Broadway Legends and Candlelight Serenades: What’s On in Columbus Today

A Spectacular Thursday in the Arch City

Welcome to your columbus.news daily guide for Thursday, January 29, 2026. If you are looking to escape the winter chill, our city is offering a vibrant mix of world-class theater, intimate jazz performances, and unique community gatherings. From the historic stages of the Theater District to the modern screens of the University District, there is something for every culture seeker today. The city is bustling with energy as major conferences and touring productions converge on our downtown venues.

Broadway and Dramatic Arts

Columbus is currently hosting two major theatrical productions that are not to be missed. Tonight at the Ohio Theatre, the legendary production of Les Misérables continues its triumphant run. This sweeping epic of passion and redemption, produced by Cameron Mackintosh, brings the classic songs of Victor Hugo's world to life with a 7:30 PM performance. For those looking for a different kind of emotional journey, the Short North Stage at the Garden Theater is presenting Come From Away. This hit musical tells the incredible true story of the 7,000 air travelers stranded in Newfoundland following the events of 9/11, celebrating human endurance and compassion. The performance begins at 7:00 PM.

Live Music and Unique Experiences

For music lovers, the evening options are remarkably diverse. At the Lincoln Theatre, the Jazz Arts Group presents the George Delancey Trio in a special program titled "Roy Brown at 100." Starting at 8:00 PM, this performance celebrates the centennial of the influential blues and R&B singer who helped bridge the gap between swing and rock and roll. If you prefer a more atmospheric setting, the Columbus Museum of Art is hosting Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton. This stunning event features a talented string ensemble performing modern hits from the hit Netflix series in a room illuminated by thousands of candles, providing a truly magical sensory experience.

Community and Cinema Highlights

• Social Media Club Coffee Meet-Up: Connect with local digital professionals and creatives at Bada Bean Bada Booze starting at 12:00 PM for an informal networking session.
• OMEA Professional Development Conference: The Greater Columbus Convention Center is the hub for music education today as the 2026 OMEA conference begins. Keep an eye out for public-facing student ensemble performances occurring throughout the convention spaces.
• Gateway Film Center: Our premier independent cinema is featuring a curated schedule today, including screenings of the new 2026 releases Send Help and the atmospheric thriller Iron Lung.
• Comedy at Easton: If you need a laugh, comedian Crystal Denha takes the stage at the Funny Bone Comedy Club at 7:00 PM for a night of stand-up.

Whether you are heading to the Short North for a pre-show dinner or meeting colleagues for a mid-day networking coffee, today proves that Columbus remains the cultural heart of the Midwest, offering plenty of reasons to get out and explore the city.