Your Insider Guide to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet for a Perfect Night Out
I still remember the first time I went to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
It was way back when I was a teen—dressed up in my “fancy” outfit, I was completely wide-eyed the moment I stepped into the Centennial Concert Hall. The chandeliers, the red velvet seats; I felt like I was in another world.
Over the years, the RWB has become my go-to for everything—from date nights to cozy solo evenings, whenever I want to get lost in the beauty of dance.
If you’ve never been (or want to make the most of it), here’s my complete guide to experiencing the Royal Winnipeg Ballet like a total pro.
Where is the Royal Winnipeg Ballet?
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is headquartered at 380 Graham Avenue, which houses the company offices and training studios. All of their main stage performances are held at the Centennial Concert Hall, located at 555 Main St.
How to Get to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet
All RWB performances take place at Centennial Concert Hall in downtown Winnipeg. Here’s how you can get there:
By Bus:
There’s a bus stop right in front of the Concert hall on Main Street, which is very convenient! You can also hop off at the City Hall stop across the street or the nearby stop on Disraeli at Martha (just a 2-minute walk away).
By Car:
Coming from downtown? Head up Fort Street and turn right on Portage Ave (just note that that turn is restricted on weekdays between 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM). Turn left onto Main Street and you’re almost there—check the parking info listed below!
By Bike:
There are racks in both the indoor and outdoor parking areas. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s a quick ride—take Fort Street to Notre Dame, then loop around to Market Ave and follow the signs to the hall.
FYI, there are a couple of stair sections.
On Foot:
If walking from downtown, just head north, cut through Rorie St, then left onto Market Ave. A couple turns and a short set of stairs later, and you’re at the door.
Best Time to See the Royal Winnipeg Ballet
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The best time to see the Royal Winnipeg Ballet is during their main season from October to May, when they present full-length productions. Holiday shows and spring performances are popular, so book early for the best seats.
Things to Know about the Royal Winnipeg Ballet
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History
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet was founded in 1939 as the Winnipeg Ballet Club by Lloyd and Farrally. It became the first ballet company to receive a Royal Title under Queen Elizabeth II and gained international acclaim under artistic director Arnold Spohr.
Originally an RWB dancer, Spohr focused on nurturing Canadian talent while building a global presence. Today, the RWB performs over 100 shows a year, spending around 20 weeks on tour, and stages four productions yearly at the Centennial Concert Hall.
Centennial Concert Hall Parking
| Parking Option | Details |
| Indoor Parking Lot | Entrance on Lily Ave, behind the hall |
| Event Parking | $25 flat rate (first come, first served)Mon – Fri: After 5 PM, Valid until 1 AMWeekends: 2 hrs before the showPay at lower-level pay stations |
| Pre-Purchase Parking | Available for some commercial eventsIt may cost more than event-night ratesCheck the Event page or contact the presenting organization |
| Pre-Purchase for Arts Orgs | Contact RWB directly: (204) 956-2792 |
| Evening Hourly Parking | $5/hour, Max $20 (5 PM – 11:59 PM)Pay at the pay station on exitLost ticket: $35 |
| Monthly Parking | Weekdays 1 AM – 5 PMCall (204) 956-1360 for details |
| Accessible Parking | Reserve through RWB |
Ticket Information
Where to Buy
The best way to buy Royal Winnipeg Ballet tickets is directly through their official website or box office. You can also use Ticketmaster, but be cautious—some tickets from unofficial third-party sellers might not be valid.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices range from around $40 to $120, depending on the seat section and performance. Plus, discounts are often available for children, teens, and groups.
Group Sales
If you’re buying 10 or more tickets in sections A to C, you can get a cool 20% group discount. Just reach out to the Box Office at [email protected] or call 204-956-2792 to claim your special deal.
Access Pointe Program
RWB’s Access Pointe Program is a sweet deal for young ballet fans aged 18 to 34 looking to enjoy great performances without breaking the bank. Just sign up online with your birthdate and you’re automatically in.
Membership also offers several cool perks. For instance, you’ll get early access to $55 Section C tickets (regularly $79), and you can grab up to four discounted seats per show—even for friends of any age.
Subscription Packages
- 5-Ballet Package (Save 15%) – Perfect for legit ballet lovers, this full-season package includes all three main stage productions. It also includes two intimate showcases, featuring new talent and a mix of classic and contemporary works.
- 3-Ballet Package (Save 10%) – This fan-favorite option includes three of the season’s mainstage performances.
- 2-Ballet Package (Save 5%) – Ideal for first-timers, this smaller bundle features two mainstage ballets.
Accessibility
The RWB building and Founders’ Studio are fully accessible, with entrances, elevators, restrooms, and seating.
