The electrifying musical “Dreamgirls” will kick off the Frey Electric 2025-26 Season at Shea’s 710 Theatre. Inspired by Motown and R&B legends of the 1960s and ’70s, the tale of three young Black women pursuing their musical ambitions made history on Broadway and continues to dazzle audiences around the world.
A collaboration with AnsariSaxon Productions is bringing “Dreamgirls” to the stage Sept. 10 through 28.
“We’re very, very excited about that,” says Brian Higgins, president and CEO of Shea’s Performing Arts Center. “We’re fortunate in Buffalo to have a rich offering of musical theater by groups that live here and work here.”
He described “Dreamgirls” as a celebration of Black womanhood, excellence and the pursuit of the American Dream.
“We’re proud to share this iconic production and invite audiences to experience this powerful and uplifting journey,” Higgins says.
The show will be the first in a series of artistic partnerships coming to the newly renovated space. The renovations will facilitate improved accessibility around the theatre campus.
“We’re doing $5 million of improvements, which started in March of this year and will be completed by the start of ‘Dreamgirls,’” explains Higgins. “There’s a spectacular new lounge and cabaret space, updated restrooms, box office and concessions, and a multi-purpose room for arts education. We’ll have a sensory room to ensure that the theatre experience is as inclusive as we can make it.”
The Frey Electric Season continues with a fan-favorite jukebox musical.
Comedy, romance and chart-topping pop hits will come together in “Mamma Mia!” from Jan. 15-Feb. 1. Packed with catchy ABBA songs, this show is produced by Second Generation Theatre and Shea’s Performing Arts Center. The frothy, fun tale follows a bride-to-be as she digs into her mother’s past passions and uncovers more than expected.
Finally, “A Few Good Men” will run from June 11-28. Produced by Road Less Traveled Productions and Shea’s Performing Arts Center, the gripping courtroom drama by Aaron Sorkin centers on the trial of two U.S. Marines charged in the death of a comrade.
“It’s about duty, it’s about citizenship, it’s about honor,” says Higgins. “Those themes are very relevant to the challenges we face every day as citizens.”
That’s not all this location is serving up this year. MusicalFare Theatre’s inaugural season at Shea’s 710 Theatre will begin with “Come From Away” on stage from Oct. 23-Nov. 9. The musical recounts the true story of a small Canadian community that welcomed nearly 7,000 stranded airline passengers after the 9/11 attacks.
MusicalFare’s season of Broadway favorites also includes “White Christmas” (Dec. 4-21), “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” (Feb. 19-March 8), “Jesus Christ Superstar” (April 2-19) and “Hairspray” (May 7-24).
Season subscription packages for both the Frey Electric 2025-26 Season and the MusicalFare season of musicals are available online or by visiting the box office. Groups of 10+ can call 716-829-1153.
