Join us for an evening of North African queer excellence to celebrate Pride in Manchester — come as you are, speak your own language
Celebrate Pride this summer with an evening of films, talks and music spotlighting queer North African stories – curated by actor and filmmaker Adam Ali.
Kickstart the night by making new connections with Queer Speed Friending hosted by Rendezvous – celebrating connection in all forms, whether romantic or platonic. Rotate through a series of short and engaging chats and see where the evening takes you…
Throughout the evening on loop, enjoy a screening of short films – BABA (dir. Adam Ali and Sam Arbor), Maghreb’s Hope (dir. Bassem Ben Brahim) and Warsha (dir. Dania Bdeir) – tracing a diasporic gaze shaped by longing, forbidden love and the quiet, radical pulse of queer joy.
Relax with fresh mint tea served throughout the evening as a gesture of Arab hospitality. Adorn your hands with traditional henna and uncover what the stars hold with an intimate tarot reading.
Plus, watch an exclusive conversation with Adam Ali on making work, carving space and navigating the industry as a queer North African artist. And enjoy a Super 8 sound score performance by artist Nicolas Baviere – movers and Arabic singers are welcome to participate!
After the Q&A, La Twalet Party turn the music up for a night of electronic house and Arabic dance anthems.
Soft and defiant in equal measure, SINcerely, Adam is a celebration of reclamation, resistance and the beauty of north African queer iconography.
TIMINGS
6.30pm: Doors
6.30pm: The Social opens with a screening of short films by North African filmmakers
6.30pm until late: BABA, Maghrib Hope, and What Do the Maknines Dream Of play on the exhibition screens
7.30pm: In-conversation and audience Q&A with Adam Ali, hosted by Miss Lei Lei
8.30pm: Live score of Adam's unreleased archival Super 8 film set in Libya in collaboration with experimental sound designer, composer and artist Nicolas Baviere
9.30–10.45pm: La Twalet Party — an electronic house after party with Tunisian DJ Chafik
Runtime: 4 hours 15 minutes
Age Rating: Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18+.
Accessibility: For access and facilities information, visit Aviva Studios
TICKETS
Tickets are free, pre-booking required
WHY NOT MAKE A NIGHT OF IT?
For festival attendees looking to make an extended visit to Manchester, there are many hotels hosting Pride parties and celebrations, drag brunches, freebies and surprises 🌈
All along with a city full of special events, gigs and fabulous places to eat, drink, and dance.
Book your stay and enjoy exclusive Pride perks, including:de perks, including:
🔥 Up to 30% off your stay
🍳 Fabulous drag breakfasts & brunches
🍸 Limited-edition Pride cocktails
🎁 Freebies and surprisesand Join the Celebration!