Festival of Dissent, in partnership with the Gregson Community & Arts Centre, is a day of unexpected encounters for all ages, exploring what happens when we question assumptions, imagine alternatives and choose to do things differently.
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
(find full descriptions of each activity here)
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!
The Lightbulb Moment
11am–5pm
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.
The Sculpture Kit
11am-1pm
Join artist Ellie Barratt to transform everyday materials into unexpected sculptures. Some sculptures will become part of the festival itself! 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.
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.
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.
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.
Walk. Wonder. Walk Again.
11.30am Accessible 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
Join artist Claire Dean to create a placard that's genuinely yours and explore what you believe, question or care about through conversation, writing and making. Book here.
What Happens If
2pm–6pm
What happens if curiosity becomes something you can step into? Spend time with three encounters that have grown from a summer of questions, conversations, and unexpected discoveries.
A Party of Dissent!
7pm–11pm
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!
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!
Access
Please find access information for the venue here.
