Shea’s Buffalo Theatre Kicks Off Centennial Celebration

Shea’s Performing Arts Center kicked off the centennial celebration of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre on January 15, 2025, marking 100 years since the groundbreaking for the historic theater. The celebration will continue for two years with a variety of events planned at the theater and throughout the community.

“Shea’s Buffalo Theatre holds a unique place in this community, reaching far beyond our role as an entertainment destination,” said Brian Higgins, President & CEO of Shea’s Performing Arts Center. “We are a leader in arts education, a pristinely preserved national historic treasure, a downtown Buffalo anchor, and an economic catalyst.”

A Look Back

Built in just one year and a day, Shea’s Buffalo Theatre opened its doors to the public on January 16, 1926.

Historic facade with marquee signage for the MONDER Theatre opens Saturday. — A vintage exterior view shows the theatre facade and marquee signs.

Snow-covered lot with industrial buildings and steam rising from stacks. — A wintry industrial yard with buildings in the background and steam rising from chimneys.

Men in overcoats and hats stand in a line outside buildings. — A group of men in period clothing poses outdoors in front of multi-story buildings.

Wintry outdoor industrial yard with smoke stacks, steam, and buildings — Snow-covered ground surrounds an industrial complex with steam rising from vents.

Workers stand near an industrial building demolition site with debris and smoke. — Workers observe a demolition amid rubble, equipment, and smoke rising behind them.

Demolition site with rubble and beams in front of a Wurlitzer sign and Shea Theatre facade. — A demolition scene with extensive rubble, with the Wurlitzer sign and Shea Theatre lettering visible in the background.

Large steel-framed building under construction or demolition with several vintage cars in front. — Steel framework dominates the scene as vintage cars sit in the foreground near the industrial structure.

Historic storefronts and a large theater stage structure on a city block. — A vintage view shows storefront signs and the stage/construction structure of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre.

Interior of an old theater with tall windows, scaffolding, and stacked boards. — A wide view of the theater interior showing tall windows and construction equipment.

“An architectural and design masterpiece, Shea’s Buffalo Theatre is a cultural landmark with an incredible history and a bright future,” added Jonathan Dandes, Chair of Shea’s Performing Arts Center Board of Trustees.

Experience the Wonder of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre

Historic Tours

Shea’s is offering historic tours for the public to learn about the theater’s history, preservation efforts, and get a behind-the-scenes look. Public tours are mostly held on Mondays at 6:00 PM, with the exception of Memorial Day weekend. Tickets are $25 per person.

Shea’s Buffalo Theatre Virtual Vault

The virtual vault on the Shea’s website showcases the theater’s history through photos and descriptions. The first section, featuring “Construction of Shea’s,” is now available.

Community Collaborations

Shea’s Performing Arts Center is partnering with various organizations to share the magic of Shea’s with the community. Some partners include museums, coffee shops, and breweries.

Shea’s Buffalo Centennial Logo

A new Centennial logo featuring the iconic Shea’s Buffalo blade sign has been unveiled. Merchandise featuring the new logo will be available for purchase.

Shea’s Centennial Events

A variety of special events and activities are planned throughout the two-year celebration. These include a groundbreaking centennial cocktail party, announcements of upcoming performance seasons, and the Shea’s Wonder Awards ceremony celebrating arts education and young performers.

A Legacy of Entertainment

“This historical theatre is an important component of our region’s flourishing arts and cultural community,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “The celebration of this majestic symbol of Buffalo and Erie County’s storied history serves as a reminder of the crucial role we all play to help ensure the curtain will continue to rise for many years to come.”

Shea’s Buffalo Theatre has been a center for entertainment and culture in Buffalo for nearly a century. The centennial celebration is a chance to reflect on the theater’s rich history and look forward to its bright future.

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