It is with a heavy heart that we announce our decision to postpone the first edition of Queer East Film Festival, due to be held from 18 April to 2 May in London. Please be assured that we are looking for alternative dates later in the year.

Following the latest government advice about COVID-19, public venues across the country have closed to halt the spread of the virus and protect visitors. Given the current uncertainty around the pandemic, we no longer feel confident that we could stage the Queer East Film Festival in the form our audiences and partners expect.

Our first year has been a journey in which we’ve faced challenges, but what has kept us going is the overwhelming interest and support from filmmakers, audiences, cinemas and partners. On behalf of Queer East, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have contributed to this festival.

If you have booked tickets for any of the festival screenings, please refer to the individual cinema’s website for information about ticket refunds and exchanges.

Meanwhile, the festival would not be possible without the generous support from our cinema partners. The current situation presents a very significant financial challenge to our lovely friends, and we would like to encourage those who can, to consider making a donation during this difficult time for these independent cinemas in our community.

Keep in touch! The virus won’t stop the sharing of brave stories and we will continue to do so across our website and social media channels. We will also be continuously monitoring the situation and working with our partners so that we can welcome you back to our festival soon! Until then, stay healthy and look after each other.

Yi Wang
Director, Queer East Film Festival