was here today for my baby brothers graduation ceremony. absolutely LOVE the decor of the place... makes me wish i lived in the 50's or 60's when people would get dressed to the nine's to watch live theatre or concert.... the amazing high ceilings and chandeliers always captivate me... i was here for a russell peters show a few years back...awesome. the only problem i had....our family was taking photos during the ceremony..and we got in trouble by one of the 'ushers', we weren't allowed to take photos with flash inside. (huh? i never knew that....) what annoyed me was that every single person in the place were taking photos with the flash on...and i didn't see any other ushers go up to them to stop them from doing it. so i continued to take my pictures with flash and all!! i was kinda hoping for the usher to come back to bother me about it so i could point out to her that the entire place was twinkling with flashes... so why hasn't she stopped everyone else yet? yah, im being a smartass. read more

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Love the Orpehum! It's the best for intimate concerts, seriously. I actually got a free ticket to see Feist a few years ago but I went solo and it was the best. I had a balcony seat and could see everything perfectly. The sound in the room is so clear and vibrant. I also saw Cesaria Evora there once and that was coolio as well. It's glamour at its best. Concave ceilings in cremes and golds, plush crushed velvet chairs in burgundies and beautiful chandeliers adorn the walls. So elegant and classy, just like the people who go there to see concerts and such. read more

Classy venue and great acoustics. Been here for concerts, plays, and even a wedding. Classic opera house design and architecture. read more

Orpheum - Ceiling - Music Venues Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

The Orpheum is a beautiful hall. I've only been here for classical concerts but it has definitely filled its role and done much more. A very classic building, it almost feels like you're stepping back in time when you enter - crystal chandeliers abound and there is this grand promenade of staircases and overhanging balconies that makes it feel like the place for a debutante ball. Furnished with regal red carpeting with gold accents, it has a classiness that you'd think of in early 20th centuries Europe or perhaps Hollywood, particularly with the unobtrusive bars completely composed of black and reflective glass. And this is only speaking of the entryways into the actual concert hall! The concert hall has wonderful acoustics - it's slightly clamshell-shaped so that sound projects out to minimize destructive interferences (the science nerd in me coming out slightly), but it's not perfectly designed to do such because it can't open up like that to a full extent. It thus has a bit of muddy acoustics which can become a little apparent if you are hearing brass and percussion-heavy music, but it is perfect still when you are watching a solo performer - a Yundi Li, a Midori, or the crazy guy who played the sheng with the Seoul Philharmonic last year. The interior is as tastefully done as the outside. Dim lighting guides your way and is also chandelier based so as to not be too intrusive. The chairs are really comfortable - I have almost fallen asleep in them many a time - but what really captures me are the decorations on the wall, and the vaulted ceilings. It has a real airiness to it that makes the hall feel spacious, even when all seats are packed. There are rococo embellishments in the metalwork, and there are large latticeworks of dots that I always think of when I think of the Baroque. The performance pit is also well-lit, so you can see the players onstage with great clarity. Such a classic hall. I love it just as much as I love the modernity of the Chan Centre and its perfect acoustics. Together, they make my favorite places to sit and relax to classical music, aside from my couch or when I'm at the piano! read more

The architecture and structure is well worth seeing, however it is best to go to the theatre and see performances. There are many venues to choose from when you visit the city, from the VSO, to jazz concerts, dance and children's entertainment. The sound is quite good from many different locations, however it varies throughout the theatre. If you have some time, like old buildings and want to see some good entertainment, its the place to go. read more

Don't bother going to a comedy show here... the sound isn't that great (depending where you are) and you can't take drinks to your seat. I will review the Orpheum again when I have gone to a proper show for this venue. read more

One of the most beautiful theatres in Vancouver, The Orpheum is both incredible and historic at the same time. The interior's design is marvelous and the atmosphere reminds me of an old Hollywood era: classic and revered. I was here for TEDxVancouver, so I don't know what the acoustics are like in comparison to a music event, but the acoustics were pretty good. I also love the fact that it's on Granville Street - it's in the middle of everything so access is easy to public transit, shops, restaurants etc. I think the only thing I wasn't a huge fan of (at least in the beginning) was the fact that I got a little confused with the lay out. It's like trying to navigate through a maze in there! But at the end of the day, I got over it. I actually thought it was kind of fun. It's just a little annoying when you're battling through crowds of people. Gorgeous venue at an awesome location. 5/5. Review #26 - 30 Day Yelp Challenge. read more

