There are plenty of opportunities for great theater in Buffalo. Probably the most popular theater is Shea’s Performing Arts Center. It is listed on the National Registrar of Historic Places and offers tours of its architecture and history, in addition to great theater. Shea’s routinely hosts well-known touring Broadway plays such as Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King. As a native Long Island New Yorker, I have been to many Broadway plays in NYC and have found plays at Shea’s to be just as good--and definitely more reasonably priced. Apart from plays, Shea’s also holds a number of other fun events.
In winter months, Shea’s has a free Classic Films series. Films are shown on the big screen in Shea’s historic theater. Past films have been Miracle on 34th Street, It’s a Wonderful Life, and Ghostbusters (a classic for any child of the ‘80s). Free tickets can be picked up in advance at the Shea’s box office or at local grocery store chains. Another popular Shea’s event is Curtain Up! This celebration marks the beginning of the fall production series and features elegant dining, pre- and post-dinner parties. It is a formal affair and is pricey. I have not been to Curtain Up! myself, but I know others who have gone and enjoyed it very much. For more information on shows, plays, and events, visit: http://www.sheas.org/site/live/home_flash.html
I have also enjoyed the Irish Classical Theater in downtown Buffalo. It is a small theater specializing in Irish dramas and international classics. The theater is very intimate, seating only 200, and seats are set up circling the stage. For more information, visit: http://www.irishclassicaltheatre.com/.
A true university town, with University at Buffalo, Buffalo State, Canisius College, and several others, there are many worthwhile and affordable university-sponsored theater events in Buffalo. Try the UB Center for the Arts for a full range of plays, concerts, and speakers. Visit http://www.ubcfa.org/ for details.
A little bit of a drive, but worth it, the Lancaster Opera House offers plays, concerts, and other events. Visit http://www.lancopera.org/.
For a night of independent films, try the Screening Room Cinema Café. This dinner theater in the Buffalo suburb of Amherst shows movies on its big screen while serving up food in its restaurant-style setting. Visit http://www.screeningroom.net/page14.html for show times and details.