I attended 2 comedy shows here (Ashley Gavin last year & Jessica Kirson this year). Both shows were great. The theater has a parking lot near by and was pretty easily accessible by transit. The closest subway station is Dufferin. The bus line would be 29C. They will fill your empty water bottle if you happen to bring one. Floor seating was pretty spacious. The balcony seating felt a little squish/cramped. read more

Queen Elizabeth Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I wish to leave this post as immediate testomony to as to what took place at queen Elizabeth theatre on the wed Aug the 7th 2025 at 9pm at the event "The dreamverse: young stunners & friends." For which I had legally obtained rights to entry by virtue of purchasing a ticket to attend (attached). I had gained entrance to the event and was inside the show and was waiting for the show to start with a friend and his wife. We decided to step outside for a cigarette and some fresh air, but got separated as we left. When I reached the exit my friend has already exited the premises. I witnessed some commotion at the gate as I exited and thought better than to risk being caught in the rush and thought to reagin entry back the way I had come out. I decided to speak with the man at the door who seemed to be a manager of the opeartion. This man was a white male about 5'10" tall. He was wearing baseball hat and a grey shirt (I learned later from other staff that he was the general manager of security). As I asked this person the question of how to get back inside, he said that I must leave and gestured for me to exit (I request access to the video tapes that corroborate this as evidence). I said that I would prefer to just go back the way I had come out as that was the reason I had come to speak with him in the first place. At this point he inexplicably lost his temper in a manner that bordered on abusive and violently pushed me to exit. I stood my ground and demanded rentry by the same door by which I had exited. he refused and pushed me physically to deny entry. At this point he said the words, "I'm not letting you in, you're done." And signaled to security to escort me out. As they came and also physically acosted me without any cause, I demanded that I be allowed to speak with the person that was demanding my exit. I managed to get the opportunity to address the man who had asked to have me removed, and explained to him that I was simply asking to return back to the event for which he had witnessed me exit without being denied entry. He signaled at this point to the security gentlemen to physically remove me. At this point absolutely devastated by the manner in which I was being treated I looked back at the man, directly in his eyes and yelled, "why are you doing this etc." I am appalled and shocked at this treatment and intend to press charges on the management of the event. As stated at the onset this is my immediate testimony that I am recording so that it may be part of the record. I request that a representative of the venue reach out to me to provide their side of events and discuss how evidence will be shared. I will add that as I sat outside and wrote this testimony several members of the staff offered their regrets on how I was treated and offered me water to drink. To this I am deeply grateful. read more

Queen Elizabeth Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

So Asa live here! It was a good medium sized venue for intimate concerts. The floor is slanted so if you're standing further back, you're still seeing above most people's heads. (Awesome for us short folks) and there was green P parking very closeby which is a plus read more

Queen Elizabeth Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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I really enjoyed the "Jazz is Dead" show that we went to on a Sunday evening. What was the most impressive about it was the size, wow it's really huge. It seems almost square in size instead of being a narrow space, it's super wide where you almost can't see the opposite side. And the stage is equally wide. It's the size of one of those gigantic stages they have for big outdoor events. Unbelievable how many people could be on there at the same time. The lobby is equally gigantic. The ceiling height is massive and there are stairs that lead from the lobby up to a second level that looked to be leading to balcony seats. We asked about that and turns out there's a nightclub up there! The place is so big that you wouldn't even know that unless someone clued you in. The other thing that was equally impressive is the sound quality, probably because of the space, but regardless, I've never heard sound that clear from a rock band, except maybe that high end places like the Glenn Gould Studio. Very clear sound without echoing and obviously capable equipment to make that happen. Security was pretty casual, and we were able to smuggle in flasks since beers are about $15 each so it made sense to bring some of your own in to make it more fun if it's a rockin' type of show. Highly recommended! read more

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I was recently here for a stand up comedy show. I've been the Exhibition Grounds many times in the past but never had any events in the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Unfortunately it doesn't share much grandeur with Her Majesty. It's a bit dated on the inside. There isn't a ton of space in the entrance but that's where the concessions are, so it makes for a lot of congestion. The washroom seemed clean enough but it smelled horribly. There wasn't much airflow in there. There also are a set of stairs that you have to go down to get to the restroom, at least on the women's side. Not sure if there is an accessibility option. As for the actual theatre, it isn't that large so the view isn't bad. The seats are smartly sloped so it's not the worst if there's someone sitting in front of you. The acoustics for the comedy show were on point and there was never any issues hearing. The seats themselves were pretty comfortable. It was narrow but not horrible, some movie theaters are worse. You do have to get up to let someone by though, there isn't quite enough room to let them scooch by. Same kind of complaint though, it's a bit older and mustier in there. read more

