Utah Community Programming

Utah Community

Program

As a mission-driven nonprofit arts organization that’s rooted in Utah, the Sundance Institute hosts local events and programs year-round that aim to: 

  • Connect local audiences to the Sundance Film Festival 
  • Introduce local audiences to independent film and immersive media.
  • Explore social issues and stories from around the globe.
  • Unite audiences and cultures through the power of storytelling.
  • Share the filmmaker’s journey with audiences and emerging filmmakers, including students.

January 12, 2026: Community Team Update

We’re thrilled to bring back Local Lens, a selection of free screenings exclusively for Utah residents during the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. This year, we’re offering four in-person screenings and a choice of one online screening out of four online options for locals.

2026 Sundance Film Festival Local Lens Program

Claiming your spot is simple: Just add the screening to your cart when registration opens on January 14, and check out like you would with any Single Film Ticket. No payment needed — just pick your film and get ready to join us.

Passes will not be scanned at this screening. Passholders will need to reserve a ticket if they wish to attend any Local Lens screenings.

In-Person Screenings

Tuner 
Wednesday, January 28 | 6 p.m.
The Ray Theater, Park City

Jane Elliott Against the World
Thursday, January 29 | 1 p.m.
Rose Wagner Center, Salt Lake City

TBA LOCAL LENS SCREENING 3
Sunday, February 1 | 2:30 p.m.
The Ray Theater, Park City

TBA LOCAL LENS SCREENING 4
Sunday, February 1 | 2:30 p.m. 
Rose Wagner Center, Salt Lake City

All films will be presented with open caption.

Online Screening Access

Not hitting the Fest in person? No problem! You can still get in on the action from home. Choose one film from the curated online selection below and stream it on us. 

Fill out this form to receive a promo code, valid for one free screening of your choice between January 29 and February 1, while spots last.

Everybody to Kenmure Street

Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!

The Incomer

Seized

Sundance Film Festival: Local Lens

Summer screenings of past Festival favorites.

Community Access to the Sundance Film Festival

Opportunities for local nonprofits and community organizations.

Festival Screenings for Students

Inspiring the Next Generation of Storytellers within grades 9–12.

Here’s what some Utah locals have to say about past events.

Sundance Events for Local Filmmakers

Sundance Events for Local Filmmakers

Filmmaking Deep Dive: Honing Your Pitch with Industry Insights

Including an interactive speed pitching session, an industry best practices, and an AMA with Festival programmers. In-person, Salt Lake City, Fri. July 28, 10 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.

Explore Deadlines for Labs, Fellowships, Grants, Programs

Online Learning
Experiences for creators: registration and applications @ Sundance Collab

Local Happenings

Check out events led by our partners and film allies in Salt Lake and Summit County.

You can find more events at Nowplayingutah.com

2021_Keri Farewell - Park City_Erika Cespedes_0232

Arts & Culture

Upcoming Community Events

May

Kilby Block Party, May 15-18, Salt Lake City 

Muslim Heritage Festival May 17, Utah Cultural Celebration Center, West Valley

Living Traditions Festival, May 16-18, Salt Lake City

The 22nd Mulitcultural Ethnic Dance Festival, May 31, Salt Lake City

2019_Talent Forum Keynote_Jemal Countess_1366

Independent Film

Davey Foundation: Grants

Park City Film Series, Park City

Park City Institute, Park City

Park City Song Summit, Park City

Salt Lake Film Society Film Screenings, Salt Lake

Spyhop Productions, Salt Lake

Utah Documentary Association: Local resources

Utah Film Center Screenings and Events, Salt Lake

Utah Film Commission: Local resources

Utah Film Festival: Film classes and other activities for local filmmakers

Sundance Institute’s Utah Community Programs are supported by:

Host State
Community Supporters
Principal Sponsor
Major Sponsors
Official Providers
Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre