Ghost story of Vogue Theatre Vancouver
Steeped in history, nestled in the bustling Granville Mall, stands the iconic Vogue Theatre. Opening its doors in 1941, it has witnessed years of cinematic magic and live performances. After a brief closure in 1988, the theatre was reborn, having been meticulously restored to its original magnificence. And with its resplendent rebirth came stories of a mysterious guest – a ghostly visitor who has become as much a part of the theatre’s lore as its architecture.
An Eerie Presence
The ghostly figure haunting the Vogue is often described as a dark-haired, severe-looking man. Witnesses claim to have seen him in various parts of the theatre, most commonly in the working areas. Staff members have dubbed a particularly eerie corridor in the basement the “Haunted Highway”, as its chill is often accompanied by inexplicable bangs and slamming doors.
One of the most prominent witnesses of this spectral figure is Bill Allman, who served as the House Manager and later the General Manager between 1994 and 1997. Allman recalls an unsettling incident from the summer of 1994. As he was locking up the carpentry room, he felt a presence and saw what appeared to be a three-dimensional shadow passing by. To his surprise, there was no one there. This incident was just the beginning.
Shortly after, a drum kit set up for a Beatles tribute band seemingly played itself – a basic beat echoing through the theatre. And even though the rhythm wasn’t one of a seasoned drummer, the beats were clear, loud, and very real. On another occasion, Allman glimpsed the same shadowy figure, this time in the audience section.
Unseen, but Felt
The ghost isn’t just known for visual apparitions. In November of 1995, during a tribute show for Nat King Cole titled “Unforgettable”, performer Shane McPherson was taken aback mid-performance. He confessed to having seen a young man with dark hair and stern features walk out from an exit and then vanish into thin air. His description mirrored that of another witness, a psychic who had sensed an angry spirit during a visit to the theatre.
Another account came from theatre employee David Raun. While securing the theatre one night, he felt a sudden drop in temperature and saw the clear face of a young man with chiseled features, which dissolved before his very eyes.
A Friendly Ghost?
Despite his mysterious appearances, the ghost doesn’t seem malevolent. In fact, during an encounter in 2000, Arnold Robinson, a singer with the vocal group, The Nylons, felt the presence and boldly invited it to hang out. Whether it’s seeking companionship or simply loves the theatre as much as its living visitors, the spirit continues to be a silent presence at the Vogue.
While two psychic mediums have pointed towards a tragic accident near the fly gallery as the possible origin of the ghost, no records substantiate their claims. Bill Allman believes that the phantom is someone who once worked at the theatre, given its affinity for the staff areas.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or a skeptic, the tales of the Vogue Theatre’s resident ghost add a layer of mystique to its already rich history. The theatre remains a place of entertainment, but for those with a keen eye and an open mind, it also offers the chance of a ghostly encore. If you’re ever in the southern half of Granville Mall, perhaps you could drop by for a show and a shiver.