About Pyramid Cabaret
(winnipegarchitecture.ca ) (pyramidcabaret.com )Constructed in 1930 as the Beattie Auto Electric garage, the Pyramid Cabaret is a two-storey brick live-music nightclub at 176 Fort Street in Winnipeg. Its stepped brick façade with a large garage door dates to that era (winnipegarchitecture.ca ). In 1988 the building was first converted into The Spectrum Cabaret, and in 1995 local promoter Dave McKeigan took over and renamed it The Pyramid Cabaret (pyramidcabaret.com ). The venue’s name and décor pay homage to Egyptian imagery: a large mural depicting an “Egyptian rave” scene covers one wall and an inukshuk sculpture stands near the entrance (winnipegarchitecture.ca ) (www.tripadvisor.ca ). Today the Pyramid Cabaret is a central fixture of Winnipeg’s music scene, having hosted touring acts from rock to electronic for over three decades – bands ranging from Bachman-Turner Overdrive to Teenage Bottlerocket have played there (pyramidcabaret.com ) (pyramidcabaret.com ). It remains a locally owned, independent venue, prized for its intimate scale (about 350–400 capacity (www.manitobamusic.com )) and eclectic vibe.
Events and Programming
The Pyramid Cabaret stages live entertainment most weekends and many weeknights. It features a wide variety of music genres: rock, punk, metal, indie, electronic and pop acts are all common (www.manitobamusic.com ) (www.mapquest.com ). Tour bands on national or international circuits often stop here, and the venue is also known for specialty theme nights and DJ events. For example, local party organizers run recurring nights like 1980s-themed “dark" dance parties, emo/alt nights and genre-specific DJ sets in the outdoor patio or main hall. It has also hosted comedy shows and community events on occasion. Each year the calendar is packed with dozens of concerts: older acts like KMFDM and GWAR have played here in the past (ogremind.weebly.com ), alongside rising local indie bands and electronic DJs. Because the Pyramid is essentially a general-admission music club, ticket prices depend on the show – many local or cover-band nights are under $20, while headlining touring acts may charge $20–$35. Shows typically sell out for popular bands, so fans often buy well in advance. Overall, the Pyramid’s programming emphasizes Canadian and indie talent alongside some classic rock and cult favorites (pyramidcabaret.com ) (ogremind.weebly.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets to Pyramid Cabaret events can be purchased through official outlets and promoters. There is no traditional box office, so tickets are usually sold online or at the venue door on the night of the show (if still available). Promoters often announce tickets weeks before an event via social media or mailing lists. For most concerts, a limited number of general-admission tickets are released well ahead of time; anything unsold may be held for on-site purchase. Because there are no assigned seats, a ticket simply grants entry. If a performance is likely to sell out, the best strategy is to buy early. On the day of a show, arriving at least 15–30 minutes before doors open can help you avoid long lineups, especially for late-night events. Fans generally rely on the Pyramid’s own website or official event listings rather than secondary resale markets.
Seating and Layout
(www.tripadvisor.ca ) (canadareviewers.com )The Pyramid Cabaret is a single large room with a stage at one end. The floor is mostly open for standing or dancing, but there are scattered high-top cocktail tables and booth seats along the perimeter (www.tripadvisor.ca ). Reviewers note it’s “not too big or small” with “lots of comfortable seating” around a centrally placed stage (canadareviewers.com ). The main stage is slightly raised, so standing near the front provides the clearest view of performers (though it can get crowded). If you prefer to sit or lean, side booths or bar tables offer a good sightline. Sound engineers are typically at the back of the hall, so standing a few feet back often yields a balanced mix. The venue’s acoustics are generally praised for clarity (www.tripadvisor.ca ), and lighting rigs point toward the stage for full visual effect. There is also a small upstairs mezzanine area at the back with a bar (in some configurations) that offers an elevated viewpoint. In warm weather, the fenced outdoor patio behind the building can be opened up – it seats around 200–225 people and is sometimes used for overflow or daytime DJ sets.
