The Tony-nominated musical ‘Schmigadoon!’ is set to launch its national tour from Baltimore’s Hippodrome Theatre in September 2027. This decision highlights Baltimore’s growing reputation as a starting point for major theatrical productions, thanks in part to Maryland’s Theatrical Production Tax Credit program.
Baltimore’s Role in Theatrical Productions
Over recent years, the Hippodrome Theatre has become a favored venue for launching national tours. Productions such as ‘The Wiz,’ ‘& Juliet,’ and ‘Life of Pi’ have all begun their tours in Baltimore, benefiting from the tax incentives provided by the state. This program, renewed by the Maryland General Assembly, aims to attract more creative talent to Maryland, boosting the local economy as casts and crews spend time and money in the area.
Ron Legler, president of the France Merrick Performing Arts Center, has been instrumental in advocating for these incentives. State Sen. Guy Guzzone, who sponsored the tax credit legislation, noted that Baltimore was historically a major tryout city for Broadway shows, and the new incentives aim to revive that status.
About ‘Schmigadoon!’
‘Schmigadoon!’ opened on Broadway in April 2026 and has been nominated for 12 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The story follows two people who stumble into a magical town where life is a musical, and they must find true love to escape. The Broadway production has already won several awards, including the Outer Critics Circle Awards and Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding New Musical.
In addition to the national tour, Theatrical Rights Worldwide has acquired the stage licensing rights to ‘Schmigadoon!’ This agreement will allow for productions in over 50 countries, with North American licensing extending to professional, regional, amateur, community, and school productions.
The cast and additional cities for the ‘Schmigadoon!’ tour will be announced at a later date, but the launch in Baltimore underscores the city’s importance in the theatrical world.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
