Broadway shows are picking Baltimore to launch national tours. Here’s why.

https://www.thebanner.com/culture/theater/baltimore-national-plays-tours-water-for-elephants-phantom-opera-gatsby-I4ACOFDFY5HTJCB3BPGRIIIC3E/

Maryland’s Theatrical Production Tax Credit, which can earn up to $2 million back to a single production — no small amount in the expensive, labor-filled world of theater production.

Before then, the Hippodrome will welcome more national tour launches like “The Phantom of the Opera” in November and “The Great Gatsby” in January, continuing a trend that has helped make Baltimore an East Coast destination for theater enthusiasts, Legler said.

 

I know NY state has similar things. Many tours launch from Buffalo too. I believe Rhode Island has something too, as Providence has launched a lot too.

I did undergrad in Baltimore and went to a lot of shows at the Hippodrome. It's a beautifully restored theater. Glad to hear that it's become a notable launching point for national tours. 

Between the Hippodrome, Center Stage and the Arena Players, Baltimore has a thriving theater scene that's flown under the radar for a while now.

Updated On: 10/6/25 at 07:33 PM