Sure, the Orpheum is the most beautiful venue in the city, I won't argue that. However, when I go to a show at the Orpheum, I want to enjoy the show like I would at any other venue. If I want to take a drink to my seat, I want to have the luxury to do that. They serve you beer and wine in plastic cups, so it's not like you are going to hurt anyone with a glass that might break if you have one too many. And if you spill, you'll only be spilling on seats that are likely covered in stains when the houselights are up anyways. So why can't we have drinks inside the theatre? It's not the seats people come to the Orpheum to see, it's the lovely architecture, so if there are really sloppy people out there that spill, it won't really affect anyone's overall experience at the Orpheum. When I was there last night for the Pixies show (which was awesome btw) no one even sat down in their seat anyways! Which leads me to my next gripe: seated venues. Ok, I get it. There are old people out there that like to go to the symphony and drink expensive wine from champagne flutes and get all gussied up and sit down and relax (or chair dance, you know the old guys who actually wave their hands about like they are conducting the symphony?) Anyways, yes, these people probably want seats in a theatre like the Orpheum. It makes sense. For me, I like to be able to get up and dance, and sing along and clap my hands and jump up and down. This becomes very difficult when you are in a seated venue, especially when you only have that small stretch of leg room to stand up and do so. In the past when I have been to shows here and people have tried to "rush the stage" or sneak out of their seats and dance in the isles, they have been told to go back to their seat because the isles must be clear as a safety hazard. This makes sense too. But why on earth are you booking bands like The Pixies then, in a venue where you can't bring in drinks, and you have to stay in your seat? Oh right I almost forgot, because there are not enough venues in this city to accommodate live shows. Maybe it's not the Orpheum I should be rating 3 stars, it's the city and it's shitty licencing laws. read more

I've been here a few times for concerts and I have to say, despite the spectacular mouldings and chandeliers, this is not an ideal venue for the average band/artist. I don't feel it is suitable for rock n roll, loud pop, etc. It is better suited for acoustic performances, bluegrass, and soft Michael Buble types. Sound reverberates and bounces, causing echo-noise making it very difficult to enjoy the music. Quite unfortunate. Drink & food is overpriced. Personally, I find the seating to be quite uncomfortable. And there is not much gradation with the seats so if people choose to stand for a majority of the concert, you are also forced to....otherwise, you won't see a darn thing unless you're 5'9"+. Seats are also very unfriendly for tall people as they are VERY close together with no leg room. I'm 4'11 and felt absolutely cramped. read more

This is one of the better places in Vancouver to see a concert. The place is beautiful and the acoustics are stellar. Whether you're in front or in the balcony, it's a great view and an awesome place for a live show. There is so much history and culture in the building. read more

The most beautiful venue in the city with the most amazing volunteer staff that go above and beyond to make your experience a special one. So appreciative of their extra efforts on April 2 that ended in Chris Hadfield singing Happy birthday to my boyfriend. Epic! read more

Probably the most beautiful interior in Vancouver. The sound is impeccable and the seats are a lot roomier than the Q.E. Always enjoy this as a venue! read more

If you don't feel like involuntarily 'bouncin' to the beat The Orpheum is THE spot to catch a musical performance. It's history, older theatre decor and fantastic acoustics make it an experience rather than just a neat venue. I just had the pleasure seeing Thievery Corporation (April 22) and I can honestly say that The Orpheum had a lot to do with the show's massive success. Even though there is assigned seating and finicky ushers, the front row quickly turned into a dancefloor along with the majority of fans on their feet moving to Thievery Corp's infectious vibe. It's been years since I've a show of this caliber..years (and I see my share of concerts). Bless The Orpheum, bless Thievery Corporation and by all means go out and experience this beautiful venue for yourselves. read more

My favourite venue in Vancouver! I've seen everything from the VSO to rock concerts here and it's never disappointed. Seating is comfortable, staff are friendly, and the sound is excellent. read more

Been to the Orpheum a few times over the years - usually for some VSO concerts and most recently for the Conan tour. PROS: - gorgeous old venue (check out the roof mural) with amazing acoustics - probably the best sit-down venue in Vancouver with great views from the lower balcony - ushers are pretty good - they usually give you some slack if you're trying to take a picture or two, but will warn people if they are pretty much non-stop filming/shooting the show (which I find very distracting) - drinks are reasonably priced for a venue - highballs are about $6 and there's tons of lobby space to chill and wait for the show CONS - drinks are not allowed to seats (only water), so don't buy drinks too close to showtime. A bit of a downer, but this is a classy joint and I don't think even I would appreciate drinks being spilled inside the posh venue - energy is subdued in this place due to the rigid seating - standing is only cool if you're in a standing ovation. Stand too long and an usher will ask you to sit down. Can't really knock on the Orpheum for the rigid rules - it's not a place to get smashed and drunkenly dance to a band and they want to make sure everyone can see the show. Awesome venue for symphonies and stage acts. read more

