Performing Arts -- Shea's Performing Arts Center, 646 Main St. (tel. 716/852-5000), is a gorgeous former movie palace dating from 1926 and built in the style of a European opera house. It now hosts touring shows, concerts, opera, and dance performances. The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra performs at the acoustically perfect Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle (tel. 800/699-3168 or 716/885-5000), most every week from October to the end of July. For theater, head to Studio Arena, 710 Main St. (tel. 800/77-STAGE or 716/856-5650), one of the finest regional theaters in the country. Each season (Sept-Apr) features several productions.
Nightclubs & Live Music -- The bar scene is centered around two streets: The most happening is Chippewa Street, downtown, where you'll find loud bars pouring local brew Genesee and others. Try the down-home Big Shotz, 45 W. Chippewa St. (tel. 716/852-7230), and the more upscale La Luna, 52 W. Chippewa St. (tel. 716/855-1292). Crocodile Bar, 88 Chippewa St. (tel. 716/853-CROC), is a favorite with the well-dressed, over-25 crowd, due partly to its extensive martini menu. Allen Street is a bit quieter, but you can also find some good bars like Gabriels Gate, 145 Allen St. (tel. 716/886-0602), and Colter Bay, at Delaware and Allen (tel. 716/882-1330). This is also where you'll find Buffalo's gay scene, in bars like Cathode Ray, 26 Allen St. (tel. 716/884-3615). Another good bet for gays: Marcella Show Club, 622 Main St. (tel. 716/847-6850), which features drag and "Boy-lesque" shows along with DJs spinning tunes till the wee hours. For live music, join the slightly older set at the Tralf, 622 Main St. (tel. 716/854-3068), which hosts all sorts of music, comedy, and theater performances. Many acts are local, but sometimes you'll get a national name, like Roomful of Blues or Lisa Loeb, or touring shows, like Shear Madness. The Lafayette Tap Room, 391 Washington St. (tel. 716/854-2466), is committed to the blues and offers a full schedule of local and national acts in their small space.
