A note about historical accuracy in the play “Sylvia’s Hotel”

While the play “Sylvia’s Hotel”, which was presented as part of “Two Views from the Sylvia“, is based on historical facts, literary license has also been employed to tell the family’s story and convey the sense of the time, if not absolute accuracy.

For example, in the play, Abraham is denied a license to operate the building as a hotel.  This did occur. The family believed that the reason behind the denial was that Abraham was Jewish.

On the other hand, we are not aware of historical evidence that the pier at English Bay had restrictions preventing Jews, or other selected groups, from full use of the structure. Nevertheless, there is evidence that this type of restriction occurred within Canada as did similar types of social and business exclusion in Vancouver.

For clarity regarding discrimination in Vancouver, individuals are encouraged to consult historical sources.