BLEND 002: Breaking Barriers as Queer Women in Manchester’s Music and Nightlife Scene
23 September 2025
On April 23, 2025, CROP and GLOSS MCR hosted the second instalment of their panel talk series, BLEND. Continuing their mission to connect communities, spark conversations and explore the deeper layers of Manchester’s music and nightlife culture.
Hosted by Misty (GLOSS MCR), the tone was set with a powerful reminder that we require more than just conversation but visibility, action, empowerment and community.
The panel featured the voices of four queer women at the heart of Manchester’s creative and nightlife landscape. Beau Azra, a creative producer and performer, working with the likes of Factory International, From the Other, and Feel Good Club. Mix-Stress (Rebecca Swarray), DJ, event curator and Principal for Culture & NTE at GMCA. Jess Rose, music producer, workshop facilitator, and event organiser. As well as FREEQUENCY3, a local artist, host, DJ, facilitator and performer.
Together they unpacked lived experiences, resilience, and transformation within Manchester’s music scene. Centering queer women’s voices while highlighting the systemic barriers still present in nightlife culture.
Each panellist shared personal stories of entering the industry and navigating exclusion, stereotypes, and underestimation. From being told they were “too queer” or “too political,” to witnessing their identities tokenised without meaningful support. The discussion brought to light the realities of working in a male-dominated and often heteronormative industry.
The conversation also delved into intersectionality, reflecting on how queerness overlaps with race, class, gender identity and health. Jess spoke openly about her experiences as a trans woman in nightlife spaces, while FREEQUENCY3 reflected on balancing artistry with chronic health conditions. Rebecca highlighted how policy and lived experience intersect in her work and Beau discussed the importance of grassroots queer spaces in shaping her creative journey.
While Manchester was celebrated for its vibrancy and cultural legacy, the panellists made clear that barriers remain. From tokenistic bookings, to unsafe spaces that fail to centre queer women and marginalised voices. The group emphasised that true diversity means more than visibility. Not only is structural change paramount, this must be supported by mentorship opportunities and long-term investment into inclusive programming.
The discussion closed with reflections on resilience and hope. Despite ongoing political and cultural challenges, including recent rulings affecting trans rights, the panellists reaffirmed the power of creativity, solidarity and community to drive change.
The final words centred on empowerment. Breaking barriers is an ongoing process and every act of resistance, visibility and creativity pushes the scene forward.
All proceeds from the evening were donated to The Mermaid Trust, reinforcing BLEND’s commitment to pairing dialogue with tangible impact.
Stay tuned for future BLEND events, ensuring Manchester’s music and nightlife scene keeps growing into a more inclusive and representative space for all.
