BackThe construction of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre began with a groundbreaking on January 15, 1925, and remarkably, it took only one year and one day to complete. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Rapp & Rapp, Shea’s was built to resemble the grand opera houses of Europe, featuring intricate interior designs by Louis Comfort Tiffany. This architectural gem opened its doors on January 16, 1926, to the delight of Buffalo audiences.
Winter of 1925
Michael Shea leads the groundbreaking ceremony on January 15, 1925, shovel in hand, as local business owners gather on Main Street to support this monumental project. The event marked the beginning of what would become a Buffalo landmark, symbolizing the community's excitement for the future Shea's Buffalo Theatre.
The original storefronts on Main Street were completely torn down to make way for Shea's Buffalo Theatre. Securing an entrance on this bustling street was vital, ensuring the theater would be at the heart of Buffalo's vibrant downtown.
This building, located on Main Street, was completely removed to make space for the new Shea's Buffalo Theatre. Its demolition paved the way for the grand construction that would redefine this area of Buffalo
Steam shovels were used for the project to dig deep for the basement and sub-basement of Shea's Buffalo Theatre. This view from Pearl Street shows the back of the construction site, where heavy machinery was essential in shaping the foundation.
Despite heavy snowfall, construction on Shea's continued at a steady pace. This view from Pearl Street captures the determination of the crew as they pressed forward, ensuring progress through Buffalo's tough winter weather.
The large mound visible in this photo was intentionally left in place to support the seating in the orchestra level, ensuring a stable foundation for Shea’s grand audience area.
Spring of 1925
On March 23, 1925, construction reached a significant milestone as workers began pouring the foundation of Shea's Buffalo Theatre, laying the groundwork for what would become a centerpiece of Buffalo's cultural scene
To support the massive structure of Shea's Buffalo Theatre, builders had to dig down to bedrock. A wooden platform was constructed, upon which 50 tons of iron ore ingots were piled to achieve the necessary weight, ensuring they reached solid ground. This meticulous process was repeated wherever a steel beam was to be installed, reflecting the careful engineering behind this monumental project.
Summer of 1925
The start of the steel structure marked a significant milestone in Shea's construction, embracing a newer concept in building design. All the steel used in this ambitious project was sourced from Bethlehem Steel's Lackawanna factory, ensuring a robust framework for this architectural masterpiece.
The exterior brickwork of Shea's Buffalo Theatre began to take shape, marking an important step in its construction. This meticulous craftsmanship would ultimately contribute to the theater's stunning façade, a blend of elegance and durability that would stand the test of time.
The façade of Shea's Buffalo Theatre features exquisite glazed terracotta brickwork, adding a touch of sophistication to its exterior.
Fall of 1925
Shea's Buffalo Theatre boasts a seating capacity of over 4,000, creating an intimate yet grand atmosphere for audiences. Notably, the balcony design features no central support; instead, the weight is elegantly distributed outward to the surrounding columns. This innovative architectural choice includes a built-in flex of 5/16, allowing for both structural integrity and aesthetic beauty.
Winter of 1926
Just before the grand opening, the finishing touches are being added to Shea's Buffalo Theatre, including elegant drapery that enhances the lobby's opulent design.
January 16, 1926, marked the completion of the remarkable one-year-and-one-day construction journey for Shea's Buffalo Theatre. This monumental project was a testament to the vision and dedication of all involved, culminating in the creation of a stunning venue that would serve as a cultural landmark in Buffalo.