Film Spirit Awards and Mid-Week Comedy in Minneapolis Today
Film Independent Spirit Awards at the Walker Art Center
Cinema enthusiasts have a major reason to visit the Walker Art Center today, as Wednesday, January 21, marks the beginning of the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards screening series. This prestigious event, running through the end of the month, showcases the best in independent filmmaking. Attendees can catch screenings of nominated feature films and shorts throughout the day and evening. It is a unique opportunity to see cutting-edge cinema before the official awards ceremony. The screenings take place in the Walker’s state-of-the-art cinema facilities, providing an intimate look at the stories and creators currently shaping the indie film landscape.
Stand-Up Comedy with Andy Woodhull
For those looking for a mid-week laugh, the Acme Comedy Company in the North Loop is hosting stand-up comedian Andy Woodhull tonight. Known for his sharp observational humor and relatable stories about family life and marriage, Woodhull has appeared on various late-night talk shows and has several highly-rated comedy specials. The show is scheduled for 8:00 PM, making it the perfect post-dinner entertainment. Acme remains one of the city's premier venues for comedy, offering an intimate basement setting where every seat feels close to the stage.
Theatrical Magic at the Guthrie: Somewhere
The Guthrie Theater continues its winter season today with performances of "Somewhere" by Tony Award-winning playwright Matthew Lopez. Set in 1959, this dance-filled drama follows the Candelaria family as they dream of success in show business while the film version of West Side Story is being filmed in their neighborhood. It is a poignant exploration of ambition, family bonds, and the changing landscape of New York City. The production is staged at the McGuire Proscenium Stage and offers both matinee and evening options for theatergoers seeking high-quality drama on a Wednesday.
Museum Highlights and Family Fun
Earlier in the day, families and art lovers have several curated options. The Minnesota Transportation Museum is hosting its weekly "Tots and Trains" event from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, offering a hands-on experience for children to explore historic railcars and play with train sets. For those preferring visual arts, the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is open today from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can explore the newly opened exhibition, "Built to Last: The Shogren-Meyer Collection of American Art," which features a significant collection of 20th-century works focusing on the American experience.