A multicultural, multi-disciplinary arts hub

Word to the wise: If you're a fan of contemporary dance, this is the place the catch a performance - artistic director Donna Spencer spearheaded Vancouver's annual Dancing on the Edge Festival.

Built in 1906, the Firehall operated as a proper fire station until 1975 before it transformed into an arts centre during the 1980s. Staging more than 200 shows each year, the Firehall's program verges on the eclectic, with topics as far-ranging as Vietnam War draft dodgers to mythological tales of the sea explored through theatre, dance, comedy and improvisation.

One of Canada's first theatre companies to incorporate aboriginal and culturally diverse artists within its practice, the Firehall strives to produce and present work that highlights and supports the nation's multiculturalism.