Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - January 15th marks the 100-year anniversary of Shea's Buffalo Theatre groundbreaking.
Shea's President and CEO, Brian Higgins, says the launch marks the beginning of two years of centennial festivities planned at the theatre and in the community during 2025 and 2026.
"Shea’s Buffalo Theatre holds a unique place in this community, reaching far beyond our role as an entertainment destination. Shea’s is part of Buffalo's identity. We are a leader in arts education, a pristinely preserved national historic treasure, a downtown Buffalo anchor, and an economic catalyst. As we reflect on our 100 years of history, we are working to strengthen the foundation built by Michael Shea to sustain the enduring power of Shea’s for generations to come," stated Higgins.
Shea’s Performing Arts Center is bringing the history of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre to life through a virtual vault featured on the Shea’s website, which tells the story of the theatre throughout the decades through photos and descriptive elements. The vault will be opened in phases with the first section, featuring “Construction of Shea’s."
This historical theatre is an important component of our region's flourishing arts and cultural community,” stated Erie County Executive Mark 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 Performing Arts Center will be holding a number of special events and activities, including a groundbreaking centennial cocktail party on January 16th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. EST. Tickets are available on their website for $19.25 per person.