Went to Queen Elizabeth Theatre to attend the Scandal Concert back in the summer time. The staff was very organized with getting everyone into the concert. The seats were super comfortable and I was able to see the stage well from my seat. read more

Queen Elizabeth Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I worked three different summers at the Canadian National Exhibition in my high school and undergraduate years. I visited and walked by the Queen Elizabeth Building countless times. How come I never knew about the Queen Elizabeth Theatre until I booked ticket to see Erasure at this venue?! I drove down there on a Tuesday evening. It was pouring rain. I saw some staff members on strike in front of the venue. I was also trying to figure out where to park. Finally, I pulled into a lot across from BMO Field's gate 4. I spoke to a friendly woman who said that parking was $12. Credit cards are accepted. I was thrilled. I parked and walked over to the theatre. Apparently, this theatre has been there since 1956 and was renovated as a concert venue in 2010. After you go through security (I opened my purse up and had the security guy peruse), the lobby greats you. It is cozy and inviting. You can grab a drink from the bar and sit down in a comfy chair. The doors to the theatre opened and we all walked in. It was my first time at the venue. I got help with getting to the right row and seats. There isn't a bad seat in the house. The acoustics were great. It's an intimate venue. It does get a bit stuffy when it's hot and humid outside, though. Perhaps the combination of other Erasure fans being there and all of us dancing made the theatre's temperature rise. I had a terrific time seeing Erasure. It had been a decade since I last saw this duo. Although there are roughly eight stalls in the women's washroom, expect a wait. Otherwise, it's a great place to see a show. (289) read more

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A cherished roller skating rink of the 90s and a high school auditorium vlended vibe greeted my husband and I as we entered the venue. Great sound and a delightfully genial staff. Would cross the border for another show in the future. read more

If your looking for a small intimate venue this is a good place to go. We saw David Gray in concert. Pros: small venue with good views from all seats. Sound system for a small theater isn't bad either. Could hear the whole concert well and did not need ear plugs. Con: we had to wait outside to get in and luckily it wasn't bad weather. Would not want to have to wait in line in bad weather. Chairs are uncomfortable and outdated. Some people even had to sit on metal folding chairs and you can't tell what kind of seat you will have until you get there. Line for refreshments was crazy and you couldn't tell which was the snack line and which was the drink line. I would return because I like the small venue vibe but this place needs a serious update!! read more

Organization for shows was completely unprofessional. Bought a VIP ticket to a show for 250CAD. Parties become separated because the seating is not well thought out and is assigned. For a rock show, with such expensive tickets, seating should be first come first serve for VIP AT LEAST. Also, there was no option to pick my seat. For example, if you are coming in a party of 5 with all VIP, is 1 person expected to pay 250CAD for each ticket so the seats are together? When I arrived at the venue, I asked the bartender about their ciders and beer, and the alcohol percentages in a few selections. He cut me off multiple times and rolled his eyes at me. Completely unfriendly. People who come to international shows are not spending money at this venue, their airfare, and lodging to support the paychecks of employees who treat them like nuisance garbage. I want to support my favorite artists, but if I can help it, I will not be back to this venue. If I do come to this venue, I will not approach the venue staff because I am sure I will not be treated with basic human respect. The band staff has made a much better impression on me than the staff of this venue, which is sad because they are working in their own element. Edit: After further observation, I realized the 2 bartenders present were dating due to engaging in amorous activity in front of guests. I believe the Male bartender was so crass because his partner was there. I do not expect to be treated like I am in high school when I spend money at an establishment; especially when I am tipping the person out of common courtesy. read more

We went to see Rufus Wainwright at the QET, and the venue (and the management) was supremely disappointing. A warning for those with mobility issues in any way/shape/form: this place is highly inaccessible. The bathrooms are located down a steep stairwell, with a rickety railing that challenged even the most able-bodied person in heels. If you manage to make it down the stairs unharmed, you'll be welcomed by the suffocating embrace of warm diarrhea. It never quite leaves your nostrils. Still, you'll have something to distract you from climbing an equally squalid set of stairs up to the theatre. The "carpets" that line the aisles are fetid and loose. One of the largest issues, however, was that the venue management chose not to open the one door until an hour after start time. It was the coldest Nov. 22 in Toronto that's ever been recorded. Perspective: there's was an emergency shelter for displaced folks RIGHT NEXT DOOR because the cold weather was deemed unsafe. I adore Rufus Wainwright. I've seen him perform in every venue imaginable of the last 20 years, but once I got out of the cold, I wasn't sure I was well enough to stay. In the end, I had to leave before the encore, because it was too much of a risk to exit down the stairs with the crowd. Of course, my husband has to leave a half hour early just to make sure I didn't have to endure the cold, long walk to the disabled parking spots again. I'll go back to the QET again--once it's condemned and it's made into a parking lot. read more