Getting There and Parking
The Pyramid Cabaret’s address is 176 Fort Street (just south of Broadway and Osborne) (pyramidcabaret.com ). The main entrance faces Fort St, and you can spot the inukshuk statue by the door. Street parking is available on nearby residential streets and in public lots. For evening shows, meter enforcement typically ends after 6pm, but posted signs should be checked. Several paid lots are a short walk away: for example, the Winnipeg Square Parkade (299 Fort Street) and 280–290 Fort St lots are within a block or two. Prices in private lots vary (roughly $5–$10 for the evening). Parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early helps. Rideshare and taxis: drop-off is easy at the Fort St entrance (no special staging area). Public transit is very convenient – Winnipeg Transit buses run along Broadway and Osborne nearby, so you can catch any downtown-bound or Pembina-bound route and get off at Broadway/Fort or Osborne/Fort. The Broadway rapid-transit corridor is one block from the venue, and routes on Osborne connect from all parts of the city. Check Winnipeg Transit schedules for exact route numbers, as they change from time to time. If you’re walking, the neighborhood (West Broadway/Exchange District) is lively – simply head south from Broadway on Fort Street and you’ll see the glass pyramid mural marking the venue.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, you’ll find a down-to-earth concert-hall atmosphere. Guests typically show ID at the door (the Pyramid is 19+ for most events), then head inside past the security check. The room has brick walls and an industrial feel; Egyptian-themed art (murals, memorabilia and the like) adds a colorful twist around the stage area (www.tripadvisor.ca ). There are two full bars (one near the stage, one toward the back) serving beer, wine and mixed drinks – reviewers say drinks are “reasonably priced” for a club environment (canadareviewers.com ). The bartenders will happily serve you throughout the night. Beyond bars, the venue has basic amenities: restrooms (upstairs and downstairs), a coat-check counter in winter months, and occasionally a merchandise table near the entrance for bands’ CDs or shirts. The Pyramid also includes a built-in sound and lighting package: it offers a professional PA audio system and stage lights for live shows (www.eventective.com ) (www.mapquest.com ). In fact, it has three projector screens available for visuals during shows (www.eventective.com ). Overall the vibe is casual and friendly: patrons often mill around talking, dancing near the stage, or chilling on the high benches. Live shows usually begin around 9pm after a warm-up DJ or opening act, so the club stays lively into the late hours. Staff and fellow concertgoers are said to be welcoming, making the Pyramid feel like a neighborhood “cool place to be” for music lovers (pyramidcabaret.com ).
Nearby Amenities
Just steps from the Pyramid Cabaret, the West Broadway and nearby Exchange District offer many dining and drinking options. For inexpensive pre-show meals or late-night food, spots like La Roca (a Mexican lounge at 155 Smith St.) and Corrientes Argentine Pizzeria (137 Bannatyne Ave.) are within a 5–10 minute walk. Both are popular for tacos, pizza and casual eats before you head in. Upscale choices include the Fort Garry Hotel restaurants (like the Oval Room) or the Fairmont’s Velvet Glove (each about 0.3 miles away) if you prefer a sit-down dinner or bar atmosphere. Closer still, there’s a cluster of pubs and cafes on Broadway (maple-friendly pubs, sandwich shops, etc.) – for example, The Handsome Daughter (61 Sherbrook St) is a lively restaurant/bar just north of the venue and often has post-show crowds. If staying overnight, downtown hotels like the Fort Garry or Fairmont Winnipeg are only 5–10 minutes’ walk away. In short, you can easily grab dinner or a drink in the block before a show, and late-night snack options (pizza, fast food, coffee) are a short walk once the music ends.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Pyramid Cabaret stands out for its blend of history, character and music legacy. Architecturally, it’s a distinctive 1930s building with a stepped brick roofline and unique decorations. The Egyptian-inspired mural (painted in 2004) and inukshuk give it visual flair unmatched by typical clubs (winnipegarchitecture.ca ). Inside, the modest club size creates an intimate concert experience – unlike big arenas, artists and audience are practically nose-to-nose, which visitors often praise. Culturally, it has earned a reputation as a Winnipeg institution: multiple sources note it’s been a “cool place to be” and an anchor of the local scene for 30+ years (pyramidcabaret.com ) (ogremind.weebly.com ). This history means many legendary or cult acts have passed through its doors.
