The Chan Centre for the Performing Arts

Chan Centre for the Performing Arts — Performance Hall Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Okay, so you're arriving at the concert hall. What's it like? When visionary Canadian architect Bing Thom designed this University of British Columbia landmark, he hired some of the world’s finest acousticians to create an optimal-sounding space. So it’s no wonder “The Chan,” as this performing-arts venue is known, is famous for its impeccable acoustics, which draw top international musicians, many who typically play far larger venues. With curved maple walls, the distinctly modern concert hall is shaped like the inside of a cello, and features a striking 25-ton acoustic canopy over the stage. The lobby is equally breathtaking: floor-to-ceiling glass walls tilt at a perfect angle so concert-goers overlook a lit grove of towering firs and cedars rather than reflections of themselves. Who tends to play here? This venue hosts all kinds of artists, from classical masters to jazz greats to pop favorites, as well as musical styles from around the globe. Big names have included jazz legends Wynton Marsalis, Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock; opera star Renée Fleming; cello master Yo-Yo Ma; Mavis Staples; tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain; Inuit throat singer Tanya Tagaq with the Kronos Quartet; author David Sedaris; Mexican chanteuse Lila Downs; Nordic indie stars Sigur Rós, and many others. Luminaries including the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Canadian actor Michael J. Fox have also received honorary degrees here, and the building has been used as a location for films from Fifty Shades of Grey to Step Up . Take us inside the concert hall itself—how is it? The main Chan Shun Concert Hall holds 1,400 people, but with its intimate design and excellent acoustics, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. The fixed seats are firm but comfortable, with a reasonable amount of legroom, but if you really want to stretch out, opt for the box seats at the sides, which feature movable chairs, as well as accessible seating for people with disabilities. Is it good for kids? It depends on the artist, but the Chan prides itself on being open to everyone, from young kids to great-grandparents, and staff members go out of their way to make it work, no matter your age or background. The venue also hosts kids’ performances, and many artists provide master classes to students from the UBC School of Music. Anything in particular that makes this place special? All the better if the stars align and you can catch a great artist, but the Chan is one of those rare venues where you could walk in having no idea who's playing and you’ll likely have an amazing experience." - Jennifer Van Evra