Investigative Post to host talk on future of key Buffalo cultural zone

By Mandy Myers

A panel of arts, business and civic leaders will gather Tuesday (March 24) to discuss the future of Buffalo’s Theatre District, an area that has long been central to the city’s cultural identity but continues to face challenges. 

Hosted by Investigative Post, the discussion will be moderated by Jim Heaney, editor of the journalism nonprofit. It is expected to bring together a range of perspectives on how to revitalize the downtown district.

The panel includes Brian Higgins, president and CEO of Shea’s Performing Arts Center; Donny Kutzbach, co-owner of Town Ballroom; Kristin Bentley, executive director of Second Generation Theatre; Randall Kramer, executive director of MusicalFare; and John Cimperman, owner of 42 North Brewing.

Together, the group represents key pieces of the district’s ecosystem, from theaters and music venues to restaurants and nightlife. 

Heaney said the goal is to encourage a broader conversation about the district’s future. 

“What we hope to accomplish with this event is to advance the discussion about how to bring more life,” he said. “I expect a very lively, informative discussion that will hopefully help move things forward.”

An active district – at times

While the Theatre District remains a hub for performances, activity is often limited to nights when major shows are scheduled. 

“On nights when there’s something going on, things are happening,” Heaney said. “But when the theatres are dark – and during the summer, when they’re mostly dark – the district is empty.”

That inconsistency has made it difficult for surrounding businesses to maintain steady traffic, particularly outside peak performance hours. 

The conversation is expected to focus on how to make the district more active throughout the day and year, not just during performances. 

Heaney pointed to several factors, including the need for stronger marketing, expanded programming and improvements to the physical environment. 

“There are fewer people downtown during the day,” he said, noting a reduced workforce following the pandemic. “You have fewer people to hang around after work, catch a show, have a meal or grab a drink.”

Looking for new ideas

Panelists are also expected to discuss how the district can evolve beyond its traditional identity. 

“There’s a general thought that it needs to be not just a theatre district, but a theatre and entertainment district,” Heaney said. 

Ideas such as diversifying events, filling vacant storefronts and increasing residential development in and around downtown are likely to be part of the discussion. 

“There needs to be more of a residential population,” Heaney said, pointing to the importance of having people who live nearby and can regularly support local businesses. 

With a mix of industry leaders and community voices, organizers hope the panel will generate ideas and momentum for change. 

The discussion comes at a time when the Theatre District is navigating post-pandemic realities while searching for ways to remain a vibrant destination year-round. 

Event Details

The discussion will take place at 7 p.m. at Shea’s Smith Theatre, 658 Main St., in downtown Buffalo. Tickets are $10 and available for purchase online or at the door. 

Organizers say audience participation will be encouraged, with opportunities for attendees to ask questions and contribute to the conversation about the district’s future.

Tickets are available HERE.

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Mandy Myers is a senior at SUNY Fredonia and an intern for The Buffalo Hive.