This theatre is spacious and accommodating, but it is a bit out of the way. It's a long train ride, and there's no real restaurants or bars around the area. There's no balcony, but it raises nicely towards the back. They have a full bar and some random snacks. The chairs can be somewhat uncomfortable for a tall person. Great acoustics. You can hear in any part of theatre clearly. read more

Queen Elizabeth Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Came here on Friday for the Trixie Mattel show and had never set foot inside the building previously, so didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised by just how beautiful the venue was and just wondering why it isn't used more often. With seating for just over 1200 people, it's bigger than the Danforth Music Hall and more centrally located with access to the Go Train and the TTC nearby. I would not suggest driving here, because parking on-site at the CNE is super expensive. The theatre itself had comfortable seats with pretty good views no matter where you sat. We were in row K, dead center. The three of us didn't feel cramped or didn't feel as if we were on top of the people we were sitting beside which is huge. This happens so many times when you're going to seated events. I know others have commented on the seats not being accommodating, but both I and my best friend identify as plus-size and had no issues whatsoever. Another plus about the venue: full bar and snacks which you can bring to your seats. Love it, since most old-school theatres like this will not allow drinks (other than water) to seats. What I loved about the staff too was that they filled up my friend's water bottle (with tap water) without putting up a fuss too or making them pay for bottled water. Now that is service! If you see a show taking place at the QET, totally check it out. It's a great venue. read more

A very interesting venue that wears its heart - and history - on its sleeve. I was recently given the opportunity to attend Community Rocks, a fundraiser that benefits Community Living Toronto and has been running for quite a few years (since the 80s, apparently). Normally, I wouldn't have gone for this type of event, but being offered a pair of $150 tickets for free (considering we'd been promoting the show at our station) was a definite thumbs-up from me. While I've been to the CNE and surrounding area many times for shows, the QET eluded me. This is the kind of place that's easy to miss, and I nearly walked past it before I realized it was at the theatre itself. I had called a buddy to accompany me and had some time to spare before he showed up, so I made the effort to check out the space. Sitting on a nice couch in the mezzanine, I took a gander at the place and realized they'd added a lot of elements into this space piecemeal. The classy bar area and sprawling indoor party room is balanced out by bathrooms that haven't been modernized and a theatre (and seating) that will make you think you took a timewarp back to 1988. The comments about this looking like a high-school auditorium aren't that far off the mark, and I found my mind drifting back to when I attended Port Credit Secondary and had to sit in the auditorium for concerts. That said, the ambiance is stellar and the performers that night - the Sam Roberts Band - played a fantastic show. That goes double for the washrooms. As others have mentioned, the facilities could stand to be modernized. I thought I saw a sign for an accessible washroom (maybe other commenters missed it? It's right by the stairwell), but the lion's share of the facility is down a perilous stairwell that clearly doesn't follow modern design specs. That said, the washrooms were clean and surprisingly-stocked with a lot of amenities. This space is deceptively big, but the staff know how to handle a crowd and the experience was seamless. After the pre-show reception, several hundred guests filtered into the aforementioned party room, where we enjoyed "cafeteria-style" (if artisan roast beef and potatoes, beef sliders, and "TV dinners" made up of nice fried chicken and green beans could be considered cafeteria food) entrees, along with an open bar, several vendors and performances from some disco dancers. All in all, it was a fantastic night and I could see myself visiting again in the future for another event. Well worth a look. read more

I've seen several comedy shows here over the past couple years at JFL42. It's one of the best venues for this type of thing in the city. I really enjoyed when Bill Burr came on and immediately roasted the venue. "Queen Elizabeth" is a beautiful name, but it leaves you expecting a bit more. So true. With that name, you expect a bit more... grandeur. However, the theatre's elegance is in its simplicity. While the exterior bears resemblance to a converted middle school from the 70s, the interior is relatively sleek and functional. Seating is comfortable, and it's very easy to see the stage. There is no balcony, the seats just gradually slope higher and higher. Furthermore, the layout is simple. It's very easy to get to your seats, with a minimal amount of stairs. The acoustics are clear without being brashly loud. Again, excellent for a comedy show. I haven't had the slightest problem with security. They're fast and efficient, but also willing to admit if they don't know something. The biggest downside is probably the location. Bonus: Beer. read more

