Since its opening in January 1926, this all-purpose arts facility in the Buffalo Theater District has presented the drama and comedy of some the most famous stars and scenes in the 20th Century. From the silly antics of the Marx Brothers and Bob Hope to powerful performances in The Phantom of the Opera and Miss Saigon, Shea has seen it all. The National Register of Historic Places bestowed status upon the building in 1975 and today this baroque inspired facility still attracts some 300,000 patrons annually with its eclectic combination of Broadway musicals, opera, dance, children's programming, concerts and classic movies. Some patrons come just to see the theater in order to be dazzled with the ornate filigreed Rococo style and Tiffany-designed crystal chandeliers.
This non-profit organization to nurture and promote African-American culture and arts was founded by beloved Buffalo native Malcolm Erni in 1958. The center houses the Paul Robeson Theatre, the Kakilambi African Dance and Drum Troupe and the African World Studies Archives. It is the first such cultural center in Buffalo to promote the African diaspora; the facility also features classes in drama, dance, percussion, African history, reading, math and arts and crafts for both adults and children. Throughout the year, the center also hosts special programs which help inner-city kids find better pathways towards academic and personal success.
Rockwell Hall is a specimen of Georgian-style architecture that houses the Art Conservation Department, Band Rehearsal Hall, Burchfield-Penney Art Center, School of Arts and Humanities, Metcalfe Rooms, the Music Department and the jewel in the Buffalo State College crown—The Performing Arts Center. Since it is the official performance venue of the university, art students have regular shows that include plays, concerts, recitals and dance performances.
Located in a turn-of-the-century building in Lancaster, east of Buffalo, this 350-seat arts center features a variety of performing arts: from operettas and contemporary musicals to jazz concerts, drama, and dance. The opera house runs a 10-month season from Sep to Jun. Past productions have included blockbuster hits such as Gypsy, West Side Story, and The Merry Widow. There are matinee specials for kids, and special event features such as The Haunted Opera House and Crafts In The Village.