Victoria

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Cinemas and Theatres

Involves movie theaters and performance venues showcasing plays, musicals, live shows, and concerts.

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Cinemas in Victoria

Victoria has a mix of mainstream cinemas, independent theatres, and specialty venues that cater to a variety of tastes. Here are the most popular options:

1. Cineplex Odeon Victoria Cinemas

  • Location: 780 Yates Street, Downtown Victoria
  • Overview: This is the go-to spot for mainstream Hollywood blockbusters, offering multiple screens, comfortable seating, and modern amenities.
  • Ticket Costs:
    • General Admission: ~$14.50 CAD
    • Seniors (65+): ~$10.50 CAD
    • Children (3-13): ~$9.50 CAD
    • Discount Tuesdays: ~$8.50 CAD for all ages
  • Booking Procedures:
    • Tickets can be purchased online via the Cineplex website or app, or at the box office.
    • Advance booking is recommended for popular films, especially on weekends.
  • Accessibility:
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in all auditoriums.
    • Assistive listening devices and closed-captioning devices are offered for select screenings.
  • Local Tip: Check out Cineplexโ€™s Scene+ loyalty program for discounts and free tickets after accumulating points.

2. The Vic Theatre

  • Location: 808 Douglas Street, Downtown Victoria
  • Overview: A charming, independent cinema run by the Victoria Film Festival. It specializes in indie films, documentaries, and international cinema.
  • Ticket Costs:
    • General Admission: ~$13 CAD
    • Members: ~$11 CAD (membership costs ~$15 annually)
    • Students/Seniors: ~$11 CAD
  • Booking Procedures:
    • Tickets can be purchased online through The Vic Theatreโ€™s website or at the door.
    • Memberships offer discounts and support the local film community.
  • Accessibility:
    • The venue is wheelchair accessible.
  • Local Tip: Attend one of their special events, such as themed movie nights or Q&A sessions with filmmakers.

3. IMAX Victoria at the Royal BC Museum

  • Location: 675 Belleville Street, Downtown Victoria
  • Overview: This theatre features a massive six-story screen and specializes in nature documentaries, educational films, and select Hollywood releases in IMAX format.
  • Ticket Costs:
    • Adults: ~$12.95 CAD
    • Seniors/Youth: ~$10.95 CAD
    • Children (3-12): ~$8.95 CAD
  • Booking Procedures:
    • Tickets can be purchased online via the IMAX Victoria website or at the box office.
    • Combo tickets with Royal BC Museum admission are available.
  • Accessibility:
    • Fully wheelchair accessible.
    • Assistive listening devices are available.
  • Local Tip: Arrive early to explore the Royal BC Museum, as the IMAX theatre is located within the museum complex.

Theatres in Victoria

Victoria boasts a thriving performing arts scene, with venues showcasing everything from Broadway-style productions to local plays and live music. Here are the top theatres to visit:

1. Royal Theatre

  • Location: 805 Broughton Street, Downtown Victoria
  • Overview: A historic venue built in 1913, the Royal Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, symphony concerts, and touring Broadway shows.
  • Ticket Costs:
    • Prices vary depending on the performance, ranging from ~$30 to $150 CAD.
  • Booking Procedures:
    • Tickets can be purchased through the Royal & McPherson Theatres Society (RMTS) website, by phone, or at the box office.
    • Advance booking is highly recommended for popular shows.
  • Accessibility:
    • Wheelchair seating is available.
    • Hearing assistance devices can be requested.
  • Local Tip: Dress up a bit for evening performances, as the Royal Theatre has a more formal atmosphere.

2. McPherson Playhouse

  • Location: 3 Centennial Square, Downtown Victoria
  • Overview: Known as "The Mac," this intimate venue hosts local theatre productions, comedy shows, and live music performances.
  • Ticket Costs:
    • Prices range from ~$20 to $80 CAD, depending on the event.
  • Booking Procedures:
    • Tickets are available through the RMTS website, by phone, or at the box office.
  • Accessibility:
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating is available.
    • Hearing assistance devices are provided.
  • Local Tip: Check out performances by local theatre companies like Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre for a taste of Victoriaโ€™s creative talent.

3. Belfry Theatre

  • Location: 1291 Gladstone Avenue, Fernwood Neighborhood
  • Overview: A beloved local theatre housed in a converted 19th-century church, the Belfry Theatre focuses on contemporary Canadian plays and thought-provoking productions.
  • Ticket Costs:
    • General Admission: ~$30 to $60 CAD
    • Discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups.
  • Booking Procedures:
    • Tickets can be purchased online via the Belfry Theatre website, by phone, or at the box office.
  • Accessibility:
    • Wheelchair accessible.
    • Hearing assistance devices are available.
  • Local Tip: Attend a "Talkback Thursday" performance, where you can stay after the show to discuss the production with the cast and crew.

4. Langham Court Theatre

  • Location: 805 Langham Court, Rockland Neighborhood
  • Overview: A community theatre with a long history, Langham Court Theatre stages a mix of classic and contemporary plays.
  • Ticket Costs:
    • General Admission: ~$25 CAD
    • Discounts for students and seniors.
  • Booking Procedures:
    • Tickets can be purchased online via the Langham Court Theatre website or at the box office.
  • Accessibility:
    • Limited wheelchair accessibility; contact the theatre in advance to confirm arrangements.
  • Local Tip: This is a great place to experience Victoriaโ€™s grassroots theatre scene.

Cultural and Logistical Tips for Attending Entertainment Events in Victoria

  1. Plan Ahead: Popular events and screenings often sell out quickly, especially during weekends and holidays. Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
  2. Transportation:
    • Most venues are located in or near downtown Victoria, making them easily accessible by public transit, bike, or on foot.
    • Parking can be limited, so consider using a taxi, rideshare service, or public transportation.
  3. Dress Code:
    • Cinemas are casual, but for theatre performances, especially at the Royal Theatre, business casual attire is recommended.
  4. Local Events:
    • Keep an eye out for annual festivals like the Victoria Film Festival (February) and the Fringe Theatre Festival (August), which showcase local and international talent.
  5. Dining Options:
    • Many venues are surrounded by excellent restaurants and cafes. Arrive early to enjoy a pre-show meal or drink.
  6. Support Local Arts:
    • Consider purchasing memberships or donating to local theatres to support Victoriaโ€™s vibrant arts community.

Victoriaโ€™s cinemas and theatres offer a fantastic mix of entertainment options, from blockbuster films to intimate live performances. With this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to enjoy the cityโ€™s cultural offerings to the fullest!