We’re seeing in the festival weekend with the electric New Music Stage, showcasing 10 breakthrough artists. The winner will be decided by a jury stacked with industry experts, including Universal Music and BBC Introducing! Plus, explore today’s roundup of screenings, special events, masterclasses, immersive experiences and more. Be part of the action with your festival pass and discover our weekend events in the Programme!

Today’s Spotlight Genre: Animation

Our collection of animated shorts offer reflections on a range of themes: identity, culture, memory, societal pressures and what it means to belong. Through beautiful, vivid visuals and powerful storytelling, our animated reels capture the tension between chaos and connection, reminding us that every journey – imagined or real – begins with a moment of change. To attend screenings, a valid pass is required. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Top Masterclasses

At 10:30, join Anna Rice for an in-depth conversation about scoring to picture at the York Theatre Royal Studio. Head to YSJU De Grey Lecture Theatre Royal at 12:00 to hear from Julie La’Bassiere, offering practical, achievable promotion advice. Alternatively, stay at the York Theatre Royal Studio for a masterclass from Anne Rudd, breaking down the key elements of costume design for screen.

Please note, pre-booking for masterclasses is essential due to capacity.

Daily Networking Session: Sync in Focus – Connecting Music and Moving Image
York Theatre Royal Upper Foyer | 15:45 -16:45

Whether you’re a filmmaker looking to grasp music partnerships or a musician interested in breaking into visual media, this is a practical entry point into the world of sync. The session opens with three talks from leading figures, including Universal Music, Rough Trade Records and Domino Recording Company. After, join attendees for an opportunity to connect in an informal networking session.

New Music Stage
York Theatre Royal Mainhouse | 13:00-22:00

The New Music Stage is where audiences will experience live sets from five of the ten shortlisted acts in this year’s competition. Our all-day festival brings the country’s most exciting breakthrough artists across an array of genres – from indie and hiphop to alt-pop and folk. This is the place to see the headliners of tomorrow, with artists who are making waves. Set in the cinematic context of one of the UK’s leading film festivals, it’s an open invite to hear what’s next in music. Included with a valid Film Festival Pass. No booking is required to attend.

VR & Immersive Experiences Lab
National Centre for Early Music
4-7 November 10:00-21:30 | 8 November 10:00-18:30

The potential of 360° cinema knows no bounds. These immersive formats put audiences into the heart of the story, allowing them to explore both real-world and fantastical spaces. By placing viewers at the centre of the action, immersive storytelling creates new chances to connect with characters, places and perspectives that goes beyond traditional filmmaking. Now in its eighth year, the VR and Immersive Experiences Lab returns to push the boundaries of storytelling. One-hour slots, throughout the day. Free with pass; advance booking is recommended.

Makers’ Forum
York Theatre Royal Colonnade | 10:00-18:00

Get an inside look at the creative minds that are behind this year’s Official Selection – from films and shorts to extended reality, games and podcasts. In fast-paced, 10-minute spotlights, each team shares the distinctive journey of their project, from the initial idea to its final delivery. Discover how stories evolve across a range of formats, what fuels innovation and how bold ideas come alive.

Kids’ Workshops
York St John Creative Centre
7-8 November | 10:00-12:00 & 14:00-16:00

Join today and tomorrow as we offer 7-14 year olds the opportunity to learn how to direct their own films, develop their own games, create animated shorts. They’ll have the chance to be both in front of and behind the camera, gaining insights into the magic of filmmaking and games design. Led by teams at Animation Nation, Computer Xplorers, Investigate. Games and Pauline Quirke Academy. Pre-booking is essential.

Sticks & Glass Presents: Meet the Makers
Rose Within the Walls | 21:00-Late

Meet the Makers is your chance to get to know the creatives at the heart of Aesthetica 2026. The event is sponsored by Sticks and Glass, a fresh new post production space located in central Leeds. Catch up with the friends you’ve already made or make some brand new connections. This event is for everyone whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced professional. Join us with a complimentary glass of wine upon arrival.