When myself and two friends arrived at the centre, we were given two free tickets by a young woman, who had already received two complementary tickets (that’s the generosity of Canadians for you!). As we only had to buy one more, this helped decrease the $56 starting price.

Once we were seated, the company I had been so looking forward to seeing, Ballet British Columbia, didn’t disappoint. The minimalist setting of the newly built venue, plus the simple stage scenery, allowed for the technique and skill of the dancers to shine through in their performance of Romeo and Juliet.

Although the centre was only built in 1995, and therefore has a very modern feel, the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I was seated on the fourth floor, yet I had an excellent, unobstructed view of the performance. The whole venue had a very relaxed feel, and I never felt out of place, although I was slightly under-dressed in comparison to others. One more step in the learning curve of becoming a Vancouverite – dress your best for the theatre!

As well as the interiors of the centre, the lighting was cosy and the acoustics were first-rate, which all added to an enjoyable night.

The foyer and reception halls had an overflow of upcoming events and plentiful information on Ballet British Columbia, along with a gift shop selling merchandise from the company.

With the venue’s central location (west side of Homer Street between Robson and West Georgia) and beautifully crafted interior, I would rate it as a top location for an enjoyable night out in Downtown Vancouver. Furthermore, I was seated between an English spoken couple (possible on vacation) and a young Canadian family, so there really is a place for everyone at the Centre for Performing Arts in Vancouver.