Vancouver’s storied Vogue Theatre originally opened as a movie theatre in 1941. It took less than a year for the venue to hold its first musical talent, and while it still does to this day it has mainly been known for its hosting of the various fine arts shows from around the city.
What you might not have known about this great venue however, is that many believe, and a great many at that, that the Vogue is haunted. Yes, actually haunted. By the same ghost each time even.
Numerous staff members throughout the years have shared their experiences seeing a tall, dark haired, grey 3D silhouette of a middle aged man throughout various parts of the venue. Even going as far as deeming the long hallway in the basement area that houses the changing rooms for cast members as “the haunted hallway”. Where the man likes to make his most frequent appearances.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/99915476@N04/10045772786/in/photolist-giHdg5-giHz7k-giGUij
(Flickr/ Vancouver Public Library Historical Photographs)
Bill Allman, a man who managed the Vogue for many years, has detailed multiple stories in past interviews of his encounters. In one run-in, Allman was giving a tour to his then girlfriend and another friend that saw them reach the projector room on the top floor. While Allman himself and his girlfriend were not witnesses themselves, the other friend described to them that upon entering the room she saw an old man, with dark hair who looked very angry at their presence sitting in the projector operator’s chair. He turned, gave a stern look, then vanished into thin air.
Another encounter came in the middle of a performance. Cast member Shane McPherson was in the middle of a dance number before stumbling, dropping his prop cane, and continuing his number. When asked about the slip up, McPherson said he saw a translucent dark-haired man enter through the doors, stare him in the eyes, and evaporate before him.
These encounters are only two of the many that have been described by former cast members and venue employees themselves. While the Vogue may be one of Vancouver’s most storied buildings, it clearly does not come without it’s demons.
Attend at your own risk.