This is the place to see someone you really want to listen to, not someone who should be playing the Commodore. I have seen acts such as Stephane Grappelli solo and Bob Dylan on this stage, I have bought last minute single seats for bands I just saw were playing that week. There is not a poor seat in the house I much prefer it over the Queen E for intimate concerts, I can understand the comment from those who want to dance about but that doesn't happen here it is after all the home of the VSO. read more

This is a pretty awesome venue. The sound is great. The acoustics held up to the highest standards I would expect for housing the two bands we saw that night. I'm happy we could choose seating, instead of hanging out like and standing like groupies. It reminds me of the Fox Theater in Oakland. read more

When your child wants to see Peppa Pig, you go see Peppa Pig lol The Orpheum is a beautiful venue with such history. The staff were more than welcoming and accommodating. $30 for a George light up toy is a bit much and the snacks were overpriced as well, but what can you expect? A smile on your child's face makes everything worth it! read more

This is probably the best place to see a live concert. it's small and intimate but the sound is the best in the entire city. No surprise there as it was sound renovated for the VSO. The venue itself is also the most beautiful venue. It's old and ritzy. The staff are good and make you feel welcome. read more

Amazing, I am transported to another time and place. The ambience is breathtaking and the accoustics are incredible. This theatre sets the bar for me and no other venue has ever come close. read more

I came here at least 4 times a year to see various rock and alternative shows. This is one of my favorite venue's in the city. I appreciate the decor and the preservation that the city has gone through to ensure that this continues to be one of the best theaters in the city. The bar and host staff are really nice. Regardless of what show you attend, you always feel classy here. Very great acoustics, especially for VSO performances. read more

Great place for live music...although somewhat odd venue for a grungy dirty rock show (the type I normally frequent). The sound quality is fantastic, and it's a really nice and comfortable venue. read more

Went here for a graduation. It was so beautiful. Its really easy access as its in downtown vancouver. There's lots of other shops, restaurants and activities to do in this area. read more

Big, bright, spaced. Nothing less that you'd expect from a high end theater in the middle of downtown.

The venue itself is stunning. Its architecture, and how well it's preserved are both admirable things. The acoustic of the place is also pretty great. The seats are very close to each other though, leaving very little space for that other part we as human beings have, called legs. I felt cramped in the balcony seat I had. At one point the crowd downstairs was leaving their seats and going towards the stage to get closer to the band that was playing (Avett Brothers), and I thought "maybe I can do the same!" so I went and asked one of the people in the staff if it was ok to do so. They have their rules -and I understand the answer being no (also understand that probably the best way to go was without asking). What really bothered me was how rude the tone of the person of the staff was. It pretty much killed my hype. "No! Go back to the seat you were assigned." and the buzz that I was getting from the music in this gorgeous theatre was gone, leaving me rather pissed about it. You probably have a great time if all you want to do during a rock concert is sit down. Myself... will think it over three times before doing so and getting an expensive ticket for the Orpheum again. read more

Sitting front row for a $25 single ticket ain't so bad. I came here to see the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra: Fifty years of James Bond. Amazing show. Hands down the acoustics in this theatre rock. The performers and orchestra is enhanced and magnified beautifully in this magical theatre. It is so beautiful in this theater...its hard to believe that this theatre officially opened 87 years ago on November 7, 1927. It originally was opened as a vaudeville house, showing circus like entertainment eventually evolving to a multiplex, bought out by Famous Players in the early 1970's. Does anyone remember watching movies here? I remember watching a few movies here way back in the day. Can't seem to jog my memory. I think it was Jaws. Do you remember which movies you watched here in the mid 70's? Eventually, the multiplex closed in November 1975 and re-opened in April 2, 1977, and became home to the VSO . And almost four decades later, it is still home to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. If you get a chance, go see a VSO show here. you wont regret it! A walk through time and history await you. read more

Orpheum - VSO- Fifty years of James Bond - Music Venues Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

my favourite venue in vancouver. sound is A+, they even have speakers at the stage lip so you can hear vocals if you have front and center seats. the inside is eye candy. read more

Today Nov 22, 2015, they over sold tickets and well over 50 people, do not have seats. Need to line up again to ask for refund.