The Stanley Performing Arts Center opened September 10, 1928 and has been the premier showplace for Central New York ever since.

Thomas Lamb, a prolific theater architect, designed this 2,945 seat movie palace for the Mastbaum chain of theaters. The theater was named for Stanley, one of the Mastbaum brothers.

The design of the theater is dubbed "Mexican baroque" because of its unique blend of styles. The terra cotta and tiled mosaic exterior shows the Mexican influence, while Hapsburg lions, Indian faces, and a multitude of angels and putti (cherubs) grace the lavish baroque "gold leaf" interior of the theater. The Moorish influence is apparent in the star-splashed ceiling and the twisted columns on each side of the stage. There is even an art-deco look to some of the drapery treatments in the organ lofts.

The Central New York Community Arts Council, Inc. purchased the Stanley in 1974. Over $4.5 million has been spent to date on its brilliant restoration.

Since its purchase, CNYCAC has upgraded all mechanical, electrical, and safety systems and is continuing to provide technical improvements to accommodate the many touring shows and artists that appear at the Stanley.

The seats have been restored and most of the interior has been refinished to its original condition. New carpeting has been installed that replicates the original pattern.

There are four major local presenters that use the Stanley: the Broadway Theatre League which brings in touring Broadway shows; the Munson-Williams-Proctor Institute Great Artists Series which features the best in opera, recital artists, and dance companies; the Utica Symphony Orchestra; and the Mohawk Valley Ballet.

Recent events at the Stanley include the Indigo Girls, "Jesus Christ Superstar," Collin Raye, Itzhak Perlman, the Canadian Brass, "Tommy," Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds, "The Spirit of the Dance," B.B. King, "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," and Sammy Kershaw.

The elegant Stanley lobbies are the site for many receptions and meetings throughout the year. It has also become a local tradition for wedding parties to have their photographs taken on the grand staircases in the lobby. (Legend has it that one staircase was designed to resemble the grand staircase on the Titanic ocean liner."