Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture in Nanaimo has undergone some remarkable cultural transformations!

The thriving arts & culture scene attracts outstanding talented artists and musicians to Nanaimo. These artists can be experienced at many local venues.  The musical and artistic talents are enjoyed by many locals and visitors alike. Arts & culture has never been more alive in Nanaimo!

Nanaimo is home to the Port Theatre, an 800 seat theatre showcasing world renowned performers including Bryan Adams, Brett Kissel, Johnny Reid and Gord Bamford to name only a few. Every year The Port Theatre provides an incredible calendar of events, including the Vancouver Island Symphony which performs regularly there as well.

Our marvellous city is renowned for turning out successful musicians who are products of the excellent Nanaimo School District Jazz Program and Vancouver Island University music program. International jazz greats Diana Krall and Ingrid Jensen whom are both former Nanaimo music students. Some of our current highly musically talented residents which call Nanaimo their home are David Gogo, Bobbi Schram, and Joshua Holloway. We could not be more proud!

Theatre One brings local theatre to life. Nanaimo’s Theatre Group for many years has been entertaining audiences of all ages, sharing their passion of theatre with the community. Many local aspiring musicians perform regularly at The Vault Café downtown. Our local museum shares some of our very important history including where the Nanaimo Bar originated from!

” If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him “. ~ John F. Kennedy

Free Guides for Arts and Culture in Nanaimo

Lakeview Rental Homes wants to help you make the most out of your visit. We have numerous free resources that we would like to pass along to you. Select a guide below or, view a complete list of all the guides and resources we offer on our Contact Us page.