Not many people see off-off-Broadway productions these days, but the Studio Arena Theatre may be one step closer to rescue. According to The Buffalo News the Theatre is undergoing negotiations regarding a merger with local theater powerhouse Shea's Performing Arts Center, following budget cuts. If everyone can reach agreement, we all might get to have our popcorn and eat it, too.
Being the second largest city in New York, Buffalo has a thriving art scene, as evidenced by the annual Allentown Art Festival and free Fridays at the Albright Knox. A Buffalonian haven for theater geeks, the Studio Arena Theatre offers summer acting classes and showcases off-Broadway productions such as the recent Batboy: The Musical. This is a part of the city's history and culture that we don't deserve to lose.
Not too long ago, Shea's was the one struggling financially, in need of renovations to restore it to its former glory. It would have been turned into a parking lot if it hadn't been put on the list of historical sites in Buffalo and tirelessly renovated by volunteers.
It is regrettable that an independent theater that has survived all these years must lose some of its independence. But since Shea's and Studio have similar goals, this merger could be the start of a beautiful friendship.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
