The shows will go on.

In recent years, Baltimore’s Hippodrome Theatre has launched national tours of Broadway productions, from “The Wiz” to “The Phantom of the Opera.” A state tax credit played a major reason why.

The trend is now positioned to continue: The Maryland Theatrical Tax Credit Program was extended through June 2032, per recently approved state legislation. It was set to expire next year.

“By collaborating with our local leaders on the tax credit program, we’re ensuring Baltimore remains a critical stop in the national Broadway pipeline,” Ron Legler, president of the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, which operates the Hippodrome and M&T Bank Exchange, said in a statement.

The program, started in 2022, will continue to offer up to a $2 million tax credit per production to eligible state theaters. The credit helps cover costs for set design, wardrobe, lodging and other components needed to execute large-scale plays.

The Hippodrome has been the credit’s biggest beneficiary because it’s part of Broadway Across America’s network of national venues. The touring production company brings Broadway shows to more than 45 regions in the country.

Through 2023 and 2024, Broadway Across America shows in Baltimore generated $40.2 million in economic activity, according to a press release.

Legler told The Banner last year that the tax credit led to “almost instant success” in 2023 with “The Wiz,” a fitting debut since the reimagined “Wizard of Oz” play had its world premiere in October 1974 at the Morris A. Mechanic Theatre on Charles Street.

Other popular productions followed 2023 run of “The Wiz,” launching their U.S. tours at the Hippodrome, including “The Great Gatsby,” “Life of Pi” and “Water for Elephants.” More national tours will soon debut there, such as six-time Tony Award winner “Maybe Happy Ending” in September and “Heathers: The Musical” in May 2027.

In 2025, Legler commended the state for being “so easy to work with” on establishing the tax credit program. He was optimistic at the time of an extension getting passed due to the program’s track record.

“We brought millions of dollars to the state of Maryland that would’ve gone to another city,” he said.