My purpose for visiting the Queen Elizabeth Theatre was due to the fact that I was attending a party for All Star Weekend. Parking was $15 CAD ( they take debit cards for that). Pretty accessible by public transit. The QET looks old, but is still top notch and capable of holding over 1200 people. There was a $3 CAD coat check. My only issue was that the bar only accepts cash and the drink were ridiculously overpriced. There are ATM's inside for use. Other than that, the party went up without a hitch despite freezing temperatures. read more

Nov 22, 2018 Temp -4 C. Windy, bone chilling cold. The ticket and website stated the Rufus Wainwright concert started at 7 pm. We thought it was early but since it was written in both places, we decided it must be accurate. We actually phoned the box office to confirm but received no response to our call. The phone just rang. On arriving about 6:45 pm, we stood in a long line waiting to get in. Let me repeat, it was -4C and windy. And others in the line were surprised by the 7 pm start time as well. We waited. The door didn't open until 7. This was our first hint this was going to be a long night. Only ONE door was opened to allow hundreds of patrons in with only two people scanning and accepting tickets. No food or outside water was allowed in the theatre, but once inside, there were booths selling wine, beer and various pops, candy and snacks. Unusual for a concert, imo. Finally about 7:15 the inside doors opened to allow us inside the theatre. On first exposure to the venue, we were unimpressed to say the least. The seats were low, very worn and outdated. The floor carpet was dirty. It was a big empty box with no warmth literally and figuratively. There were two banks of lights on stage facing the audience. At 7:30 one of the band members gave a 25 minute concert of her own music. Mediocre. We endured her performance. 8 pm, we have been at the venue for 1 hr 15 minutes from the time stated on the ticket and on the QET website. No concert. Finally by 8:15 pm the concert began. Excellent music, great performance. However, the two banks of lights facing the audience were used and not used well. Blinding would be an appropriate word to use. Why would anyone use lights FACING the audience and slow strobe them throughout the performance? It was a relief to close one's eyes. This theatre is outdated, worn, cold and dirty. Not pleasant surroundings. The only saving grace was the performance by an excellent musician. We will not ever be returning to this venue. May it Rest In Peace. read more

AMAZING VENUE! Saw The Tallest man on Earth there and I was blown away. The venue is beautiful (its seated), not too big and the sound quality is incredible. Several times throughout the concert I was convinced they were just playing his album, this was not so, the sound quality was simply top notch. I would highly recommend seeing a concert here. Only negative was that they would not allow us to bring our beer into the concert hall, if you wanted to drink you had to do it in the lobby. They also put out free sushi and spring rolls prior to the show which was awesome, who can resist free food! read more

The seats and aisles are incredibly small and haven't been updated since the 80's. Considering the cost of parking and tickets for a large event like Welcome to Night Vale it's not really a suitable venue. Watching loads of people not being able to sit in the seats properly. The doormen are overly eager to make you toss your drinks hurriedly at the front as Carlos said. read more

A great spot to catch a show. They have a lounge with a ton of seating where you can buy drinks while waiting for the show to start. They had sushi and spring rolls on the table, but I was full and am also somewhat suspicious of apps that are just laying around. We didn't feel like catching the opening number, and we were able to sit in some comfy chairs, sip some beer and watch the show on a large screen from the lounge. Very civilized. The concert venue is just great. There isn't a bad seat in the house. I'm short, so I love the fact that people are encouraged to sit, meaning I actually get to see what's on stage. I'm not a music nerd, but the acoustics seemed to be really great as well. I've seen both a rock show and a stand-up comedy show here and was impressed by the comfort of the seats and the great views. It's not a big place. I really love that about it. My only complaint is that they seem to have maybe 8 ladies' bathroom stalls in a venue that seats maybe 1,000 people. Also, the nature of the place means that people are going to want to go to the bathroom at the EXACT SAME TIME. They really need to fix this. read more

this venue has a soft spot in my heart, I've been here a handful of times, 3 times for comedy acts and 2 times for a concert. the sound in this building is pretty good, but it depends on where you sit, I find often times then not the more centre you can sit, the better the sound. the staff are very nice(minus security). this is also one of the few venues to have snacks and popcorn, like a true theatre? and the bar is very well priced for quality and quantity. a couple of suggestions coming to this venue. parking is not a very fun option in my experience, as they ding you for 20 bucks an event. I would suggest taking transit, and if you can take the 29 Dufferin to the Dufferin gates and walk, or the new 514 cherry to the Dufferin gates. the reason why I say this is because the 511 is a lot longer of a walk then it looks. this is for sure one of the better venues in Toronto. not the best, but I'm a fan :) read more

