Victoria

Popular Venues for Live Music and Performances

1. Royal Theatre

   • Overview: A historic venue built in 1913, the Royal Theatre is one of Victoria's most iconic performance spaces. It hosts a variety of events, including classical music, opera, ballet, and touring Broadway shows.
   • Genres: Classical, opera, ballet, Broadway musicals.
   • Location: 805 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC.
   • Capacity: Approximately 1,400 seats.
   • Notable Performers: Victoria Symphony, Pacific Opera Victoria, and international touring acts.

2. Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre

   • Overview: A large multi-purpose arena that hosts major concerts, sporting events, and family shows.
   • Genres: Rock, pop, country, and large-scale performances.
   • Location: 1925 Blanshard Street, Victoria, BC.
   • Capacity: Up to 7,000 seats.
   • Notable Performers: Elton John, Bryan Adams, and Cirque du Soleil.

3. Alix Goolden Performance Hall

   • Overview: A stunning heritage venue with stained glass windows and excellent acoustics, perfect for intimate performances.
   • Genres: Folk, indie, classical, and acoustic performances.
   • Location: 907 Pandora Avenue, Victoria, BC.
   • Capacity: Approximately 800 seats.
   • Notable Performers: Local and international indie artists, chamber music ensembles.

4. The Capital Ballroom (formerly Sugar Nightclub)

   • Overview: A popular venue for live music and nightlife, featuring a mix of local and touring bands.
   • Genres: Rock, indie, electronic, and alternative.
   • Location: 858 Yates Street, Victoria, BC.
   • Capacity: Approximately 500 people.
   • Notable Performers: Emerging and established artists in the indie and alternative scenes.

5. Hermann’s Jazz Club

   • Overview: A cozy, long-standing jazz club that is a cornerstone of Victoria’s music scene.
   • Genres: Jazz, blues, and swing.
   • Location: 753 View Street, Victoria, BC.
   • Capacity: Approximately 150 people.
   • Notable Performers: Local jazz musicians and international acts.

6. Phillips Backyard

   • Overview: An outdoor venue hosted by Phillips Brewing & Malting Co., known for its summer concert series.
   • Genres: Rock, indie, and alternative.
   • Location: 2010 Government Street, Victoria, BC.
   • Capacity: Varies depending on the event.
   • Notable Performers: Popular Canadian and international bands.

7. Victoria Event Centre (VEC)

   • Overview: A community-focused venue that hosts a variety of live music, comedy, and cultural events.
   • Genres: Eclectic mix, including folk, world music, and experimental.
   • Location: 1415 Broad Street, Victoria, BC.
   • Capacity: Approximately 200 people.
   • Notable Performers: Local and touring artists, as well as community-driven events.

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Notable Events and Festivals

1. Victoria JazzFest

   • When: Late June.
   • Overview: A 10-day festival featuring world-class jazz musicians performing at various venues across the city.
   • Genres: Jazz, blues, and world music.
   • Ticket Costs: $20–$100, depending on the performance.
   • Tips: Book tickets early, as popular shows sell out quickly.

2. Rifflandia Festival

   • When: September.
   • Overview: A multi-day music festival featuring a mix of indie, electronic, and hip-hop artists, with performances at multiple venues, including outdoor stages.
   • Genres: Indie, electronic, hip-hop, and alternative.
   • Ticket Costs: $150–$300 for multi-day passes.
   • Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a reusable water bottle for outdoor venues.

3. Symphony Splash

   • When: Early August.
   • Overview: A free outdoor concert by the Victoria Symphony, performed on a floating stage in the Inner Harbour.
   • Genres: Classical.
   • Ticket Costs: Free (donations encouraged).
   • Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot and bring a blanket or lawn chair.

4. Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival

   • When: June.
   • Overview: Canada’s longest-running ska and reggae festival, featuring international and local acts.
   • Genres: Ska, reggae, and world music.
   • Ticket Costs: $20–$50 per show or $150 for a festival pass.
   • Tips: Check out the free daytime performances at Ship Point in the Inner Harbour.

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Approximate Ticket Costs

• Small Venues (e.g., Hermann’s Jazz Club, Victoria Event Centre): $10–$40.
• Mid-Sized Venues (e.g., Alix Goolden Hall, Capital Ballroom): $20–$75.
• Large Venues (e.g., Royal Theatre, Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre): $50–$200, depending on the performer.
• Festivals: $20–$300, depending on the event and ticket type (single-day vs. multi-day passes).

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How to Purchase Tickets

1. Online: Most venues and festivals have official websites or partner with ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster, Eventbrite, or Brown Paper Tickets.
2. Box Offices: Tickets for venues like the Royal Theatre and Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre can be purchased directly at their box offices.
3. Local Record Stores: Some smaller venues and festivals sell tickets through local record stores like Ditch Records (784 Fort Street).
4. At the Door: For smaller venues, tickets may be available at the door, but it’s best to check availability in advance.

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Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

1. Arrive Early: For general admission shows, arriving early ensures better seating or standing spots.
2. Support Local Artists: Victoria has a strong community of talented local musicians. Check out smaller venues and open mic nights to discover emerging talent.
3. Respect the Venue: Many venues, especially smaller ones like Hermann’s Jazz Club, rely on community support. Be respectful of the space and staff.
4. Dress Code: Most venues in Victoria are casual, but for performances at the Royal Theatre or formal events, business casual attire is recommended.
5. Transportation: Downtown Victoria is walkable, but public transit and taxis are available for late-night shows. Parking can be limited, so plan accordingly.
6. Weather Considerations: For outdoor events, bring layers and rain gear, as Victoria’s weather can be unpredictable.

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Victoria’s live music and performance scene is diverse and welcoming, offering something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re attending a symphony concert at the Royal Theatre or dancing to indie bands at Rifflandia, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. Enjoy your time in this beautiful city!