Goldcorp Centre For The Arts

Goldcorp Centre for the Arts Vancouver: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 2025-07-03

Introduction

Nestled in Vancouver’s historic downtown, the Goldcorp Centre for the Arts is a landmark that fuses the city’s architectural heritage with a commitment to contemporary artistic innovation. Situated at 149 West Hastings Street in the revitalized Woodward’s Building, it serves as the home of Simon Fraser University’s School for the Contemporary Arts (SCA). The Centre is more than just a venue—it’s a cultural bridge connecting academic pursuits, community engagement, and professional arts practice.

Visitors can expect a diverse range of experiences, from groundbreaking theatre and film to contemporary visual art exhibitions and community events. Its strategic position at the crossroads of Gastown, Chinatown, and the Downtown Eastside places it at the heart of some of Vancouver’s most storied neighborhoods, making it a gateway to both world-class arts programming and the city’s rich cultural tapestry. (SFU MECS; Proscenium Architecture; Wanderlog)

This guide offers comprehensive, up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, architectural highlights, performance and exhibition spaces, and the Centre’s role in fostering inclusivity and social innovation. Whether attending a performance, exploring an exhibition, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Introduction
Location and Urban Context
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Architectural and Spatial Features
Integration with the Woodward’s Redevelopment
Architectural Design and Philosophy
Acoustic Innovation
Key Spaces and Facilities
Fei and Milton Wong Experimental Theatre
Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema
Audain Gallery
Studios and Ancillary Spaces
Visitor Experience: Accessibility, Navigation & Amenities
Special Events, Guided Tours, and Photographic Spots
Nearby Attractions
Sustainability and Heritage Integration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Recommendations
Sources

Location and Urban Context

The Goldcorp Centre for the Arts is located at 149 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 1H4. It is part of the Woodward’s redevelopment, a project that transformed the former department store into a vibrant, mixed-use complex. The Centre sits at the confluence of Gastown, Chinatown, and the Downtown Eastside, anchoring Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods and serving as a focal point for the city’s creative and community life. (SFU Visitor Info; Destination Vancouver)

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

General Hours:

Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: Closed (some events may occur outside these hours)

Always check the official event calendar for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays or during special events.

Ticketing:

Ticket prices vary by event; many performances and screenings require advance purchase.
Some exhibitions and community events are free or by donation.
Student and senior discounts are commonly available.
Tickets are available online or at the on-site box office.

(SFU MECS; BCSFF Venue)

Architectural and Spatial Features

Integration with the Woodward’s Redevelopment

As a prominent part of the Woodward’s redevelopment, the Goldcorp Centre occupies six floors, blending academic, public, and professional spaces. This integration encourages interaction across disciplines and communities, making the Centre a model for urban revitalization and creative placemaking. (Proscenium Architecture)

Architectural Design and Philosophy

Designed by Proscenium Architecture + Interiors Inc. with CEI Architecture, the Centre preserves much of the original Woodward’s façade while introducing modern, flexible spaces. Large windows, high ceilings, and open-plan lobbies create an inviting, light-filled environment that connects the arts with the surrounding urban landscape. (Proscenium Architecture)

Acoustic Innovation

A standout feature is the “room within a room” construction—floating concrete slabs, separated inner walls, and noise-barrier ceilings ensure outstanding acoustic isolation between venues. This allows multiple performances, rehearsals, or classes to occur simultaneously without sound interference, supporting the Centre’s rich, multidisciplinary programming. (Aercoustics)

Key Spaces and Facilities

Fei and Milton Wong Experimental Theatre

Black box theatre with up to 400 seats, balcony on three sides, and flexible staging (in-the-round, proscenium, or open floor).
Connected to an Assembly Area via a retractable guillotine door, enabling innovative performance configurations.
Hosts contemporary dance, theatre, concerts, and experimental works.

(SFU MECS)

Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema

350-seat tiered cinema with advanced projection and sound systems.
Small stage for lectures or performances.
Used for film screenings, talks, concerts, and community events.

(SFU MECS; BCSFF Venue)

Audain Gallery

Contemporary art gallery with capacity for 290 people.
Hosts rotating exhibitions, student showcases, and artist talks.
Designed for dynamic installations and engaged public programming.

(SFU MECS)

Studios and Ancillary Spaces

Multiple studios for dance, music, theatre, and film.
Professional-grade rehearsal spaces, classrooms, and offices.
Purpose-built sound stage and flexible bookable spaces.

(SFU MECS)

Accessibility: The Centre is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, ramps, and accessible washrooms. Assistive listening devices are available upon request. Service animals are welcome.
Navigation: Clear signage and open-plan lobbies make moving between spaces easy. Main entrance on West Hastings Street.
Amenities: Restrooms on multiple floors, lounge areas, on-site café, and catering options for events. (La Scena Musicale)
Transportation: Easily reached by SkyTrain (Waterfront Station), multiple bus routes, and bicycle. Public transit is recommended due to limited parking.

Special Events, Guided Tours, and Photogenic Spots

The Centre regularly hosts major festivals like the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival, Vancouver International Jazz Festival, and Vancouver International Children’s Festival (Life’s Incredible Journey).
Guided tours may be available during special events or open houses—check the official website for schedules.
The building’s blend of historic and modern architecture, dramatic interiors, and city views offers excellent photo opportunities.

Nearby Attractions

Gastown: Famous for cobblestone streets, the Steam Clock, and lively dining/shopping.
Chinatown: One of North America’s largest, with vibrant markets and cultural landmarks.
Downtown Eastside: Known for community arts projects and unique urban culture.
Vancouver Art Gallery and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden are also within walking distance.

(Wanderlog)

Sustainability and Heritage Integration

The Centre preserves elements of the original Woodward’s façade and incorporates energy-efficient systems and materials, exemplifying Vancouver’s approach to green, sustainable urban redevelopment. (Proscenium Architecture)

Cultural and Community Significance

The Goldcorp Centre is a cornerstone for creative expression, academic inquiry, and community collaboration in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Working with over 20 community partners, it hosts 100+ events annually, including social justice discussions, theatre, and public dialogues. Its programming intentionally amplifies Indigenous, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized voices, and it’s recognized for lowering barriers to participation in the arts. (SFU MECS; The Peak)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Goldcorp Centre for the Arts visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Sundays. Always check for holiday and event hours.

Q: How can I purchase tickets?
A: Online through the Centre’s official website or at the box office during open hours.

Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, accessible washrooms, and seating.

Q: Are there free events?
A: Many community events and talks are free or low-cost—see the event calendar for details.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Photography is generally allowed in gallery spaces, but not during performances. Always check event-specific policies.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Available during certain events or by arrangement—check the official website for updates.

Q: How do I get there by transit?
A: Via SkyTrain (Waterfront Station) and several downtown bus routes.

Conclusion & Recommendations

The Goldcorp Centre for the Arts is more than a cultural venue—it’s a beacon of artistic excellence, community engagement, and sustainable heritage preservation in Vancouver. Its innovative design, flexible spaces, and commitment to inclusivity make it an essential destination for locals and visitors alike. Take advantage of its rich programming, accessible amenities, and strategic location to experience the very best of Vancouver’s arts and culture.

To maximize your visit: