History: Granville Street, also known as Theatre Row, once had the world’s second largest display of neon signs. In the 1950s, the street was called the “Great White Way” because it attracted many tourists from all over the world to view the neon signs. Named after Granville Leveson-Gower, the Second Earl of Granville, a colonial secretary for the British Empire, in 1886, the “Township of Granville” (Vancouver) became an official city, but it was later renamed “Vancouver” after explorer Captain George Vancouver. Dubbed as an entertainment district, Granville Street is also known for its cinemas, clubs and theatres. However during the late 1990s, Granville Street was a complete mess. The street suffered from deterioration and was in needed of a makeover. Eventually one by one, the cinemas and theatres began to shut down; luckily a few of them still remain standing today. In 2010 Granville Street was the street used to represent Vancouver for the Winter Olympics. By increasing its physical appearance, the government hoped the atmosphere would improve before the Olympics. This project focused on improving the pedestrian experience, the vitality of the street, and enhancing the transit system. This rejuvenation project was highly successful and has shaped the image of the old worn down street to a lively vibrant community. Written by E.G. Posted by F.J.
Now: Granville Street now is known as one of Vancouver’s main entertainment districts, filled with nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. This street is packed with bus lines so the street is filled with many people (especially on weekends) as they go from place to place. Granville Street is home to many iconic buildings that form “Theatre Row”, as well as the rest of the street (including the Vogue Theatre, the Orpheum, the Commodore Ballroom, and the Hudson’s Bay building.) As well as restaurants and theatres, the Pacific Centre Mall rests on Granville Street, which has become a major shopping destination in Vancouver. This draws lots of attention from the younger crowd, who may not (but should) appreciate the old vibes of Granville Street.
F.J.
http://timbreconcerts.com/venues/the-vogue-theatre/ THE VOGUE