Phantom of the Orpheum

Published July 2, 2013 -- It's a little unnerving to be wandering up and down the empty halls backstage of one of North America's most beautiful and famous concert halls.  I had never before been inside the Orpheum when it is completely empty, so it was quite a treat to be able to pause and soak in all the grandeur of the opulent structure and design.  Even better that I could capture it with the Nikon D800E.

Situated in downtown Vancouver, Canada, this National Heritage Site was built in 1927.  A major refurbishing project began in 1975 and on April 2nd, 1977 it was officially reopened to primarily be home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. It hosts 2,688 patrons.

The most breathtaking feature is undoubtedly the ceiling.  Crafted with reinforced plaster, this magnificent dome showcases a mural created by LA artist Tony Heisbergen.  It features mythical and real people reportedly including the architect Ron Nelson.  The mural spans 24 individual panels.