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LGBTQ+ Film Festival SCENE returns to Manchester this August

Thursday, 9 July 2026 17:00

Manchester’s LGBTQIA+ Film and TV Festival returns from 20–27 August 2026 with its biggest programme yet.

SCENE Festival has unveiled its 2026 programme, bringing eight days of LGBTQIA+ film, TV, comedy, culture, parties and premieres to Manchester.

Now in its third year, the festival returns from Thursday 20 to Thursday 27 August as an official Manchester Village Pride Fringe partner.

This year's line-up includes appearances from Russell T Davies and Nicola Shindler, an in-conversation event with Heartstopper creator Alice Oseman, a behind-the-scenes look at Disney+’s Rivals, and a celebration of BBC’s I Kissed A Boy and I Kissed A Girl.

Film highlights include previews of Pedro Almodóvar’s Bitter Christmas, Jane Schoenbrun’s Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma, Gregg Araki’s I Want Your Sex and Manchester-made closing night film Chatlines. The programme also features documentaries, short film showcases, outdoor screenings, live comedy, exhibitions and free events across the city.

Gary James Williams, Head of Events at CityCo, said: "We're thrilled that SCENE is back for a third edition. This year's programme is our biggest and most ambitious yet, from Almodóvar to Absolutely Fabulous, Barbara Hammer to I Kissed A Girl – there's something for everyone."

Tickets start from £5, with many events free. Profits from ticket sales and booking fees will be donated to Manchester Village Pride LGBTQ+ charities.

For the full programme and tickets, visit scenefestival.com.