Musicians love the Pyramid, too. Promoters and performers appreciate that the staff and owner (David McKeigan) know the touring circuit well, so they keep the sound hall well-equipped (with a robust PA and lighting) (www.eventective.com ) (www.mapquest.com ) and welcoming. Fans like that it books both emerging bands and veteran artists across genres. The friendly layout – with plenty of space to dance but also spots to sit and socialize – gives it a neighborly vibe. In short, whether it’s the building’s quirky exterior, its cozy cocktail tables and art-laden stage inside, or the legacy of countless great shows, the Pyramid Cabaret’s unique personality shines through. It’s more than just a music hall – it’s a piece of Winnipeg’s cultural history where local and touring talents connect with audiences.
Visitor Tips and Information
The Pyramid Cabaret is a general-admission live venue, so tickets/IDs are your top priorities. Always bring valid photo ID (18+ by law, as shows are restricted to 19+ unless specified). Bag policy: expect searches – large backpacks or outside alcohol are not allowed. Only small clutch or zip-top bags will be permitted. There’s no formal dress code; casual attire is the norm. It can get hot and crowded, so wearing comfortable shoes and layered clothing is wise. Earplugs are a good idea for sensitive ears, especially if you’ll stand near the front.
If you need accessibility accommodations (wheelchair seating, etc.), call ahead. The building is not fully ADA-equipped (e.g. some entrances have steps), but staff will try to help as needed. The restrooms are standard (no gender-neutral room); cashless payment may not be available everywhere, so carrying some cash is recommended (for merchandise or tips). Cell signal is usually fine inside, but there’s no public Wi-Fi in the venue. Coat check runs in colder months for a small fee. The Pyramid typically does not allow outside food or cameras (professional recording gear), so plan accordingly. Shows tend to start late – often doors at 8 or 9pm and headliners after 10pm – so arrive early for a bar drink or to secure a good spot. Finally, follow the venue on social media or sign up for updates if you’re a regular: that’s the best way to know about upcoming shows or any special entry policies (for example, themed nights or costume events sometimes have unique instructions).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pyramid Cabaret’s address?
The Pyramid Cabaret is located at 176 Fort Street, Winnipeg, MB (at Fort & Academy). It’s one block south of Broadway in the West Broadway/Exchange area (pyramidcabaret.com ).
What is the capacity of the venue?
The club holds on the order of a few hundred people. Official sources report the Pyramid Cabaret’s capacity as roughly 350–400 guests (www.manitobamusic.com ). (That’s mostly standing room; there’s no fixed seating.)
Are shows general admission or reserved seating?
All public events at the Pyramid are general admission. There are no reserved seats. Your ticket lets you enter and then you can stand or sit at high tables on a first-come basis. This allows fans to move around freely, but means early arrival can help if you want to stand close to the stage.
Who should I contact for questions about upcoming shows or ticket sales?
Check the official Pyramid Cabaret social media or its website for show announcements. Tickets are often sold through the event organizer or its approved outlets well ahead of the date. There is no public box office on-site, so look for information on the show’s flyer or post (promoters may list authorized online sellers). The venue’s manager (David McKeigan) handles bookings, but fans typically just use the advertised ticket link or buy at the door if available.
How much do tickets cost?
Ticket prices vary by event. For local or lesser-known bands, cover charges often range around $10–$15. For touring headliners or special nights, tickets are typically $20–$35. Charity or industry nights might be cheaper or even free on occasion. Always check the event’s promotion for the exact price. Drinks inside are reasonably priced for the area (canadareviewers.com ).
When do shows typically start, and what time do doors open?
