Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) A major milestone for Shea's Theatre. Friday marks the centennial anniversary of its grand opening.
This was a different time in the city's history," said Shea's President and CEO Brian Higgins on WBEN. "And Michael Shea was a charismatic visionary who led the efforts to establish Shea's Theatre."
The theatre opened to great fanfare on January 16, 1926.
"It was a period of incredible growth. There was great wealth in the city. Manufacturing was a major source of the economy, primarily due to hydroelectricity," added Higgins.
Shea's was built for $1.8 million dollars, (about $35 million in today's dollars).
It was a major motion picture house and vaudeville. Higgins said it was almost demolished in the 1970's, but saved from the wrecking ball.
Higgins shared another little known fact.
"WBEN used to broadcast live performances right from the Shea's stage."
A celebration will be held Friday in the Grand Lobby and on the stage with live entertainment.
Shea's will embark on a 25 thousand square foot addition in March which will add new restrooms, elevators and add more space for accessibility in the lobby.
