In the heart of Buffalo's theater district lies one of the city's hidden architectural treasures- Shea's Performing Arts Center.  The theater is filled with rich history, and is host to some of the top touring Broadway musicals in the country, as well as many other special events.  Nicknamed "The Wonder Theater," the interior boasts both an acoustically sound and a beautifully ornate concert venue.  This stunning facility really has something for everyone.

The theater was originally opened up in 1926 as a place to show silent films.  It was named after Michael Shea, a theatrical showman from Canada and a huge supporter of the arts.  Construction of the theater took approximately one year.  Designed by C.W. and George Rapp of Chicago, it was designed to resemble opera houses and palaces of Europe of the 16th and 17th century.  The theater originally accommodated 4,000 people, but several hundred seats were eventually removed for comfort purposes, and there is still about one acre of seating on the interior.  In 1975, Shea's was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a list of prestigious sites across the country deemed worthy of preservation.

Shea's is also home to one of the only theater organs that is still in operation in the theater it was originally designed for.  The theater's "Mighty Wurlitzer" was a custom design built by the Wurlitzer Company and was one of only five in the world that had tonal finishing, provided directly from the Wurlitzer factory, after it had been installed in the theater.  The organ has had several parts stolen throughout its history, but fortunately it has been restored back to playing condition.

Almost every aspect of the inside of Shea's is clean and pristine, thanks to the help of the non-profit organization Friends of Buffalo Theater.  This organization has kept the theater alive by sponsoring renovations and an expansion of the stage facilities to accommodate larger touring productions.

There have been many great performers that have graced the stage at Shea’s including George Burns, Frank Sinatra, The Marx Brothers, and Bing Crosby, among others.  The Broadway National Tours that came to Shea's this season alone include The Lion King, Million Dollar Quartet, The Addams Family, Les Miserables, South Pacific, and Memphis.  Season tickets range from $180-$420 depending on where you choose to sit, which is a really good deal considering the wide range of events a season pass gives access to.  The theater is also handicap accessible, and there is special seating available for those in wheelchairs.

I personally have a plethora of fond memories from my childhood that took place at this particular theater.  As a lover of the arts and all things musical, my father purchased season tickets for many years.  He started taking me to shows at a very young age, and theater soon became something that me and my father were able to bond over.  One of my favorite shows I have ever seen with my father at Shea's was Rent.  The glorious songs and choreography combined with the sheer beauty of the theater brought me to tears.  On certain occasions, I was even able to go backstage and meet with some of the performers and see behind the scenes.

The theater venue is not just for performances alone.  The area is often rented out for various special events such as banquets, wedding receptions, galas, and dinner parties.  The gorgeous scenery is a great backdrop to any celebratory occasion.  The theater also offers tours by reservation, and hosts a number of educational programs and summer camps for all ages.

The theater is located in the heart of the city of Buffalo, New York.  Nearby lie many delicious restaurants, reasonably priced hotels, and numerous other popular attractions.  The theater also lies directly on the tracks of Buffalo's metro system, for easy and affordable transportation to and from the shows.

Why should people go to this theater and not choose a different theater?  When you buy a ticket for Shea's Performing Arts Center, you aren't just paying for a show, you are paying for a theatrical experience.  From the minute you enter the doors, you are greeted warmly by ushers who show you to your seat in the magnificently decorated theater.  During intermission, the scent of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies fills the building, making your mouth water.  Everything from the crystal chandeliers to the restrooms to the stage is gorgeously crafted and kept in impeccable shape.  Children and adults are guaranteed to have a fantastic time, and leave with unforgettable memories that last forever.

Works Cited

Shea’s Performing Arts Center. N.p., 2007-2010. Web. 1 Feb. 2012. <http://www.sheas.org/>.

“Shea’s Performing Arts Center 2011-2012.”  Shea’s Performing Arts Center. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Feb. 2012. <http://publications.mybrochures.org/‌sheas_buffalo/‌2011_2012_Brochure/>.