PROJECT OVERVIEW
Now in its second year, Queer East’s Up Next: Future Film Curators Lab is a unique opportunity for passionate individuals to delve into the art and craft of film programming in relation to LGBTQ+ cinema from, and about, East and Southeast Asia.
The programme features talks, workshops and mentorship sessions, conducted both online and in-person from December 2025 to May 2026. There will be an introductory in-person session on Sunday, 14th December in London. Please only apply if you are able to attend. The curriculum is designed to offer a well-rounded understanding of film curation and Queer East’s programming process, incorporating discussions of film aesthetics, research, curation, and East & Southeast Asian cinema. You will also gain practical knowledge of marketing, planning, film licensing, and essential skills such as copywriting and event management. As part of the programme, you will also have a chance to hear from industry guest speakers from across the film exhibition sector, and you will receive mentorship from the festival team to support your curatorial ideas.
Participants will collaborate as a team on curating a series of short film programmes, to be presented as part of Queer East Festival 2026 in London in late April, and its On the Road nationwide tour later in the year.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share a genuine interest in queer cinema and East & Southeast Asian cinema. No prior qualifications are needed. We envision ideal candidates as those who are creative and enjoy working collaboratively.
You should have time to fully commit to the programme, which includes participating in all sessions, viewing films, joining discussions, attending events, and meeting deadlines.
The project aims to offer industry opportunities to emerging talent nationwide. As such, it is specifically designed for individuals who are based outside of the Greater London area, who live in any other UK region. We unfortunately cannot accept applications from people based in the Greater London area.
To be eligible, applicants should have no more than 12 months of professional experience in film curation and programming for established venues/festivals.
Please note that we are not able to accept applicants who are currently enrolled as full-time students in taught education.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Taking part in the programme is free, and selected participants will receive a £350 curation fee for their involvement in the scheme, as well as travel and accommodation bursaries for attending project-related events.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please complete the application here by 16 November 2025, 11:59 pm.
We aim to inform you of the outcome by 21 November, and the first introductory session will be held in-person in London on Sunday 14 December.
ABOUT QUEER EAST
Queer East is a cross-disciplinary festival that showcases boundary-pushing LGBTQ+ cinema, live arts, and moving image work from East and Southeast Asia and its diaspora communities. The festival was established in response to the systemic lack of Asian representation in the creative sector, and aims to enable an open space exploring what it means to be queer and Asian today.
The festival takes place in over ten venues across London, including Barbican Centre, BFI Southbank, ICA, Museum of the Home, and Rio Cinema, to name just a few. Its 2026 edition is currently planned for late April.
