Festival of Dissent 2026

Taking over the Gregson from 11am-10pm, and spilling out beyond its walls, the festival brings together artists, filmmakers, musicians, academics and local people for a playful day of surprising creative experiences, conversations and festivities.

Come curious. Leave a little changed. 

SCHEDULE FOR A DAY OF FREE EVENTS 

Some events require booking others are drop ins. There are limited places on bookable events so if you are no longer able to make it please let us know!

View the detailed full PROGRAMME OF EVENTS online here, to book your tickets.

The Lightbulb Moment 11am–5pm (last showing begins 4.15pm) 

You are invited by renowned theatre company Proto-Type to put on headphones and peer into a miniature apartment building, where the lives of its residents quietly intertwine. Through animation and sound, The Lightbulb Moment explores the connections between people, systems and the choices we make, inviting us to consider how even the smallest actions can shape the world around us. Drop in, booking not required.

The Sculpture Kit 11am-1pm 

Join artist Ellie Barrett to transform everyday materials into unexpected sculptures. Some sculptures will become part of the festival itself! For all ages, families welcome. Book here.

This Is Not a Cinema 11am-5pm 

Not every film belongs in a cinema. Not every cinema behaves like one. Curated by Adam York Gregory and Gillian Jane Lees, this rolling programme brings together locally made films that challenge expectations, expand our idea of cinema and celebrate stories that rarely make it to the big screen. Drop in, booking not required.

What if Dissent Isn't What We Think It Is? 11am-12pm and 2pm-6pm 

What if dissent isn't what you think it is? Through thoughtful prompts, unexpected objects and shared conversation, you'll turn the idea over together. Curiosity is all you need to bring. Join us in the Cafe/Bar. Drop in, booking not required.

Agency of Small Acts 11am–5pm 

A quiet department has opened for one day only. Step inside and become an Agent. You'll be issued with a confidential mission. Some missions ask you to notice differently. Others invite small acts of kindness or gentle mischief. Drop in, booking not required.

The Living Room 11am–6pm 

Step into Queer by Gum's ‘Living Room’ for a quieter moment in the day. Whether you'd like to make something, have a chat, pause for a while, or simply recharge. Drop in, booking not required.

Walk. Wonder. Walk Again.11.30am Gentle Walk, 2pm Explorer Walk, 4pm Explorer Walk 

Join artist Jessica Emsley on a gentle walking workshop exploring Miss Whalley's Field through close observation, reflection and simple acts of making. Book here. No Such Thing 12pm, 12.45pm and 1.30pm When was the last time you had a conversation with a stranger? Join one of our hosts for a free lunch in the Cafe and explore a menu of questions about everyday life, the world around us, and the things that matter. Very limited places. Book here.

In My Own Words 1.30pm–4pm 

Create a personal placard and explore what you believe, question or care about through conversation, writing and making. Your placard will be photographed as part of a growing artwork created throughout the festival. Book here.

What Happens If 2pm–6pm 

Join artists and academics who have been working over the summer to develop questions for you to encounter. What happens if curiosity becomes something you can step into? Drop in, booking not required.

A Party of Dissent! 7pm–10pm 

A DJ, dancing, unexpected moments, the odd interruption and a few things we're not quite ready to reveal. Wear orange, or pick up an orange ribbon when you arrive! Drop in, booking not required.

Additional fun throughout the day...

Pass It On 

As you explore the Gregson, you may come across unexpected traces of other people's stories, thoughts and reflections, quietly woven into the building in surprising ways. Some are easy to spot. Others are waiting to be discovered.

Keep an eye (and an ear) out... From 2pm 

Not everything appears in the programme. Throughout the day you'll encounter spontaneous interventions by musician Loz Kaye. You might even find yourself in them!

View the PROGRAMME OF EVENTS online to book your tickets .