From Frank Bruno to Buddhist monks and punk poet John Cooper Clarke, tickets are now on sale
It’s known for its diverse roster of speakers and Leeds International Festival (2-12 May) is living up to its reputation with this year’s lineup, which spans underground disco to the meaning of life.
Heading up the first wave of events is Rewire Leeds - an interactive game taking place across the city that requires participants to work to protect Leeds and its townsfolk - and the Music:Leeds Launchpad, a unique exhibition showcasing local talent. The All Day Hey! is also set to be a sellout, providing a networking opportunity for tech types to celebrate creative STEM careers.
Over at Leeds Beckett, meanwhile, a roundtable discussion on the meaning of life will take place with panelists including Reasons To Stay Alive novelist Matt Haig, Professor Alice Roberts and Buddhist monk Gelong Thubten.
Fancy a round with Frank Bruno MBE? The man himself will be appearing in the ‘BlaqueXplosion’: a discussion of black music, mental health and culture, with support from Jermain Jackman and Sound System Iration Steppas. Or perhaps punk poetry is more your lane? Watch the legendary John Cooper Clarke perform new material, or get involved in some underground disco with Crazy P.
Also announced is Juice Box with Tommy Cash and Yves Tumor - one for lovers of conceptual art, grime and gothic soundscapes.
Speaking on the launch, festival executive Gemma Holsgrove said: “L19 will present an amazing eclectic line-up (designed) to inform, inspire and entertain audiences across the city. We have some of the world’s leading thinkers, innovators and pioneers (as well as) local creators showcasing new and experimental works while celebrating the city’s’ rich cultural diversity and unshakable creative spirit.”
Tickets are on sale now on at leedsinternationalfestival.com - stay tuned for 15 March, when the full programme will be announced
