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.
27 August 2026
The Liberation Pride Pageant Crowns New POC Drag Superstar
Rising People of Colour drag artists shine at exclusive Liberation Pride event.
Channel 4 Revives First for Funny at SCENE Festival
First for Funny returns, spotlighting emerging comedy talent at Aviva Studios.
SCENE Festival's Closing Party Concludes Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Celebration
SCENE’s vibrant Closing Party ends eight days of LGBTQ+ film, talks and culture.
25 August 2026
Rivals: Behind the Drama Brings Jilly Cooper’s Novels to Life
Cast and producer discuss the making of Disney+ adaptation at HOME.
24 August 2026
Elliot Tuttle’s Blue Film Debuts with Kieron Moore Q&A
Blue Film’s provocative debut explores dark ties, with actor Q&A at HOME.
23 August 2026
Devdas Enlivens First Street with Dance and Film Partnership
Outdoor screening of Devdas blends film and live dance on First Street.
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.
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.
Celebrating Dorothy Gale’s Enduring Cultural Legacy
An event at Cruz 101 explored Dorothy Gale’s impact on queer film and culture.
22 August 2026
Kiss & Tell Unites BBC Dating Show Contestants
Contestants from I Kissed a Boy / Girl Tell Their Story
Iris Prize Reveals Best British Shorts
The Iris Prize announced its Best British Shorts nominees live at SCENE festival.
Ab Fab A-Thon Celebration with Anna Phylactic and Banksie
Anna Phylactic and Banksie bring Eddie and Patsy to life in an Absolutely Fabulous.