Every visit to Shea's is special. As soon as you walk in you feel the magic of the place. This visit was for the play Suffs, a story based on the Woman's Suffrage Movement. Fantastic play! For this play our seats were on the very top balcony. This means 4 flights of stairs!. Ha ha, you better be in shape for that walk. It was high up but ee actually had a perfect view of the stage. Shea's is celebrating it's 100 birthday and up until this point has had no elevators. They're now in the process of adding an addition which will include elevators. Since it's an addition it won't take away from the original charm of the building. If somehow you live in the Buffalo area and have never been to Shea's you really need to check it out. For everyone else. Just go again. 2026-30 read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - View from our seats, way high up! - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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We were there to hear about the 2026-27 season. Tickets are free, but we had to register. The event was called for 5:30. At 6 the doors were finally opened to sit down and hear about the season. It is now 6:15. The organ is still playing; there is no evidence of someone coming out to talk about the '26-'27 season. There are vendors in the lobby, selling beer, water, wine, popcorn. Nothing complimentary. 6:32 and the first speakers have appeared. Very disorganized. The presentation was a bit lengthy, but very nice. Each of the seven shows in the subscriber series was introduced. Guest artists performed songs from two musicals in the subscription: "Sound of Music" and "The Great Gatsby". There are three additional shows which are not part of the subscription, but to which subscribers can purchase tickets ahead of the general public. The presentation lasted about an hour. read more

When you think of going to the theatre, this is the place I would picture in my mind. Shea's is about to turn 100 years old in 2026 and it's a Buffalo staple through and through. If you had a day in Buffalo, this is one of the places you would want to check out. The shows I have been to here over the years are always well done. The staff are always so helpful and genuinely seem happy to be there. I am not a big theatre person so it's great to have them there to make sure I am in the right place and not committing any theatre mistakes. The concessions here are pretty decently priced. There is a good variety of drinks and snack options. As someone who generally goes to the movies more than the theatre, I was pleasantly surprised with the options. This space is beautiful. It makes you feel like you've stepped back in time but in the best way. The architecture alone is a reason to come check out this spot, but stay for a show and enjoy! read more

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I came here yesterday with my mom to see Riverdance. I'm glad the website mentioned that the balcony didn't have elevator access. If it wasn't mentioned, I probably would've bought seats up there, and my mom would've had a hard time getting up the stairs. I haven't been here in seven years. The building is beautiful. There are spots inside for food and pop sales and a separate area to purchase mimosas and other things, if you want to imbibe. Although I was directed to the wrong row, the ushers were nice. I'm happy with the staff here. The bathrooms are clean and nice. The show was fantastic and I'm so glad it was offered here. I'd definitely return to Shea's if there was another show that I wanted to see. read more

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There's not much more I can say about Sheas. It's always a treat to be there. I was surprised when a friend of mine, who was born here, mentioned they had never been inside. That was the decision to check out their free film series. Always on a Sunday, the films are always family friendly. Last Sunday was the latest installment from the Jurassic World franchise. I'll admit to not really caring for the film but, the opportunity to spend the afternoon in Sheas is priceless. I looked around and wondered why the house wasn't packed. Check out these chances to take the kids to a free show while experiencing the grandeur in a theater like Sheas that will never be built again. Downtown parking on a Sunday afternoon is pretty easy and all your movie house concessions are available. read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Waiting for the curtain to rise - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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Beautiful old theatre in Downtown Buffalo. Came here to see the Tony Musical winner "The OutSiders". We were very lucky to get seats in "The Pit" Mucho leg room. Beautiful old theatre even has loge seating.Great sound system and it was standing room only for this performance. Great cast of singers and dancers. Wonderful production, I could see why it won the Tony Award for best musical. read more

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Really pretty theater! We had seats in the very top row and still had a really good view of the stage, minus the heads of the people in front of us. The acoustics were good and we could still hear everything perfectly. We parked a couple streets over on a side street and didn't have to pay for parking. My one complaint is that it was absolutely boiling. We saw a show in January , so we're dressed in sweaters for the weather and I could have been in shorts and still would have been sweating. I would definitely see another show here, I would just wear layers so I am not so sweaty. read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Our view of the stage from the top row - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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Got rush tickets for my favorite show Beauty and the Beast. Our seats were in the balcony, it's been years since I sat up there so you really get to see the beauty of the theatre. The show was great and our seats were surprisingly good. They played to a full house and got more than one standing ovation. Need for some elevators is crucial. There were people with crutches going on the stairs and people stopping at every landing to rest. It was a great night out and I do recommend going to a show at this venue. read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Outside the theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

