BackThese photos belonged to the archives of Rapp & Rapp Architects in Chicago, and remain our best resource on restoring Shea's Buffalo a hundred years later to its original historic state as it looked on Opening Day in 1926.
Our Grand Lobby and Grand Staircase on our Grand Opening Day. Look carefully above the stairs, you might notice that a familiar face is missing from this photograph...
Photo Credit: The Buffalo Times - September 12, 1926
Jules Lefebvre's "Mignon" has been on display over the Grand Staircase at Shea's Buffalo Theatre since September 1926, added a few months after opening. It's origins were recently discovered thanks to Anthony Chase, as originally belonging to the Astors' family and was purchased by Michael Shea from an auction.
While today this space serves as our Spotlight Lounge for Shea's Donors, in 1926 this was the Musicians' Lounge where live music was played for audiences entering the lobby!
The Petite Lobby, from the Pearl Street stairs.
Did you know? When Shea’s Buffalo Theatre first opened, the iconic red velvet seats weren't quite ready for their debut! Early audiences left the theater with an unexpected souvenir: red stains on their clothes from the fresh dye.
The Mens' Lounge (basement)
The Ladies' Room - each with a personal vanity.