ancouver owns the reputation of one of Canada's most laid-back cities. Rather than concrete urban revelry (which is best left to Toronto), Vancouver flourishes in environments of simple carelessness. It seems odd, then, that Donnelly Nightclubs' newest venture, Pop Opera, is one of the city's most hyped hotspots.

Pop Opera is neither careless nor laid-back. Pop Opera is a Los Angeles-style VIP-catering, get-as-hoed-up-as-you-can-in-order-to-get-in style nightclub. You don't go here to relax; you go here to dance, to drink, and to be seen.

Unless you like standing still for extended periods of time (who doesn't?) I would suggest getting onto a guest list. Once you've battled your way into the club and paid the cover, be prepared for a $5 coat check fee. My warnings should serve as heedless, though, since if you're heading to this club, you're probably willing to pay. It's all about the VIP experience here and if you're not willing to pay (or have someone pay for you) then you aren't a VIP. No, you're just a P.

The space, which is only open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, is geared towards the most fashionable club-goers. The design is all about flash, opulent to the point of gaudiness. Crafty patterns cover the bars and pillars, chandeliers hang from the ceilings, and massive lighting installations throw multi-coloured lights over the walls, the dance floor, and the hordes of partiers. The dance floor is absolutely massive, allowing sex-fuelled patrons to bump and grind on as large a scale as possible.

DJs play a mix of Hip Hop, R & B, and Top 40. Basically anything you might hear on a pop radio station, you'll hear at Pop Opera. It makes sense; the club is live-to-air every Friday on The Beat 94.5. Grab an expensive cocktail and a dance partner and get dancing. After all, that is what you're here for.