Making a Dramatic Difference

The Hippodrome Foundation (HFI) is dedicated to introducing Maryland students and community members to the arts and the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center through free outreach and education programs.

Help Our Cause

Programs that Inspire

Each year, thousands of people get to explore and express their creativity in HFI’s educational programs, thanks to our generous patrons and the Baltimore community.

Explore Our Programs

The Latest from HFI

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Join HFI on Instagram

HFI is finally stepping into the Instagram spotlight, and we are thrilled to be here!

Young Audience Members for a Special Showing of “Pete the Cat” in the new M&T Bank Exchange!

HFI was delighted to host some of our youngest audience members.

HFI's In-School Literacy Program

Spring 2024 Book Program—“Bringing Tales to Life” with Peter Pan the Musical

HFI Career Pathways Program: Costume Designer

Mamma Mia!: Inspiring the Next Generation of Costume Designers

Spectacular Spaces

With over 160,000 square feet of space, the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center is home to the historic Hippodrome Theatre and the state-of-the-art M&T Bank Exchange, which millions of patrons have enjoyed visiting since 2004.

See Our Venues

Since the Grand Opening of the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center in 2004, the Hippodrome Foundation has provided free outreach and education programs related to performing arts to more than 90,000 Maryland students who might not otherwise have had the opportunity. Year-round programs use National Touring Broadway to inspire and help students understand that world class performing arts should, and can, be a part of their lives. The Hippodrome Foundation’s free summer camps, career workshops, literacy programs, dress rehearsals and so much more are making a difference. Thank you to the many supporters who make our programs possible.

Wally Pinkard

Chairman, Hippodrome Foundation