The building was modeled after the Concertgebouw concert hall in Amsterdam, and was primarily used for concerts. From 1950, it was the home of the Baltimore Opera Company, and the Lyric Opera Baltimore Company since 2011. Aside from concerts and opera events, various other types of shows and events were presented at the Lyric, including sporting events. However from 1980-1982, the venue underwent major renovations and was transformed into an opera house.

The France-Merrick Performing Arts Center is the historic Hippodrome Theatre reborn after renovations in 2004. Reinvigorated as the hub of the Bromo Tower Arts and Entertainment district, this downtown landmark sits at the heart of the arts neighborhood, a shining beacon of community outreach and cultural development. In partnership with the non-profit Hippodrome Foundation, the center facilitates educational programs for Baltimore's youth covering all aspects of the arts and theatre as well as the area's vibrant history.