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Pantages Playhouse Theatre: A Historic Gem in Winnipeg's Exchange District

Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at Winnipeg's historic Pantages Playhouse Theatre, a beautifully preserved vaudeville landmark.

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The Pantages Playhouse Theatre, located in Winnipeg's Exchange District, is a beautifully preserved former vaudeville theatre with a rich history dating back to 1914. It has hosted a variety of performances from vaudeville acts to live theatre and continues to be a cultural hub in the city.

A brief summary to Pantages Playhouse Theatre

Local tips

  • Check the theatre's schedule in advance to catch popular shows, as they tend to sell out quickly.
  • Arrive early to explore the stunning architecture and ambiance of the theatre.
  • Consider dining at nearby restaurants in the Exchange District for a complete night out.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Winnipeg Transit terminal at 555 Main St, board the number 15 bus heading towards 'University of Manitoba'. After approximately 15 minutes, get off at the stop at 'Main St @ Market Ave'. From there, walk 2 minutes south on Market Ave to the Pantages Playhouse Theatre at 180 Market Ave. A single ride fare is $3.25 for adults, with discounted fares of $2.75 for youth and seniors. Transfers are free and valid for 75 minutes.

  • Walking

    If you're in the downtown area, such as the Forks Market, head east on Forks Market Rd, then turn left onto Main St. Continue walking north until you reach Market Ave. Turn right onto Market Ave, and the Pantages Playhouse Theatre will be on your left at 180 Market Ave, about a 15-minute walk.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. Simply enter 'Pantages Playhouse Theatre, 180 Market Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0P7' as your destination. The driver will take you directly to the theatre. A short trip within downtown Winnipeg will likely cost between $10 and $20.

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Discover more about Pantages Playhouse Theatre

The Pantages Playhouse Theatre, a National Historic Site, stands as a testament to Winnipeg's vibrant cultural past. Built in 1913-1914, it was the ninth theatre in Alexander Pantages' chain of vaudeville houses. Designed by George W. Northwood and B. Marcus Priteca, the theatre showcased live theatrical, musical, and vaudeville performances, hosting legendary performers such as Buster Keaton and Ella Fitzgerald. Winnipeg served as an important stop for performers honing their craft. The theatre's architecture features an Edwardian baroque façade with classical detailing and a lit marquee. The interior boasts original marble sheathing and a decorative plaster ceiling. In 1923, the theatre transitioned to live theatre and was renamed the Playhouse Theatre. Although the conversion wasn't initially successful, the theatre continued to evolve, hosting the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's premier performance in 1940. Throughout the years, the theatre has undergone several changes in ownership and renovations, including a 1993 addition that added a new entrance and improved backstage facilities. Today, the Pantages Playhouse Theatre remains a central venue for diverse performances and community events, contributing to the city's social and cultural life. In 1914, the Pantages Theatre hosted the first-ever jazz concert in Canada by The Creole Band.

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