BackFrom 1926 to 1975, Shea’s Buffalo Theatre thrived as a cultural landmark, hosting Hollywood premieres and local events as part of the iconic 'Wonder Theatre' era. In 1948, an anti-trust ruling changed the theater's ownership to the Loew's chain, where it continued as a popular movie house. Despite shifts in the industry, including the decline of the studio system, Shea's adapted, remaining a beloved venue under new management in the mid-1960s.
The Ed Meade Era
From 1928 to 1960, Ed Meade served as the dedicated general manager of Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, leading with passion and an unwavering commitment to its success for over three decades. Under Meade's guidance, Shea’s navigated both the highs of the golden age of cinema and the shifts in the industry, remaining a thriving hub for entertainment in Buffalo.
Ed Meade (left) and Ed Miller, were long-time friends and business associates. This photo was taken in Meade's advertising office in the Wurlitzer Building, looking over autographed photos of Hollywood stars who appeared in Buffalo theatres during their carees.
Legendary cinema manager Ed Meade shares a moment with an actress, preparing for the screening of Alexander the Great.
A Moment in Shea's History (c. 1970s): Ed Meade (left) and Ed Miller, two pillars of Buffalo's theater community, reminisce over a photograph of MGM performers who graced Shea's stage in the 1940s. Miller served as the advertising manager for Shea's theaters, while Meade dedicated decades to theater management at Shea's Buffalo, contributing to the venue's golden age of entertainment.
The Marketing for Shea's
Promoting the courtroom drama Trial, Shea's Buffalo used street marketing stunts, like this character in a mock juror's outfit, inviting passersby to experience the suspense as part of the 'public jury.'
Promoting the 1955 musical film It’s Always Fair Weather, these cheerful ushers embody the lively spirit of Shea’s during its heyday.
Shea's Buffalo Theatre pulled out all the stops to promote Valley of the Kings, bringing camels to Main Street to capture the spirit of ancient Egypt. This Hollywood-inspired marketing tactic attracted crowds and made the film's premiere an unforgettable event, blending spectacle with cinema in true mid-century fashion.
for the film Alexander the Great, Shea's orchestrated another memorable event by parading elephants down the streets, further amplifying the film’s themes and immersing passersby in the cinematic experience before they even entered the theater.
The Legacy of Michael Shea
Michael Shea, a prominent figure in Buffalo's theater history, left a lasting legacy marked by his vision and dedication to entertainment. Michael Shea passed away suddenly in May of 1934 at the age of 72. His death was widely covered in local newspapers, which emphasized both his impact on the city’s cultural scene and his reputation as a beloved community leader. Shea’s passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy lived on.
Shea's in the Media
During the height of its success, Shea's Buffalo Theatre was frequently featured in newspapers and other media outlets, showcasing its role as a cultural hub in Buffalo.