This is my second favorite venue for concerts. It was small, cozy, with a perfect view of the stage from every single corner. Acoustics were awesome, the bar was there, there's a smoking area outside where the entrance is. The bathrooms were big and clean. The surroundings are great too - it's nice to get out of a venue on a warm summer morning and not have to stare at a highway but instead have a park-like view. Go for a walk, enjoy music :) I saw Tallest Man on Earth Here. He's very short...but his voice is absolutely stunning. read more

I was here as part of JFL42 to see Bill Burr (hilarious show). I didn't even know this theatre existed here, so I was surprised when I went through the doors and found a large venue that seats 1,250 people! Kinda embarassing, as I like to know my venues around the city... On this night, I was horribly late. Burr had already taken the stage. I snuck in through the doors to a dimlit theatre, thinking that I would just stand at the back and not bother the other comedy enthusiasts who managed to come to the show on time. An usher approached me and asked if I had a seat, and I said no. She took me up and found me a seat. Awesome. Sorry to the two people I had to ask to move. Acoustics were amazing. From what I've read, they are great here which is a BIG plus considering acoustics is everything in a theatre venue. Would not hesitate to see another show here at all. After the show I scooted on to my next comedy destination, so I have no idea what the facilities are like. read more

Made me throw out my water even though I need it for medical reasons. The security lady told me I could refill it inside so I reluctantly dumped it all out expecting there would be a water fountain inside. Nope! SHE LIED! You have to pay for it!! As if you're not making enough money from tickets!! The security check seemed to be all about outside food or drinks, didn't really seem to be about looking for anything possibly nefarious. She scrambled through this tiny pocket in my bag, carefully examining what granola bars I had, I assume to check if they might be chocolate bars or something else they were selling inside, because after looking at the brand of one of them she let me keep them. Also, not environmentally friendly in the least. Besides all the wasted water and probably food too that they made people throw out, they were telling everyone to just dump out their water in the planter by the entrance. Way to kill the plants. Terrible venue! Terrible security! What a scam! I literally made a Yelp just for this. read more

Very dated. Felt a lot like a high school auditorium. Show we went to see was great and as others have mentioned very intimate but the seats left a lot to be desired. read more

Maybe it's different for different shows, but emptying our water bottle at entrance just to get inside and buy overpriced mediocre slice for $3.50 and a bottle of water set a bad taste in my mouth to start off the night. Even the slice was basically just the crust with 3 bits of pepperoni from one of the chain pizza shops. Tickets were reasonably priced but 40% "service fees" was also absurd. There is ample room in the lobby to hang out if you go as a group. Lighting in the theatre is good and seats are adequately maintained. read more

The Queen Elizabeth Theatre is a lovely live music venue. The theatre boasts very high ceilings, exposed brick walls, a large stage, and theatre style seating. The building itself is roughly 50 years old and the decorum is more 1990s. There is a large scale iron art installation as you walk in the building and a chandelier. I would have preferred the décor to reflect more of a Victorian style and not be so '90s contemporary. They have a lounge area to sit and chill and they also serve alcohol and snacks. I believe there are around 1000 seats in the theatre, so a decent sized venue. There is no bad seat in the house and the acoustics are good. Again I would have preferred a more opulent style of design and décor, but all in all The QET has a wonderful ambiance and is an enjoyable space to see a show. read more

Came here to see the Welcome to Night Vale: All Hail show on May 2, 2017. My friends and I were surprised to see so many people lining up outside (the seating capacity here is 1250 people), and were pleasantly surprised by how comfy the theatre was. We got front row seats so it was very nice to see Cecil up close. Would definitely come back here again if there's a performer I'd like to see! read more

Attended the Bebel Gilberto concert here tonight. $11 parking just behind the building. $3 for water. Bathrooms were small and creepy but acceptable. Had a great time at the show, sitting front row center. Nice venue for an intimate concert like this. Seats are worn and due for an upgrade. Nice concession and bar area. read more

Great spot to catch a show. Good sound and good venue. A litte dated however.

Beautiful venue with great acoustics. Bar area is comfy and free sushi to nibble made the rounds with energetic bartenders pouring wine into real glasswear- super spiff! Only complaint is the tickets for our show printed doors open at 7, but no opening act made for a looong cocktail hour for a show that started at 8:30- ouch$ read more

Saw a concert here and it was great. Terrific venue, clean and and a good size theatre with plenty of seating.

what a great place to see a show, no bad seats. the accoustics are incredible. saw lucinda williams,felt like i was at a church revival. nice bar, drinks are overpriced. they offer sushi and eggrolls while you wait. staff is very friendly and helpful. decor is nice to look at. seats are very spacious. read more