One of the most beautiful theaters around. Went to see The Thorn, so moving and beautiful. If you haven't been there yet please check out this venue- you won't be disappointed read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Interior - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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We were at Shea's for opening night of " a Beautiful Noise" about Neil Diamond. The show was excellent. Shea's has the policy to let all guests waiting in a cramped foyer and to open the doors to the theater about 30 minutes before the performance starts. Not this time. Just 10 minutes ahead of the 7:30pm start the doors opened, with no announcement why we had to stand there in the overcrowded foyer. Needless to say the performance started late. read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Shea's Performing Arts Center, ready for Waitress - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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Wow, this theatre is amazing. We attended a wedding that was over-the-top. Totally based on a musical theatre theme. The ceremony was held on the stage and the couple and the wedding party came down the aisles. A very simple but moving service with the exchange of vows and expressions of love that could bring you to joyful tears. The cocktail hour was held in the lobby with speciality drinks and snacks. While we waited for dinner the entire stage was converted to a dining space with a full dance floor and 12 piece band. They rocked the night away. Each of the tables was a theme: Shrek, Legally Blonde, Back to the Future, etc. I was blow away by the entire event. Keep in mind this is a big theatre. I would say it is somewhere between the size of the largest Broadway theatre and Radio City Music Hall. If you get a chance to see a show here you won't be disappointed. read more

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My whole family loves Shea's and their ushers and concession people are the nicest. But we have NEVER been there without security being rude...every time. I always leave feeling like an idiot. They need some training on how to be firm AND kind. I'm sure the public is frustrating but there is no reason to make people feel dumb for not knowing something. Be professional. read more

My husband and I and some family came here to see Wicked, and we had a great time! Getting into the theater was a quick and easy experience. You just had to walk through the detector and then get your ticket scanned. The line moved so fast, you didn't really have to wait at all. The security guards who were checking us in were friendly and cracking jokes with people. The theater itself is beautiful. I will say, the only negative was the bathroom experience. It was such a long line for the women's room, which it always is wherever you go. People were cutting in line which isn't Shea's fault, but is annoying. It was also very crowded trying to get through to the concession line, but the line moved fast once you were in it. Overall we had a great time at the show and will be back to see more! read more

This theatre is Bellissima! The decor and layout are beautiful and give vibes of the place you want to be. If you love everything theatre of course. I came here for a weeknight showing of the musical & Juliet, and it was fantastic! Our seats were at the lower end of the balcony, and it provided a perfect view of the whole musical. The service was extremely friendly and the staff were able to help me find my seat and walked me to them. Such a fantastic date night! read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

What a beautiful theater!! We went to see Neil Diamond Musical and just enjoyed every bit of the show. The staff were friendly and we only could get last row balcony seats and they were just fine. There is not elevator so if you're in the balcony be prepared to walk up stairs, however, it's not one long staircase. So you can take a break on each of the floors. I definitely plan to see other shows here, great theater. read more

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Went last night to see the MJ experience. The show was amazing! Of course, I'm an Mj fan, but my husband is team Prince, but he even said the show was really good. The sheas venue is nice. Could use some updates. The chairs are not comfortable at all. Also, it is not very friendly for seniors, disabled and / or just bad knees people. Having only stairs to get up to seats seems outdated. Outside of that the staff is always very friendly and helpful, tons of spirits to be had. Make sure you buy a sheas cup for your drink and next time you can bring for discounted drink price! read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Mj experience at Sheas - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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I took my significant other to "A Night Before Christmas" by Cirque de Soleil before the holidays. The show was marvelous, filled with the fantastical gymnastic talents while telling a family oriented story. The pace was fast and supported by holiday themed music. The show ran 90 minutes which was perfect. We sat at the front of the balcony and had a great view of all the action. read more

An amazing and beautiful hall! We didn't know that we entered through the back side but once inside, it made more sense. It was so beautiful in there and didn't smell old although it looked old but kept well. The inside theatre was cozy, but with they had drink holders. Oh well, still a great experience! read more

