SCENE is Manchester’s LGBTQ+ film and television festival, returning from 20–27 August 2026 with a city-wide programme of screenings, live events, panel discussions and special appearances. Taking place alongside Manchester Pride, the festival celebrates LGBTQ+ stories, talent and representation across film, television and popular culture.
The 2026 programme features more than 60 events across venues including Aviva Studios, HOME, New Century Hall, Campfield and First Street. Highlights range from celebrations of major television shows including The Traitors, Heartstopper, It’s a Sin and Rivals to independent and international cinema, short films, documentaries, comedy and outdoor screenings.
SCENE also brings together actors, writers, filmmakers, producers and performers for Q&As and behind-the-scenes discussions, while partnerships with organisations including the Iris Prize and TITE showcase emerging LGBTQ+ filmmaking. The festival concludes with its official Closing Party at Campfield.
The Traitors Reunion
BBC’s The Traitors reunited with former players and host Scott Bryan.
Russell T Davies’ Tip Toe Episode Screening and Panel
Episode 5 of Tip Toe screened with a panel featuring creator Russell T Davies.
Underground Queer Cinema Spotlight at SCENE with Dublin’s TITE Festival
Dublin’s TITE festival brings trans short films to Manchester’s SCENE venue.
Ab Fab A-Thon Celebration with Anna Phylactic and Banksie
Anna Phylactic and Banksie bring Eddie and Patsy to life in an Absolutely Fabulous.
Iris Prize Reveals Best British Shorts
The Iris Prize announced its Best British Shorts nominees live at SCENE festival.
Kiss & Tell Unites BBC Dating Show Contestants
Contestants from I Kissed a Boy / Girl Tell Their Story
Celebrating Dorothy Gale’s Enduring Cultural Legacy
An event at Cruz 101 explored Dorothy Gale’s impact on queer film and culture.
Celebrating Five Years of Russell T Davies’ It’s a Sin
Russell T Davies, producers and cast and a reflect on It’s a Sin’s impact.
Heartstopper Forever: Alice Oseman Charts a Journey from Webcomic to Netflix Phenomenon
Alice Oseman reflects on Heartstopper’s rise from webcomic to global Netflix hit.