Shea's Buffalo Theatre — Attraction in Buffalo

DO NOT COME TO SHEAS IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE IS DISABLED, DIFFERENTLY ABLED, OR NEED ACCOMMODATIONS!!

On January 24, 2025, my mom and I went to see Kevin Hart at Shea’s Theatre. We’ve always bonded over his comedy, and I wanted to treat her to a fun night out since she doesn’t get to go out as much due to being wheelchair-bound as of a few years ago. However, what was supposed to be a special evening quickly turned into a nightmare because of the complete lack of accessibility and support from Shea’s staff.

For context it was not actively snowing, had not snowed since the day before, it was mainly just the wind that made it unbearably cold and we showed up almost 45 min BEFORE the event was set to start. We also had to call ahead to sheas (a month prior) to purchase wheelchair accessible seats, and they assured us that my mothers needs would be met as long as we arrived early to get proper accommodations.

When we arrived, the walkways outside were unshoveled and unsalted, making it incredibly difficult for my mom’s electric wheelchair to get through the snow. The pavement was completely covered, and people rushed past us, barely noticing or offering help. People also began cutting us in line when my mother wheelchair got stuck, leading us to be outside for longer. I flagged down a security guard to ask if the entrance we were at (Pearl st) had a wheelchair ramp. He didn’t know, but said he’d check. After waiting in the freezing cold for over 15 minutes, we were told the only accessible entrance was in the opposite direction, through a parking lot. We had to go back through the snow, struggling again with piles of snow while people ignored us.

Once we made it to the ramped entrance, we waited outside in the cold again for over 15 minutes, having to start at the back of another long line and I had to fight through a crowd just to find security with no luck. Ended up having to leave my mother in the foyer to run through the snow back to Pearl st to find someone to help us. Found a manager and explained the situation to him. The first thing he did was sit there and CRITICIZE ME for leaving my mother alone, I explained to him she can’t make it thought all this snow, your security guard already sent us back and forth, and had there been some security at the ONLY WHEELCHAIR ACCESIBLE ENTRACNE I wouldn’t of had to run all the way over here. He begrudgingly walked me back to my mom but then left us alone when we tried to check in. I had to flag him down again to ask for help getting through the crowded foyer, but he told me there was nothing he could do and walked away. After battling through the crowd ourselves, we finally got to our seats, exhausted and frustrated.

When the show was coming to and end, I asked another manager for help getting my mom out. We were told to wait until the crowd cleared, I explained I wanted her to get out before the crowd started and was told they couldn’t help us. Once the crowd did start my mom couldn’t even move because of how packed it was. We ended up waiting for over 35 minutes before anyone could help us, and by then, I couldn’t even get my van to the ramped parking lot due to the crowd.

I am deeply disappointed by how my mom and I were treated. Shea’s claims to be welcoming to everyone, but it felt like they only care about those who don’t need accommodations. My mom deserved a better experience, she was PROMISED an amazing experience like everyone else by Sheas and I want to bring attention to how poorly she was treated, hoping that changes are made so no one else has to go through what we did.

If you or a loved one have a disability, DO NOT come to Shea’s. They will treat you like you don’t matter and will dismiss your concerns without a bat of an eye. I paid over $300 for tickets to treat my mom, and the only treatment she received was being treated like a burden. Shame on Sheas...

Dear Shea's Performing Arts Center Management,

I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding an incident of discrimination that my family and I recently experienced at your theater. On June 15, 2024, my autistic son, Lucas, was unfairly targeted and mistreated during a performance at your venue due to his need to stim, which is a crucial self-regulating behavior for individuals with autism.

During the performance, Lucas began stimming, which involves repetitive movements or noises that help him manage sensory overload and anxiety. Despite his behavior being harmless and necessary for his well-being, we were approached by a staff member who informed us that his actions were disruptive and unacceptable. We were then given an ultimatum to either make him stop or leave the theater.

We were located in orchestra 5, row V, seats 49 and 51. Upon arrival, I explained Lucas' disability to those around me and everyone was kind and understanding, even telling me "warning" them was not necessary and that he deserved to be there just as much as anyone else.

This situation was extremely distressing for my son, who was looking forward to enjoying the performance. Additionally, the staff's approach was not only insensitive but also discriminatory, failing to recognize the needs of individuals with autism. When I inquired about possible accommodations or alternatives, such as a sensory-friendly space or noise-cancelling headphones, we were offered none.

This lack of understanding and accommodation is deeply concerning, especially given that many public venues have made significant strides towards inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. As a respected establishment, I expected Shea's Performing Arts Center to be more attuned to the needs of all its patrons, including those with disabilities.

I am requesting that the management of Shea's Performing Arts Center take immediate action to address this issue, including: Providing staff with comprehensive training on autism and the needs of individuals with sensory processing issues. Implementing clear policies and procedures to support and accommodate individuals with disabilities during performances. Establishing designated sensory-friendly areas or offering sensory tools to help individuals who require them.

Furthermore, I would appreciate a formal apology for the distress caused to my son and our family. It is my hope that no other family has to endure the same experience and that Shea's Performing Arts Center becomes a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all patrons.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response and the positive changes that will ensure a more inclusive experience for all visitors.

Sincerely,

Lilly Clayson

Shea's Arts Engagement and Education Shea's...

I recently had the pleasure of attending the 43 North finals at Shea's Performing Arts Center, an event that not only highlighted the bright future of Buffalo’s entrepreneurs but also paid homage to the city's rich cultural heritage embodied by this historic venue.

From its inception in 1926, Shea's Performing Arts Center has been a jewel in Buffalo’s crown. Originally called "Shea's Buffalo," it was part of the dream of Michael Shea, a visionary who wanted to create a lavish movie theater in the heart of the city. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Rapp and Rapp, the theater reflects a Spanish Baroque style with intricate details, grandiose furnishings, and a beautifully adorned ceiling that takes your breath away. It was a delight to see how these elements have been meticulously preserved, offering a glimpse into the glamorous era of the Roaring Twenties.

As I walked through the grand lobby, with its ornate decor and stunning chandeliers, I felt transported back in time. The theater's rich history as a premier destination for silent films, vaudeville performances, and now as a hub for Broadway productions and significant events like the 43 North finals, was palpable in every corner.

The 43 North event itself was a perfect blend of past and present. Surrounded by the theater's historic splendor, the energy of innovation and entrepreneurship was electrifying. The stage, which once hosted legends like George Burns and the Marx Brothers, became a platform for the future's visionaries. The excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art lighting enhanced each presentation, making it a memorable experience for everyone present.

Throughout the evening, the staff at Shea's demonstrated why this venue has been a beloved part of Buffalo for almost a century. Their professionalism and warmth added a personal touch to the grandeur of the environment.

In conclusion, Shea's Performing Arts Center is not just a building; it's a living piece of Buffalo's history, continually evolving while retaining its historic charm. Attending an event like the 43 North finals here was not just about witnessing the birth of new companies but also about experiencing a part of Buffalo's soul. This night at Shea's will be etched in my memory as a testament to the city's enduring spirit and its...