Four Cultural Experiences Not to Miss in Vancouver

For many, being retired means having loads of time (hopefully!) to do what you love. If what you love is attending the symphony, plays and the theatre, then Vancouver has no shortage of options for older adults.

Founded in 1919, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performs classical, popular and culturally diverse music at venues throughout the Lower Mainland including the Orpheum Theatre, the Vancouver Playhouse and Bard on the Beach. Bonus: adults over 65 are eligible for discount on tickets. Subscription packs are available as well. http://www.vancouversymphony.ca/concerts/ticketing-faq/

Ballet B.C. was founded in 1986. Although the company has had its challenges over the years, artistic director Emily Molnar turned things around with her unique vision when she joined in 2009. Ballet BC is now a contemporary dance company (think nude bodysuits instead of pink tutus) which presents a repertoire of Canadian and international works spanning from the late 20^th to early 21^st centuries. All Ballet B.C. main stage performances take place at the iconic Queen Elizabeth theatre. Don’t miss the pre- and post-show chats with the dancers that occur in the theatre mezzanine and the mezzanine lobby. balletbc.com

The Vancouver Opera performs contemporary and classic works throughout its festival and seasonal year at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre and at the Vancouver Playhouse. In spring 2018, the Russian White Nights festival will include a Russian classic opera, instrumental and vocal chamber music concerts. vancouveropera.ca/ 

They say laughter is the best medicine, so why not head out for a night of chuckles at the Vancouver Theatre Sports League? Since 1980 the troupe has been performing what its website describes as “a style that is a highly theatrical fusion of the dramatic events of comedy and tragedy coupled with the enthusiasm and edge-of-your-seat excitement of professional sport.” Fun times to be had indeed! http://www.vtsl.com/shows/all-comedy-shows/