It's always a great experience here. Parking can be a little tricky and expensive depending on say and time and other events occurring in the area. There are tons of great restaurants to grab a bite to eat before or after most shows. The ushers are always helpful, professional, and knowledgeable. The performances are always top-notch, and bathrooms, hallways, stairways, and lobby are always clean and presentable. There are a few signs of wear and tear throughout the building but never "worn down." Seats aren't lounge style in any, but every seat I've experienced has had a clear view and are comfortable enough to enjoy the whole performance. Food and drinks are expensive but a main way they make money. The roasted pecans are amazing! Great experience for all art and theater fans!!! read more

Saw the Lion King at Shea's today. This is such a nice venue for Broadway Shows. I bought a Balcony 4 ticket in Row R. Though it was high up, i had a great center view and the acoustic was amazing. So even a cheaper ticket will let you enjoy the show. I parked on Franklin street with the mobile parking app, it was only $4.00 for a whole day. read more

Lovely venue and helpful staff & volunteers. Have been here many times and enjoy the classic ambiance.

Although the shows are awesome, late comers are a nuisance! The show starts and you are always bothered by people who come late and your enjoyment is interrupted by them working their way through your row of seats! They should be a way for them to wait for a break and then disrupt people. read more

I'm a season ticket holder, and while the shows are always incredible, it's too damn expensive! I've seen shows BETTER than here for half the price. (Lancaster opera house, rocking horse, starry night theater, palace theater). It's a fun, but expensive night out, and I'm not totally sure it's worth it 100% of the time. You shouldn't need to break the bank to enjoy live theatre. read more

I came here tonight to see a comedy show. It's nice and well staffed, drinks are reasonably priced. Staffs are helpful and the place is clean. 4 stars because the seats aren't just comfortable. I wish they would update it. Maybe someday but overall all the place was phenomenal. read more

Beautiful venue. Hamilton was so well done. The orchestra was great! I loved the venue.

A truly beautiful theatre in the arts district / downtown. This stretch is hit and miss, vacancies, closures.. but the sign must be 4 stories high, beautiful looking, interior equally impressive. If new to Buffalo: check out Allentown, Elmwood, downtown, Buffalo is a great city, I'd leave Toronto in 5 seconds if that option were available.... And they had better health care and less anti VAX Trump nut jobs ;)) Buffalo takes some exploring and research, but worth the energy! read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Another Buffalo classic I've somehow neglected to review! I've been coming to see shows at Shea's since I was a little girl. From the Rockettes to Phantom of the Opera, and most recently, To Kill a Mockingbird, I've seen so many great performances here! Every year they seem to have a great lineup of tours that stop by, so there's always something new. It's such a treat to go to Shea's! The building is so historic and beautiful. Everything is so ornate and I find something new to look at each time I'm in. There's plenty of seats, but do note that a lot of them are very cramped, so if you've got long legs you might be a little uncomfy! They've got booths for drinks, snacks, and merchandise all conveniently located throughout the different tiers of the theater. The only thing they don't offer is convenient (free) parking, so do take that into account when you stop in to see a show. Shea's is a true Buffalo gem! We are so lucky to have such a storied theater that offers some of Broadway's best. read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

What a beautiful theater and town! My friends and I were there for Four Sticks Saturday night! I can't say enough about the staff! They are very nice people! Thank you very much for the wonderful time! Highly recommend. read more

Love this place! It's cozy and elegant with everything for your entertainment and viewing pleasure from candy concessions and chandeliers to complimentary booster seats for the wee ones. Even the seats at the tippee top of the theater have a decent view of the stage. My one complaint is that intermission consists of super long lines for the ladies restroom but no lines for the mens. Well duh, this is not uncommon. Maybe gender neutral restrooms with sufficient privacy could solve this. Also, there was no changing table in the women's restroom but there was one in the men's restroom in the basement. Not sure what that was all about but that needs to change (pun intended). There are concessions on every floor where you can get things like popcorn or candy and also wine and non-alcoholic beverages. Not sure if beer is served but Bart O'Boofer might know that one since he likes beer. Still likes beer. But I digress. Anyway, a beautiful venue with a lots of visual appeal. read more

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Saw a wonderful production of Cats in this classic theatre designed by the renown theatre architects, Rapp & Rapp. The theatre was been marvelously restored , they only need to find a way to augment the restroom facilities which were too few and not properly maintained between intermission read more

