Broadway Hits and Steamboat Stories: What's On in Memphis Today

Midweek Highlights in the Bluff City
Happy Wednesday, Memphis! Despite the lingering winter chill, the city’s cultural scene is in full swing today, January 28, 2026. From the bright lights of Broadway to the historical depths of the Mississippi River, there is no shortage of ways to spend your Wednesday. Here is your curated guide to the best events happening across the city today.
A Night of Razzle Dazzle at the Orpheum
The crown jewel of today’s schedule is the continuing run of the legendary musical Chicago at the historic Orpheum Theatre. As part of the Broadway in Memphis series, this production brings the glamour and intrigue of the 1920s to the local stage. Known for its iconic choreography and show-stopping numbers like "All That Jazz," the performance offers a sophisticated midweek escape for theater lovers. Shows typically begin in the evening, making it a perfect follow-up to a dinner downtown.
Exploration and Science at MoSH
For those seeking daytime enrichment, the Memphis Museum of Science and History (MoSH) at the Pink Palace has a packed itinerary. Visitors can explore two featured exhibitions today from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM:
- Last Whistle: Steamboat Stories of Memphis – An evocative look at the maritime history and personal narratives that defined the city's relationship with the river.
- FOOD: Science, Culture and Cuisine – A multi-sensory exhibition exploring the evolution of how we eat and the science behind our regional flavors.
Additionally, the CTI 3D Giant Theater is hosting specialized screenings today, including Apollo 11: First Steps Edition at 1:00 PM and Walking with Dinosaurs: Prehistoric Planet at 2:00 PM. If you prefer the stars, the Autozone Dome Planetarium is showing The Sun: Our Living Star at 1:00 PM.
Live Music and Community Meetups
Memphis wouldn't be itself without live music. Tonight, the venue Growlers will host the band Sunweight starting at 5:00 PM, offering a great spot for indie music fans. Over at Neil's Music Room, local favorites Elmo & the Shades featuring Eddie Harrison will take the stage at 7:00 PM for a night of soul and blues.
For those looking to socialize, the Memphis Shy Guys are hosting a Trivia Night at 7:00 PM, providing a relaxed environment for community connection. If you prefer a bit of fresh air, the Wednesday Walks group meets at Overton Park at 4:00 PM for their weekly stroll through the park's scenic trails.
Family Activities
Parents with young children can start their day at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library for Toddler Storytime from 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM. It is a fantastic free resource for early literacy and social play. Given the recent winter weather reports in the area, we recommend checking with specific venues for any last-minute scheduling changes before you head out.