Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Destination for Broadway Shows & Cultural Events in Buffalo
Shea's Performing Arts Center has been a cornerstone of Buffalo's cultural identity since 1926, dedicated to preserving the historic Sheas Buffalo Theatre while delivering world-class performing arts experiences. Our mission focuses on restoring and maintaining this National Historic Site as a working theater, providing diverse programming that includes touring Broadway productions, local collaborations, and educational initiatives. With three distinct venues on our campus, we serve as a hub for artistic innovation and community engagement, offering over 200 annual performances that attract audiences from across Western New York. Our educational programs reach thousands of students annually, fostering appreciation for live theater through workshops, camps, and school partnerships.As a non-profit organization, we rely on community support to sustain our operations and continue our $30 million restoration efforts, which have been driven by dedicated volunteers. Our team combines decades of theater expertise with a commitment to accessibility, ensuring that our programming remains inclusive and impactful for all patrons. Through strategic partnerships and community-driven initiatives, we've become a catalyst for downtown Buffalo's cultural renaissance, maintaining the only surviving Tiffany-designed theater in pristine condition. Our dedication to excellence has earned recognition as a regional arts leader, with programming that consistently meets the highest artistic standards while remaining accessible to diverse audiences.
Services
Broadway Shows
Educational Programs
Theater Rentals
Historic Tours
Group Tickets
Gift Cards
Dining Services
Comedy Performances
Summer Camps
Event Hosting
Details
- Year established: 1926
Highlights and features
- 100-year legacy preserving Buffalo's historic theater architecture
- Three unique venues offering diverse performing arts experiences
- Award-winning educational programs serving 10,000+ students annually
- Recipient of $30 million in community-driven restoration efforts
- Host to top-tier Broadway productions and local artistic collaborations
Associations and certifications
- National Register for Historic Places
Services
Broadway Shows
Shea's presents top-tier Broadway touring productions in our historic venues. Our main stage hosts major national tours while smaller spaces showcase intimate performances. All productions maintain the highest artistic standards while making theater accessible to diverse audiences.
Educational Programs
Our comprehensive education initiatives serve students through camps, workshops, and school partnerships. Programs include summer musical theater intensives, comedy camps, and the WNY Unified College Auditions. We've impacted over 10,000 students annually since launching our educational mission.
Historic Tours
Explore the restored grandeur of Buffalo's only surviving Tiffany-designed theater. Guided tours reveal architectural details, historical artifacts, and behind-the-scenes spaces. Visitors learn about our $30 million restoration journey and century-long cultural impact.
Theater Rentals
Our three venues accommodate diverse events from corporate functions to private performances. The Smith Theatre's flexible black box space and 710 Theatre's thrust stage design offer unique configurations for special occasions and artistic productions.
Group Tickets
Special pricing and seating arrangements available for groups of 10+. Includes access to premium seating options and exclusive dining packages. Ideal for school field trips, corporate outings, and community organization events.
People
Victoria Prez-Maggiolo
Vice President of Arts Engagement and Education
Award-winning bilingual theater artist with 25+ years experience. Co-founder of Races Theatre Company, Buffalo's only Latino theater company. Specializes in using theater for cultural awareness and community transformation.
Jake Grear
Arts Education Coordinator
Buffalo State theater graduate with extensive production experience. Former teaching artist and stage manager. Coordinates educational programs connecting students with professional theater opportunities across Western New York.
Alejandro Gmez
Lead Teaching Artist
Artie-nominated performer and member of Races Theatre Company. Buffalo State graduate with theater degree. Develops curriculum for youth programs while maintaining active performance schedule in regional productions.
Questions
How do I purchase tickets for Shea's performances?
Tickets can be purchased through our website, box office (650 Main St), or by phone at 716-847-0850. Online purchases are available 24/7 with instant digital delivery options.
What types of shows does Shea's present?
We host Broadway tours, local theater productions, comedy shows, and special events. Our three venues accommodate diverse programming from large-scale musicals to intimate performances.
Are educational programs available for students?
Yes! We offer summer camps, workshops, and school partnerships for ages 9-17. Programs include musical theater intensives, comedy training, and college audition preparation with professional theater artists.
Can I tour the historic theater?
Guided tours of our National Historic Site are available. Explore architectural highlights, learn about our 1926 origins, and discover the restoration journey that preserved this Tiffany-designed masterpiece.
How can I support Shea's mission?
Support options include donations, corporate sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities. Contributions fund restoration projects, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives that sustain our cultural legacy.
Are group discounts available for performances?
Yes, groups of 10+ receive special pricing and seating arrangements. Contact our group sales team for customized packages including premium seating and dining options for corporate events or school trips.
Reviews (4)
Carol Kelly
Jan 10, 2022
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My son took his daughter and I to see Hamilton! Saw it on TV but there is nothing like the theater! The elegance of Sheas really adds to the experience. I wish I could afford season tickets. I loved it! The best gift I ever got!
Mickey Spak
Jan 04, 2022
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Beautiful theater. They have really done a nice job with the up keep of this place. Yes currently you need to be vaccinated and wear a mask at all times. Meaning if you get something to drink lower the mask, drink then pull it back over your face. Don't blame them for government official rules as they have to force these rules to keep there doors open and provide nice and good shows.
Lucas Walker
Jan 01, 2022
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Absolutely Amazed at the Talent Presented at this Age Old Theater. The theater itself is nestled in eclectic down town Buffalo with free train access. The buildings restorative atmosphere and the Decor is reminiscent of the past-a real draw for avid theater seekers. The performances rival the lights of the marquee. A pleasure too be attended by me.
K. W.
Dec 23, 2021
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Always a please t experience. Only complaint would be needing more areas to order drinks. The wait for a drink is insane at times.