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I don't enjoy leaving a review but this one is needed. Ben at the box office is an absolute saint. Ran into issues with tickets and he went above and beyond to help out. I have never dealt with a single person in customer service like this man. He got right to action and solved the issue. Enjoyed the show and had a great time due to Ben. Thank you. read more

can't believe I have never reviewed one of my favorite places! Every time I come here I am in awe of the spectacular work that has been done on renovations! Thank God this treasure was saved from the wrecking ball. Over the last 40 years I have watched this theater transform itself to better than new! It hard to list the performances I've seen, the majority are spectacular Broadway productions and I have loved them all. I highly recommend coming to this Buffalo jewel! read more

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Beautiful theater. I've been here many times and each time I discover something new. The shows that are brought here are very well done. I think I've sat in just about every location from floor to balcony, even the last row! Never have I been disappointed. From comedy acts to Broadway type musicals this theater handles them all in style. read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - I laughed my face off! - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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I love going to Sheas to see a show. The theater is simply beautiful and historic. However; I always hate the wait in the atrium especially during Covid times. If you don't like crowds, arrive as close to the performance as possible whilst not arriving late. I also very much dislike the seating. For a taller guy such as myself, you're legs will end up numb from being jammed into the backs of the seats ahead of you. Luckily I know this so I always buy an isle seat. Oh the charms of older theaters... Acoustics of this place are great and there is not a bad seat in the house. You'll enjoy the show no matter where in the back you sit. read more

Classy. Opulent. Historic. Buffalo's best. A must see place. Sure it's acoustic might be off a bit. It's not a modern concert hall. Leg room is tight. No recliner seats lol! I enjoy seeing a live show of my liking at least once or twice every year. All have been great at Sheas. Tonight we saw Dancing With the Stars Live. What a show! What talent! Just wow amazing! I think this has to be one of the best live dance shows we have ever seen. We are huge fans of the TV series, but seeing these dancers live was a dream. To see it at Sheas was like icing on the cake. My pre-teen daughter was in la-la land, gushing in excitement and wonder of it all... the gorgeous dancers and the lavish interior of Shea's. Opulence fit for my little princess. You would think she attended a fairy tale ball! read more

Excellent place to see a show. I saw Lion King yesterday and sat towards the back of the orchestra section. The floor is slanted down so the viewing angle was good, and because the place isn't that big, you are never that far from the stage. Seats can be a bit tight with a winter jacket, you may want to check it. The sound was decent with speakers in the front stage and at the back too. The first half of the show was a bit too low in volume but they fixed it during the second half. The restrooms in the basement are too far and a hassle. Only a few stalls for men. The concession stand has very reasonable prices and coffee in case you need a caffeine jolt (though the coffee tastes weak). I usually park in the big lot located on the other side of the holiday inn and Friday's for only a few bucks. read more

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Another successful year and what a wonderful night celebrating the first show in Shea's 710 Theater. It was an incredible performance and we can't wait to see what this new stage brings. Standing ovation to Renee Elise Goldsberry and surrounding talent. read more

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Sometimes a crisis helps you define what is important in your life. COVID has taught me that one of those things is Shea's Performing Arts Center and the cultural access it provides the area. I have been to this theater for everything from Sesame Street Live, to Hamilton, to John Meloncamp. I have fought with tween kids about souvenirs at Wicked and the Lion King. I have "talked" to the star of Les Miserables via Instagram about how I thought his rendition was better than Cookie Monster's. All of that to say that this is an important institution. Moreover, it is a beautiful, historic location, where even the "worst" seats can provide the best experience. I am counting down the days until this intermission is over. read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Shea's, also known as "The Wonder Theatre", is a Buffalo institution. It has been beautifully restored over the recent years and upon stepping inside I feel like I'm entering the theatre as it was when it opened- grand, beautiful, breathtaking. The architecture and design is fabulous and even if they didn't have such amazing shows playing you could spend time just taking it all in I came in with a few girlfriends for the 20th anniversary RENT tour this week. It was a wonderful show! While there truly isn't a bad seat in the house, the balcony seats don't provide that much leg room so we opted for orchestra seats. The ushers were incredible helpful in assisting us to find our seats, and they were graciously collecting donations at the end of show to support HIV and AIDS research and individuals suffering from the disease. Things to know: -you can enter from either main st or pearl st -they have snacks, non alcoholic beverages, and alcoholic beverages- however, no alcohol is permitted into the theater read more

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stunning, beautiful, breath taking!!! do yourself a favor and go see a show! you won't regret it! read more

Shea's Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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