A diverse range of concerts including Masterworks (classical repertoire), VSO Pops (popular music, film scores), Kids' Koncerts, Tea & Trumpets (matinee series), special presentations (e.g., movie nights with live orchestra), and educational and community programs. They also offer online concerts and various ticket packages and subscriptions.
Founded in 1919, the VSO is a Grammy and Juno award-winning orchestra led by Music Director Otto Tausk (as of 2018). It performs over 150 concerts annually, reaching over 270,000 people. The orchestra is committed to high-quality performances of classical, popular, and culturally diverse music and has a strong focus on education and community engagement. It is the third largest orchestra in Canada and the largest arts organization in Western Canada.
Primary Venue: Orpheum Theatre, Downtown Vancouver. Other Venues: The VSO performs throughout Metro Vancouver, including the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at UBC, Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey, Centennial Theatre in North Vancouver, and others.
Administrative Office & Mailing Address: 500 – 833 Seymour Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 0G4. Primary Performance Venue (Orpheum Theatre): 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver, BC. The VSO also performs at various other venues across Metro Vancouver.
Dress Code: Generally, there is no strict dress code; attire ranges from jeans and hoodies to evening wear. Comfort is key. For themed nights like movie concerts, some attendees enjoy dressing up.
Arrival: Arrive early, especially if new to the Orpheum, to find your seat and explore the venue. Doors to the auditorium typically open 30 minutes before the show.
Applause: It's customary to applaud when the Concertmaster (lead first violinist) and the Conductor enter the stage. Generally, hold applause during a multi-movement piece until its complete conclusion, unless the atmosphere of a particular concert (like a Pops show) invites more frequent reactions.
During the Performance: Keep phones silenced and put away. Recording and flash photography are prohibited. It's considered impolite to leave during the performance unless urgent.
Intermission: Restroom lines can be long. You can pre-order drinks at the bar for intermission to save time.
Relaxed Performances: For these specific events, movement and noise are welcome, house lights are often dimmed rather than fully off, and a separate quiet space is available.
Parking: Several parking lots are nearby the Orpheum; the VSO website sometimes recommends specific lots.
Getting There: The Orpheum is easily accessible via public transit (SkyTrain and bus routes).
