History of the Buffalo State Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall
When the State Teachers College at Buffalo (now SUNY Buffalo State University) moved to its new five building Elmwood Avenue campus in 1931, its centerpiece was Rockwell Hall. Named for President Harry W. Rockwell, who led the college from 1919 to 1951, the building originally housed administrative offices, the campus library, and the college auditorium.
Today, Rockwell Hall remains the heart of the Buffalo State campus. It is home to the School of Arts and Sciences, the Departments of Art Conservation and Music, academic classrooms, and the Buffalo State Performing Arts Center.
The Rockwell Renaissance
Calls for renovation of Rockwell Hall began even before a 1970 fire forced the closure of its auditorium. In 1983, a grassroots group called the “Friends of Rockwell Hall” mobilized public support to save the deteriorating structure. Their successful letter-writing campaign to state officials, bolstered by editorial support from The Buffalo News, helped secure state funding for a major renovation effort.
In September 1984, the “Rockwell Renaissance” began symbolically when Buffalo State President D. Bruce Johnstone, Assemblyman William B. Hoyt, and State Senator Anthony B. Masiello wielded sledgehammers to begin demolition on the old auditorium wall.
The ambitious three year restoration completely transformed the space. The renovation included a rebuilt stagehouse, green room, four dressing rooms, sloped audience seating, accessible entrances, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, an orchestra pit, and a retractable orchestra shell.
Reopening and Continued Investment
The newly revitalized Performing Arts Center reopened in October 1987 with a celebratory Festival of Five. The event featured classical, chamber, and popular music, as well as dance and theater productions.
In 2004, the facility underwent a $1.2 million technical upgrade. This phase included new sound and lighting systems, demolition and replacement of the rigging system and stage floor, and installation of new stage curtains, acoustic draperies, and an orchestral shell. The PAC reopened in March 2005 with a sold out performance by jazz saxophonist David Sanborn.
Another major renovation occurred in 2019, focusing on the theater’s interior and patron experience. Seating was refurbished, with new carpeting, paint, and house lighting enhancing the auditorium. The Box Office was also modernized with increased visibility, a second service window, and full ADA compliance for both patrons and staff.
A Cultural Anchor in Western New York
In recent years, the PAC stage has hosted a wide range of renowned performers and public figures, including David Sedaris, Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass, Phil Rosenthal, The Goo Goo Dolls, Pete Davidson, Marcus Miller, Spyro Gyra, and Average White Band, among many others.
The Buffalo State Performing Arts Center continues to serve as a cornerstone of campus life and a vital contributor to the cultural vibrancy of Western New York. It presents an eclectic mix of concerts, lectures, theatrical performances, and special events, enriching both the University community and the wider region.
