Commodore Ballroom

With its decorative tilework and parapet, the Commodore Ballroom represents one of the earliest examples of the Art Deco style in the city.

The original Commodore Cabaret was built in 1929 by liquor magnate George Conrad Reifel at the urging of his wife Alma. She felt the city needed somewhere else to go besides the increasingly crowded ballroom of Hotel Vancouver (located at that time at the corner of Georgia and Granville Streets).

The architect H.H. Gillingham died just after the plans for this building were completed, and his son, Bruce Gillingham, finished the project.
The cabaret opened on December 3, 1930. Due to financial troubles it closed down for four months, re-opening in November of the next year.

From 1969, showman Drew Burns managed the Commodore and, over the next 25 years, worked with local promoters to attract countless legendary bands and musicians, turning the venue into an important stop for touring acts, as well as a home to some of Vancouver’s favourite local performers.

Source

Commodore Ballroom website, Vancouver Heritage Register Phase II 1986 Summary Report

More information

http://www.commodoreballroom.ca/history/