Most concerts at the Pyramid are late-night events. Expect doors around 8 or 9 PM for a 9:30–10:00 PM headliner start. Exact times vary per show (some may open as late as 10 PM), so check the specific event info. Arriving right when doors open is a good idea for a first-come spot, especially on busy nights.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The Pyramid is in an older building and only the ground floor is accessible. There may be a small step at the entrance, so wheelchair patrons are advised to call ahead to confirm special accommodations. Inside, the main floor is one open area once you enter. The outdoor patio requires going through a doorway, so confirm if that’s needed. The venue tries to assist but does not have full elevator access to multiple levels, since it’s mostly on one floor (winnipegarchitecture.ca ).
Can I bring a bag or backpack?
Large bags are generally not recommended. At busy shows security will check bags and backpacks to prevent outside drinks. Small purses or zip-top bags are usually fine, but expect a brief inspection at the door. Coat check is offered in winter (for a small fee), so you can check bulky coats or bags there. In summer you may leave a light jacket at coat check as well.
Is photography or video recording allowed inside?
Rules on photos/videos depend on the artist. Many bands prohibit professional cameras at the venue. Personal phone photos (no flash) are usually tolerated, but you should turn off flash. Large cameras or recording gear will likely be asked to check them. Basically, casual phone snapshots are okay, but respect any “no cameras” policy posted for the show.
Is smoking allowed inside or is there a smoking area?
No smoking is permitted inside the building. The bar area and hall are nonsmoking. However, the outdoor patio does allow smoking, and you can step outside on the patio during the show if you need a cigarette break. (Ask staff about accessing the patio up front.)
What are the parking options and costs nearby?
There is no dedicated Pyramid parking lot, but several pay lots are a short walk from Fort Street. For example, the Winnipeg Square Parkade (299 Fort St) and the Impark lots at 280 Fort or 165 Hargrave are within 2–3 blocks. Evening flat rates in these lots are usually around $5–$10. Street parking runs along Fort and nearby side streets (often free after 6pm). Always check signs. Riding transit or a taxi/ride-share (dropoff at Fort St entrance) can save the hassle of parking.
Is food served inside the Pyramid Cabaret?
The Pyramid is primarily a music venue and does not operate a full kitchen for regular shows. There is a small service kitchen for events (often used for catering private parties), but for public shows you can’t normally order meals there. You are encouraged to grab a bite at a nearby restaurant before the show (lots of options in the block). Soft snacks or simple bar food (like chips/pretzels) might be available at the counter, depending on the event, but plan to eat elsewhere prior.
What is the typical dress code or atmosphere?
Dress is casual. Concertgoers usually wear jeans, t-shirts, sneakers or boots. Some patrons like to match a theme on special nights (e.g. goth gear for industrial shows, retro outfits for an 80s party) but no formal attire is needed. The vibe is relaxed – just dress for comfort and the weather. Remember you’ll likely be standing and dancing, so layers are smart (it can be hot inside). There is no coat or hat ban, so wear what you want.
Does the Pyramid Cabaret have accessible restrooms?
The Pyramid has standard single-stall restrooms (one men’s, one women’s) on the main floor. There is also a third unisex/family washroom upstairs by the bar. The restrooms are not fully wheelchair-sized, and they use standard stall doors. If accessibility is critical, mention this to staff – they may be able to guide a wheelchair user to the most accessible options.
What kinds of events can the Pyramid Cabaret host beyond concerts?
The venue is extremely versatile. Besides rock and music concerts, it can host DJ nights, comedy shows, corporate parties, fundraisers, wedding receptions and more (www.eventective.com ) (www.eventective.com ). In fact, the Pyramid offers venue rental for events expecting 200+ people, and in some cases even waives the rental fee to support community events (pyramidcabaret.com ). If you have an idea for a large gathering, contact the venue – they pride themselves on being an all-purpose event space.
Is there an official website or social media I should follow?
Yes. The Pyramid Cabaret’s own site and social platforms are listed with its name. (For example, they often post show announcements on Facebook and Instagram.) Always look for official branded pages with the venue’s name – not fan groups – when checking dates and ticket info. The venue’s official posts will have the most accurate scheduling and door policies.
