LIFI23 is back, bigger and bolder

Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI23) is proud to announce its initial three speakers for this year’s festival, set to take place in a new home in September 2023.The festival will bring together some of the most innovative and thought-provoking minds from around the world to encourage conversation, connection and curiosity.

This year LIFI23 will take over Leeds Playhouse from 27th-30th September to present its diverse programme of inspiring and educational discussions.

Leeds Playhouse has been one of the UK’s leading producing theatres for more than 50 years. It is an award-winning theatre and a cultural hub, a place where people gather to tell and share stories and engage in world class theatre. Its warm welcome was recently recognised at the UK Theatre Awards, where it was named Most Welcoming Theatre 2022. It makes work which is pioneering and relevant, seeking out the best companies and artists to create inspirational theatre in the heart of Yorkshire.  

Leading the charge are three highly anticipated speakers: Ruby Wax OBE, Steven Bartlett, and Bimini. Ruby Wax, performer, best-selling author and mental health campaigner, will bring her unique brand of humour to the festival as she takes the audience on her journey to address the importance of mental wellness. Steven Bartlett, the renowned entrepreneur and TV personality and podcaster will delve into how he spots the next big thing. Bimini, the trailblasing reality TV star and LGBTQ+ activist, will share their insights on the significance of representation and inclusivity in media.

The Leeds International Festival of Ideas 2023 is a four-day event designed to bring together a diverse group of experts, thought-leaders, and innovators to discuss the most pressing issues facing our world today. This year’s festival will again host a programme of panels and keynotes which focus on topics such as grief, political systems, womxn’s health inequalities and self-sufficiency, among others.

The festival provides attendees with a unique opportunity to engage with experts, hear from thought-provoking speakers, and participate in interactive discussions. The festival’s mission is to inspire and educate, and to provide a platform for fresh ideas and new perspectives.

Martin Dickson, Leeds International Festival of Ideas: “We are thrilled with the programme we are bringing to the city for LIFI23, built on the outstanding success of last year, we think it is our strongest speaker line-up yet.

We’re also hugely excited to be presenting the festival at the incredible Leeds Playhouse, on of the most famous theatre venue in the city, a privilege and an honour.

LIFI23 will once again address some of the most important social issues affecting us all, taking them on over 4 inspirational days across 11 events and shining an outspoken light on Leeds, projecting the city once again as a bold, innovative thought-leading city.”

Artistic Director Playhouse and CEO James Brining said: “We look forward to welcoming a variety of artists and speakers to the Playhouse for Leeds International Festival 2023.  Ruby Wax, Steven Barlett and Bimini are three individuals at the top of their game and using their platforms to amplify the voices of others and we are very excited about them being here in Leeds with us.

“At Leeds Playhouse, our aim is to open up our theatre, with its flexible conference spaces and three auditoria, to welcome local, national and international artists to the region, and to facilitate conversations and share stories that reflect the world we live in and celebrate Leeds as a culture rich, vibrant city.”

Ruby Wax OBE, one of the keynote speakers at LIFI23, said: “Leeds International Festival of ideas 2023 looks really exciting and I’m thrilled to be part of the line-up this year. I can’t wait to visit Leeds again and take audiences on my journey to mindfulness.”

Don’t miss the chance to be a part of the conversation. Join us at the Leeds International Festival of Ideas from September 27th to 30th.

Further details and full tickets will be available on 4th April along with the full line-up and fans are encouraged to visit leedsintfest.com to sign up for latest news and ticket updates.