Paula Deen Coming to Shea's in Buffalo

WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. – Tops Friendly Markets and its long-standing partner, Smithfield, are proud to bring Paula Deen Live! to Buffalo, NY on April 20, 2011. Paula Deen will host a two-hour interactive cooking show, live on-stage at Shea’s Performing Arts Center.

From February 6 through March 5, Tops shoppers can register their BonusCards at www.topsmarkets.com, and every time they check out at any Tops store they’re automatically entered for a chance to win a Paula Deen Live! VIP package, including a meet-and-greet with Paula Deen, an autographed cookbook and two tickets to see Paula Deen Live! on April 20, 2011. Each time Tops shoppers purchase any Smithfield product using their registered Tops BonusCard, they are automatically given 10 extra chances to win.

“We’re very excited to be part of the team that’s bringing Paula Deen to Buffalo,” said Frank Curci, Tops’ president and CEO. “I’d like to thank our partners at Smithfield for presenting this opportunity to Tops, and for helping us offer Tops shoppers the unique opportunity to meet Paula personally.”

The two-hour show will be Paula Deen’s first appearance in Buffalo and is part of the successful restaurateur, best-selling cookbook author, Food Network superstar, and multi-media personality’s new touring production. She is known for being warm, engaging, charming and full of sage advice, tart observations, sweet recollections and spicy humor. And yes, she cooks, too.

Deen will be joined on-stage by her husband Michael Groover as they interact with audience members, answer questions, and entertain while preparing Deen’s famous southern, country cuisine.

“We’re so happy to partner with Tops for this event and with our spokesperson, Paula Deen,” said Dennis Pittman, Smithfield’s Director of Corporate Communications. “The show is sure to bring a little Southern flare to blustery Buffalo.”

Tickets will go on sale to the general public beginning on February 11. Available prices are $44.75 for reserved seating and $100.00 for VIP tickets that include an opportunity to meet Paula Deen before the show. Tickets may be purchased at Shea’s Box Office, 650 Main Street (Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-2), and participating Ticketmaster outlets, including Macy’s stores, by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.