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.
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
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
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
Highlights from our Programs
Fun times had by all!








