Orpheum Theatre
Orpheum Theatre
4.5
About
Best known as the home of internationally renowned Vancouver Symphony Orchestra – the largest performing arts organization in Western Canada – the Orpheum also features regular performances by some of the city’s finest choirs, as well as performing artists visiting from around the world.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Central
How to get there
- Vancouver City Centre • 4 min walk
- Granville • 6 min walk
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
304 reviews
Excellent
207
Very good
78
Average
14
Poor
4
Terrible
1
Dorothy Gale
31 contributions
Dec 2022
I just wanted to post some seating info as I wasn't able to find much online when I was buying tickets.
We were at the Orpheum for a movie with orchestra accompaniment (Home Alone.) We sat in the third row downstairs. The stage is low enough that the kids could see, even in the front row. However, there is a bit of interference with the conductor's head, some of the musicians, and the lower edge of the screen. Also, from the front section, you can only see the front rows of the musicians, we couldn't see the horn section at all or the piano. Just the strings. I think the best seats to observe the orchestra are about halfway back on the floor, as you get a bit of elevation and you can see the back section of the stage. Or the front of the balcony/dress circle would be a good view of everything as well.
I also wasn't sure if the third row would be too loud for the kids, but it was not an issue. The show was very enjoyable and the kids had a good time too. The bar had small bags of popcorn, chips and candy along with wine, beer, cider, and soft drinks. Tipping is not allowed, but the price seems to include it.
We were at the Orpheum for a movie with orchestra accompaniment (Home Alone.) We sat in the third row downstairs. The stage is low enough that the kids could see, even in the front row. However, there is a bit of interference with the conductor's head, some of the musicians, and the lower edge of the screen. Also, from the front section, you can only see the front rows of the musicians, we couldn't see the horn section at all or the piano. Just the strings. I think the best seats to observe the orchestra are about halfway back on the floor, as you get a bit of elevation and you can see the back section of the stage. Or the front of the balcony/dress circle would be a good view of everything as well.
I also wasn't sure if the third row would be too loud for the kids, but it was not an issue. The show was very enjoyable and the kids had a good time too. The bar had small bags of popcorn, chips and candy along with wine, beer, cider, and soft drinks. Tipping is not allowed, but the price seems to include it.
Written December 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BeenThereEnjoyedThat
59 contributions
Jun 2019
Missed him at La Scala while in Italy during Easter. At $400 minimum for back of the house tickets, he was sold out at Carnegie Hall during trip to New York. Finally caught up to him in Vancouver for his performance in the Orpheum’s wonderful setting for classical music. Great sight lines from the upper decks with great acoustics and plush seating. Incredible concert! There were 3 standing ovations, with the first one lasting over 10 minutes to compel him to come back on stage to continue playing!
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gayan
Vancouver, Canada190 contributions
Feb 2020
As far as I know, this is one of the oldest and most ornate theatres in Vancouver. Being a young city, we are eclipsed by the historic buildings of much older cities, but the Orpheum takes you back to a time of grandeur that you won’t see in its contemporary counterparts..
As the home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO), there are events taking place at the Orpheum year-round. If you’re a lover of the orchestra, stop by the box office to try your luck at scoring rush tickets to an event happening on the same day. If you prefer to make plans, book your tickets online or join the VSO mailing list to find out what they have coming up.
As the home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO), there are events taking place at the Orpheum year-round. If you’re a lover of the orchestra, stop by the box office to try your luck at scoring rush tickets to an event happening on the same day. If you prefer to make plans, book your tickets online or join the VSO mailing list to find out what they have coming up.
Written February 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ross M
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Solo
I’ve never written a review in my life. I usually make fun of people who do. This is my first.
Anywho, this venue is stunning, historical and overall a treat to attend. That being said, They stop serving drinks at around 9pm…….
People with chaotic lives come from all over the province to see artists they adore. They get hotels, babysitters, hotels, Some like to let a little steam off and let loose for the night, aka enjoy life, have fun, stuff like that.
At the show I was at, there were hundreds of people trying to grab a drink and everything was shut down, 10 minutes into the main performer. The energy of the show took a hit.
It’s the most Vancouver thing ever. Honestly if they stopped serving drinks at 11pm I’d be bummed…. but 9pm? The show literally just started. No wonder people make fun of Vancouver. Don’t get me wrong I love this city but come on people. Also why not take a few extra thousand dollars to make sure the venue stays alive. So annoying.
Anywho, this venue is stunning, historical and overall a treat to attend. That being said, They stop serving drinks at around 9pm…….
People with chaotic lives come from all over the province to see artists they adore. They get hotels, babysitters, hotels, Some like to let a little steam off and let loose for the night, aka enjoy life, have fun, stuff like that.
At the show I was at, there were hundreds of people trying to grab a drink and everything was shut down, 10 minutes into the main performer. The energy of the show took a hit.
It’s the most Vancouver thing ever. Honestly if they stopped serving drinks at 11pm I’d be bummed…. but 9pm? The show literally just started. No wonder people make fun of Vancouver. Don’t get me wrong I love this city but come on people. Also why not take a few extra thousand dollars to make sure the venue stays alive. So annoying.
Written August 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christina C
Coquitlam, Canada6,334 contributions
Dec 2019
A group of friends went there last December for the Messiah. I didn't go there for awhile, but the elegant decorations, painted ceiling, interior and classic stunning chandelier still caught my eye. I don't mind to go there once in awhile to enjoy the culture and atmosphere. Happy Travelling!
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eva
Bothell, WA1,250 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
Had never been before so was excited to experience a concert here. Seeing Cigarettes After Sex here was a truly memorable event. I had front row seats and it was a spectacular show. The architecture is amazing and it’s very well kept. Highly recommend for a show.
Written August 28, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janice L
Richmond, Canada199 contributions
Inside it's so fabulous that the powers that be have kept the old world feel in the decor. I really enjoy concerts in this small intimate theatre.
Written January 22, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Newbie_Vacationer
Vancouver, Canada1,487 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
Recently went to see the Vancouver Chamber Choir and Pacific Baroque Orchestra. Great performance!
I have not been to the Orpheum for many years. Very nice venue. However, I must say 2nd row orchestra centre is not really that good. Farther back is better. I was getting neck strain having to look up the whole time.
I have not been to the Orpheum for many years. Very nice venue. However, I must say 2nd row orchestra centre is not really that good. Farther back is better. I was getting neck strain having to look up the whole time.
Written December 13, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Linda N
Vancouver156 contributions
Feb 2015 • Friends
Tea and trumpets with the VSO is a rare treat to watch for, Thursday afternoon at 2:00pm $40.00 per tickets however rush tickets are only $20.00 each sold after 1:00 before the performance. The Symphony brings tears to my eyes each time I attend, last week no exception. Oh, and the tea and cookies before the performance are a treat. The seniors crowd have taken over the audience but it is wonderful for any age to enjoy in this gorgeous venue.
Written February 9, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris S
Summerland, Canada16 contributions
Jan 2019 • Couples
We paid 200 each for best seats available to see Itzhak Perlman. Our seats were in the upper balcony. From there you can see nothing. Even if you can crane your neck enough to see past the person sitting in front of you, the stage is soooo far away the people look like ants. Luckily the sound was amazing and we enjoyed listening to Itzhak play even if he didn’t appear until after the intermission.
Disappointed.
Disappointed.
Written January 24, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I am seeing a concert tomorrow night at 8pm there for my first time there. Can i wear a golf shirt and jeans there? are cell phone photos allowed?
Written August 13, 2022
I'm attending a concert on Saturday August 13th 2022. I just read that taking photos aren't allowed in the Orpheum is that still true?
Written August 13, 2022
Deb M
Heffley Creek, Canada
Hi. Do I have to dress up if I buy a ticket in the "dress circle"? And where is the best place to park?
Written February 12, 2020
No, you do not have to dress up. Sorry, not sure where to park. Suggest out of down town. We take the sky train. Only a 2 block walk from Stadium station
Written March 5, 2020
Where is section 4 in the seating chart
when trying to buy tickets says section 4?
Written October 9, 2018
The Orpheum only has rows not sections, it could be row four in the dress circle or stalls, I suggest they Google the Orpheum seating chart.
Or phone the them.
Written October 9, 2018
Does a 1 year old need a ticket for concert if he doesn't need his own seat? (Wiggles tour)
Written July 21, 2018
What time can you get into the theatre for an 8:00 performance
Written May 3, 2018
I'm planning to attend a pop concert at the Orpheum. Is it better to select a seat in the lower balcony in the corner, or a more central location in the upper balcony? Which would be a better view?
Written July 26, 2017
If you are not going to sit closer to the front, I'd find a seat in the upper balcony and bring binoculars.
Written July 26, 2017
Where is the best seating for seeing a one-man musical show? Have never been to this theater and optimum seats can vary from what looks good on the map. Any suggestions?
Written March 14, 2017
There really is not a bad seat in the house; however, if you are wanting to see something close then I would avoid that upper balcony.
Written March 15, 2017
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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