gender) restroom on the first floor. If you need assistance finding it, just ask the venue staff and they can point you in the right direction. This ensures that everyone has an accessible option regardless of gender identity.
When do doors open for shows?
Generally, doors at the Vogue open about one hour before showtime. The box office will begin admitting ticket holders at that time. You should check your specific event ticket for the exact “doors” time. For example, if a show is listed as 8:00pm doors, plan to arrive by 7:00pm to get inside, especially if it’s GA – lines often form early on popular nights. Last-minute arrivals may miss some or all of the opening act (if there is one), so early entry is recommended.
What is the dress code for the theatre?
There is no formal dress code at the Vogue Theatre. Casual attire is fine – most people wear jeans, tees, or smart casual clothes. Just note that for health and safety you must wear shoes and a shirt. If it’s rainy outside, consider bringing a jacket or umbrella since you will have to walk to and from other venues at some point. In general, people dress comfortably and stylishly for a night out, but nothing fancy is required.
Why is the Vogue Theatre historically significant?
The Vogue has significant heritage value. It opened in 1941 with great fanfare – local papers of the day describe thousands of people lining up under searchlights to see the big movie premiere and live band performance. Its fashionable Art Deco design was considered cutting-edge at the time. In recognition of its architectural and cultural importance, the building was later designated a National Historic Site of Canada (1993). Essentially, the Vogue stands as a preserved time capsule of Vancouver’s golden-era cinema and entertainment district, giving audiences today a feeling of “downtown in the 1940s.”
Is the Vogue Theatre haunted?
Over the years the Vogue has developed a bit of a spooky reputation. Staff and performers share stories of a ghostly figure seen in the backstage area (sometimes called the “haunted hallway”) and even anecdotal reports of seats moving on their own when no one is around. This dark-haired apparition has never been documented, of course, but it’s become part of the theatre’s lore. Many visitors find these tales add to the charm – just know that any “haunting” is folklore, and you’ll hopefully be too busy dancing or singing along to notice anything odd!
What should I do if I lose something at the theatre?
If you lose an item at the Vogue, act quickly. As soon as possible after the show, contact the theatre’s main office by phone or through their official website’s contact form to report the lost item. The venue typically holds found items at their box office for a short time after an event. Provide a detailed description and any unique markings (for example, Justin Johnston ID tags) and ask when you can retrieve it. Lost phones or cameras are especially important to report immediately. In the meantime, check with local lost-and-found services because sometimes personal items get turned in to nearby municipal locations. Being proactive gives you the best chance of getting your item back.
Is re-entry allowed once I leave the venue?
No, once you exit the Vogue Theatre after entering for a show, you cannot re-enter without a new ticket. The venue’s policy is that re-entry is not permitted for security reasons. This means if you leave to smoke, run an errand, or any other reason, you will have to stay out. Plan accordingly: use the restroom and check your belongings (or coat) before you head to your seat, because leaving mid-show is not allowed.
