This week, Shea’s Performing Arts Center and MusicalFare Theatre announced a transformative new collaboration that will redefine Buffalo’s theater district. MusicalFare Theatre will relocate from its long-standing home at Daemen University to Shea’s Performing Arts Center’s 710 Theatre, beginning with the 2025-26 season. The move marks a pivotal moment for both organizations and promises to bring fresh energy to Buffalo’s Downtown Theatre District.
MusicalFare will take up residence in the historic former Studio Arena space, which will now serve as its primary venue with a 10-year lease agreement and an option for an additional decade. Brian Higgins, President and CEO of Shea’s Performing Arts Center, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “This transformative new partnership… is designed to invigorate and enliven Buffalo’s Theater District, elevating the theatrical landscape and making a significant economic impact.”
Higgins highlighted the economic benefits that increased activity at the 710 Theatre will bring to the area. “More activity, more pedestrian traffic… it’s good for the businesses,” he said, referencing the 109 bars, restaurants, and coffee shops that thrive around the Theater District. The announcement comes just weeks after a successful run of Hamilton, which achieved 88% capacity and generated $7 million in downtown economic impact.
MusicalFare’s Artistic and Executive Director, Randall Kramer, reflected on the theater’s 35-year history, which began in 1990 with small productions and has grown into an award-winning institution. “Those 35 years have prepared us for 2025 when MusicalFare will begin its residency here at Shea’s 710 Theatre,” Kramer noted. He emphasized that the move represents a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to elevate our productions, expand our scope, and reunite a vital piece of Buffalo’s Theater District.”
For Buffalo Rising readers, Kramer shared his personal excitement about the transition: “I’m excited to be part of the downtown core of theatres and all the opportunities that will bring. Although MusicalFare has loved its home in Amherst, I have always lived in the City. And as we start this new chapter, I’m excited to be able to walk and bike to work!”
MusicalFare’s new home at Shea’s 710 Theatre will feature an expanded performance schedule, with approximately 100 shows annually—more than doubling the venue’s current usage. The theater’s capacity will increase from 136 seats at Daemen University to 551 seats, offering greater accessibility and a richer cultural experience for audiences. Higgins added, “MusicalFare is not a stranger to this space… since Shea’s took over in 2012, they’ve delivered over 130 performances, bringing more than 30,000 patrons into downtown Buffalo.”
In addition to this increase in performances, the collaboration will explore potential renovations, such as a new exterior sign and an upgraded lobby. A $600,000 state grant initially earmarked for a different project may be redirected to support these enhancements. The partnership will also ensure that the 710 Theatre remains open to other local groups. “It was a priority early in the negotiation that we preserve our relationships with our other local theater companies,” Higgins reassured, emphasizing Shea’s ongoing commitment to the broader theater community.
Kramer also expressed gratitude to the Shea’s Board and highlighted the vision both organizations share for Buffalo’s cultural future. “Through this strategic partnership… we can bring something greater than the sum of our parts,” he said, envisioning a thriving, year-round theater district.
We will continue to envision a future where MusicalFare, Shea’s, and other theaters… create a vibrant centerpiece of cultural life.
Together, Shea’s and MusicalFare’s collaboration heralds a new era for Buffalo, promising not only artistic innovation but also a significant economic and cultural boon for the entire region.