A carefully curated programme, jilted from convention, for audiences of all ages, Refract is back July ’26 with the seventh edition.
Curated by Waterside Arts, our exciting festival of work takes place in and around Sale in Trafford.
Expect the unexpected as Trafford’s award-winning arts destination is re-imagined both inside and out. This six day event promises bold performance and awe-inspiring experiences for everyone.
Refract is a festival of work curated by Waterside Arts and Creative Industries Trafford. The programme uses spaces both inside and outside Waterside, often taking place in an unusual setting in response to the piece of work being staged.
The inaugural Refract festival took place in 2017 when Waterside curated a series of events and performances to show how our vibrant building and all of its spaces can be used in innovative, surprising and creative ways.

