Photo: The Birdhouse
Thanks to the many different diverse communities here, Vancouver has a thriving cultural and entertainment scene. From 2SLGBTQIA+ artists to queer entertainers and drag queens, these wonderful performers showcase their talents weekly at hip venues across the city.
What the Frock
Image: What the Frock Productions
What the Frock Productions puts on a variety of shows at different spaces and venues, starring a diverse array of talent. There’s something for everyone, whether it’s live comedy, drag performances, karaoke, speed dating, trivia, brunch, beer, or bingo.
To browse upcoming shows and purchase tickets, visit What the Frock’s Eventbrite page.
The Birdhouse
The Birdhouse is Eastside Studio’s newish queer and trans-run art space and nightlife event venue. A haven for anyone of any identity or group, this is where everybody can come to see a cabaret and dance the night away to good music with weekly programming in a safe environment surrounded by other cool people of all orientations.
To browse shows and purchase tickets, visit The Birdhouse’s Eventbrite page.
Commercial Drive
Car Free Day, Photo: Rick Chung/YVArcade
While many think of Davie Street as Vancouver’s queer entertainment district, the streets of Commerical Drive (aka “The Drive”), with its artistic flair, are quickly becoming more of a destination for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities looking to have fun on the Eastside of the city.
The Drive is known for its culturally diverse population with a bohemian vibe and many owner-operated businesses friendly and welcoming to all lifestyles. Queer-friendly spots like Havana, Flamingo Room, Storm Brewing, and more are known for hosting special events or live performances that engage their local communities and hip neighbourhood in addition to serving great food and drinks.
At the famous Rio Theatre, in addition to cult movie screenings and other locally hosted events, you’ll regularly find drag and cabaret shows, including the upcoming Math in Drag! An Evening with Kyne Santos on Apr. 29. Both of The Cultch‘s venues, the Historic Theatre and York Theatre, also offer diverse artistic programming that often includes performances involving drag, cabaret, and alternative artforms as well as more traditional theatre.
Drag Brunch
Drag Brunch, Photo: Score on Davie
A hot new trend over the last few years has been enjoying a vivacious and entertaining drag show during the day over brunch with friends. There are many “drag brunch” shows at restaurants throughout the city, hosted by many different talented drag performers.
There’s also the regular non-brunch Drag Show Fridays show hosted every Friday night at Numbers Cabaret.