At the Centennial Concert Hall, wheelchair users can enter via ramps at the main driveway or Market Ave and access designated seating (with options like folding chairs with no armrests). There’s even a special elevator that leads to Row 32 to Portal 16.
Guests with visual or hearing needs can also request listening aids at no charge—just ask the box office for the best available options.
Things to Do at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Catch a beautiful ballet performance
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Catching a performance at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet is a must for anyone who loves world-class dance. From holiday classics like The Nutcracker to powerful, original pieces like Going Home Star, the shows are always unforgettable here.
The venue, Centennial Concert Hall, makes the whole experience feel extra special, with its grand stage and elegant atmosphere. Just make sure to check upcoming and current shows on their website to snag seats before popular shows sell out.
Sign up for recreational ballet classes
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Taking recreational dance classes at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet is a fun and inspiring way to connect with movement, no matter your age or skill level. From preschoolers to teens and adults, there’s a class for everyone.
I love that RWB also offers accessible classes and adaptive programming so that more people can experience the joy of dance. Plus, you can sign up for a full year, join a summer camp, or just drop in for a seasonal adult class.
Attend RWB’s community programming
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Through fun and meaningful partnerships, RWB brings dance right into schools, neighborhoods, and even city parks. Examples of community events include Concert Hour Ballet, Community Dance, and Ballet in the Park held at Assiniboine Park.
Volunteer at Things Supporting the RWB
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Volunteering at Things Supporting the RWB is a fun way to give back while being part of something special. This cozy vintage boutique has been around for 50 years, raising more than $1 million for the RWB through donated and consigned treasures.
Run by a dedicated group of about 64 volunteers, it’s actually one of Canada’s longest-running arts fundraisers. If you love vintage finds or supporting the arts, stop by the shop or give them a call to learn how you can help out.
Where to Eat near the Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Blufish Japanese Restaurant
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Website: https://www.blufish.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blufishwpg/
Address: 179 Bannatyne Ave
Hours: Mon – Wed: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM –9:30 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM –11 PM
Saturday: 4:30 PM –11 PM
Sunday: 4 PM –9 PM
Contact: (204) 779-9888
Blufish is only a 6-minute stroll away from the Centennial Concert Hall, making it the perfect spot to eat before or after an RWB show. This intimate, modern space in the Exchange District offers signature dishes, like the White Truffle Tuna Carpaccio.
My favorite here is their classic Dragon Roll, which has shrimp, mayo, tobiko, avocado, and BBQ eel on top—so delicious! I always pair with an ice-cold glass of sake—together, this yummy combo never fails to hit the spot.
Peasant Cookery
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Website: http://www.peasantcookery.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peasantcookerywpg/
Address: Travellers Building, 283 Bannatyne Ave
Hours: Monday: 4:30 PM – 10 PM
Tue – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Fri – Sat: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (204) 989-7700
Hit up Peasant Cookery before or after the ballet—this rustic-chic place is just a 4-minute drive (or 8-minute walk) from Centennial Concert Hall. My favorite here is the Aged Cheddar Gnocchi, which is so creamy and rich it’s almost sinful.
They also have awesome nightly specials that you can take advantage of after the ballet. For instance, Monday brings $10 martinis, Tuesday is Wine Night with up to 50% off bottles, and Wednesdays are all about Buck-a-Shuck Oysters.
Where to Stay near the Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Fairmont Winnipeg
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Website: https://www.fairmont.com/winnipeg/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fairmontwinnipeg/
Address: 2 Lombard Place
Hours: Check-in time: 4:00 PM
Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Contact: (204) 957-1350
Staying at Fairmont Winnipeg will make your ballet night extra special—it helps that it’s only a quick 7-minute walk from Centennial Hall, too. The rooms offer plush down comforters, Egyptian cotton sheets, and premium bedding.
To level up your stay, you can upgrade your booking to a Fairmont Gold Experience. You’ll get access to a private lounge, free breakfast, complimentary afternoon canapes, a well-stocked honor bar, and your very own dedicated concierge!
Hampton Inn by Hilton Winnipeg Downtown
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ywgwghx-hampton-inn-winnipeg-downtown/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamptoninn.winnipegdowntown/
Address: 330 York Ave
Hours: Check-in time: 3 PM
Check-out time: 11 AM
Contact: (204) 942-0101
Hampton Inn by Hilton is a favorite stay for ballet goers, thanks to its super convenient location—just a 6-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Centennial Concert Hall. It’s also close to Winnipeg landmarks like The Forks Market (under a mile away).
Guests here can’t get enough of the comfy perks: free WiFi, oversized TVs with streaming, in-room fridges, and a tasty hot breakfast buffet. After catching an RWB show, unwind with a bite or drink at Tivoli Cafe or hang out on your room’s balcony.