New Spaces: A Preview of the Biltmore

Vancouver has been losing out on performance space over the last few years with the tearing down of the old (historic watering holes) and the building up of the new (shiny condos). Anyone heading out after 10pm looking for some live music, stand-up comedy or variety acts of any shape and size are sometimes left to wander the streets in search of a destination. A new venue in town promises to fulfill those simple needs with local and touring bands, Watermelon and Canned Hamm (respectively, to name a few).

The Biltmore Cabaret (395 Kingsway) opened it's doors on Monday night for a free neighbourhood preview. Seeing as I live a few blocks from the club and the furthest I usually got inside was the caged offsales trap, it was time to see the place with a new light. That new light was red. The place has been completely renovated with lush velvet curtains, deep cushy booths and a very spacious floor to bounce, dance or bob to the music. A few more pics below...

Taking cues from the success of Broken City in Calgary, owner Zak Pashak and his crew have set up a number of nights catering to different tastes. The aforementioned 'Kabarett' variety shows, a couple of DJ nights to get your dancing shoes dirty and, of course, the live music bookings.

Last Monday, the Choir Practice took to the stage, and with ten band members there was still a whole lot of room up there - the stage is huge. The Buttless Chaps, only four of them, played a great set as patrons sniffed around the banquet tables and collected their free drinks from the bar (not a normal circumstance!).

Upcoming shows include Fond of Tigers CD release show tonight, Norway's Datarock tomorrow, and Kid Koala and the Stills later this month. I'm really hoping the local angle gets played strong and we can see some great showcases of Vancouver bands under those bright red lights.

There are drink specials, the PA sounds fantastic, the sight lines are great and the seating is condusive to making new friends and cuddling up. Oh, and there is taxidermy on display. It's definitely worth checking out. If you live in the area, you'll surely welcome in your new neighbour with open arms.