Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Symphony Experience

One of the best things about a subscription is that it's like reserving time for yourself in advance, time that you know will be well spent. The only thing you really need to do is enjoy the performance.

Concerts are an incredible group experience: more than a thousand people could be sharing the same music at the same moment. As exhilarating as the sensation can be, there are many ways to enjoy a classical music experience. Our only request is that you enjoy the performance in such a way that it does not diminish anyone else's enjoyment.

How do I purchase tickets?

There are several ways to purchase tickets to symphony performances. You can purchase tickets over the phone or in person at the Victoria Symphony Box Office, the Royal Theatre & the MacPherson Box Office. You can also submit an online ticket order and a Victoria Symphony Customer Service Representative will contact you to confirm seating and take your credit card information (We ask that you do not submit credit card information via the web as we do not yet have a secure online payment system). Finally, tickets are available at the door for most performances; however, it is often very busy and we recommend that you arrive at least half an hour before showtime to avoid missing any of the show.

Victoria Symphony Box Office
Suite 610-620 View Street (Corner of Broad and View)
Phone: 250.385.6515
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.

Royal Theatre
805 Broughton Street (Broughton at Blanshard)
Phone:(250)386-6121 or toll-free: 1-888-717-6121
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9:30 am to 5:30pm.

MacPherson Box Office
#3 Centennial Square (Pandora at Government)
Phone:(250)386-6121 or toll-free: 1-888-717-6121
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9:30 am to 5:30pm.

What do I wear?

Whatever makes you comfortable. Some choose to dress up to make the occasion special, others dress purely for comfort. Wear whatever helps you enjoy the Symphony most.

What don't I wear?

In the close confines of a theatre, fragrances can be a genuine health hazard for sensitive patrons. Please refrain from wearing perfumes or other scents.

Where do I park?

Street parking is available at both the Royal Theatre and the University Centre in reasonable proximity to the venues. Parking is also available under UVic Centre. The closest underground parking to the Royal Theatre is at the main branch of the Victoria Public Library, off Courtney Street.

When should I arrive?

The doors for the Royal Theatre typically open one hour before the performance. Coat check and food and beverage services are available before the performance and during the intermission, so take the opportunity to get comfortable and relax before the concert starts. Occasionally pre-concert talks may be presented in the West Lobby: please call the Symphony office for full details. Please note that if you arrive after the performance begins, the usher will seat you during a suitable interval in the performance.

When do I clap?

It's the question we hear most often! At a classical concert, the usual practice is to applaud at the end of the entire work, not between the movements. Please consult your program for a listing of movements.

Anything else?

Even the smallest noise is magnified in a concert hall! Please unwrap candies before the performance begins, turn down hearing aids, and turn off all pagers, cell phone, and watch chimes. Photography and sound recordings are not permitted.