Leeds International Festival of Ideas 2024 Set to Ignite Conversations and Inspire Audiences

Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI) is just one month away from transforming Leeds Playhouse into a hub of dynamic dialogue and thought-provoking debate. As anticipation builds, the festival is thrilled to announce that one of its main events has been upgraded to a larger venue due to unprecedented demand. This year’s edition has already sold over 80% of tickets, reflecting the city’s eagerness to engage with some of the most pressing issues of our time.

LIFI24 is set to bring together an extraordinary lineup of global thought leaders, artists, and innovators, each poised to challenge perceptions and ignite conversations on topics ranging from artificial intelligence and neurodiversity to addiction and the media’s portrayal of reality.

“We’re All Neurodiverse, Ain’t We?” In a nod to the iconic Leeds United chant, this crucial conversation has been upgraded to a larger venue due to overwhelming interest. From ADHD and autism to dyspraxia and dyslexia, neurodivergence touches every corner of society. This panel will challenge us all to embrace, celebrate, and advocate for inclusion and empowerment. Featuring a powerhouse lineup—Christine McGuinness, Ellie Middleton, Dr. Alice Siberry, Doddz, and Tumi Sotire—this discussion promises to be a standout moment of the festival.

Among the other standout events, Nile Rodgers’ discussion on “The Evolution of Creativity” and the Sold Out Tim Spector chat on gut health “Trust Your Gut”.

Festival Director Martin Dickson remarked, “The overwhelming response to this year’s festival is a testament to the city’s passion for bold, courageous conversations. We’re thrilled to see such high demand, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what promises to be our most impactful festival yet.” Martin who is also the Director of Brand and Innovation at LeedsBID also added “We love seeing the city turn a shade of Pink in the run up to the festival as the excitement builds.

LIFI is brought to the city by LeedsBID (the city’s Business Improvement District), in partnership with Leeds Playhouse, Bruntwood SciTech, SOYO Leeds, The Hoot and Weightmans.

This ever-growing festival is one of the major events and activations LeedsBID delivers as part of its aim to enhance and improve the look, feel and experience of being in Leeds, with LIFI showcasing Leeds on the national stage and setting it apart from other cities.

LeedsBID, the largest multi-sector BID outside of London, is now in its tenth year. This October it will be asking Leeds businesses to endorse its third term of activity, which will see an investment of £18m in Leeds city centre over next five years. LeedsBID also has ambitious plans to extend its boundary bringing benefits to new areas of the city centre.

Joining the stellar lineup are luminaries such as Tim Spector, Kate Garraway, Stacey Dooley, Carol Vorderman, and many others. These influential figures will lead discussions that delve into critical issues affecting society today, from the complexities of addiction to the ever-evolving role of technology in our lives.

James Brining, Artistic Director and CEO of Leeds Playhouse, added, “Hosting LIFI for the second year is a privilege. The festival not only brings some of the world’s most exciting thinkers to Leeds but also creates a space for our community to engage with these ideas in a way that’s unique to this city.”

With over 80% of tickets already sold, the remaining seats are expected to be snapped up quickly. Attendees are encouraged to secure their spots now to be part of this landmark event.

Don’t miss the chance to join the conversation and be part of the Leeds International Festival of Ideas from October 2 to 5, 2024. Visit leedsintfest.com for the latest updates and ticket information.

A to Z of everyone appearing at LIFI24: 

Kate Adie CBE, Dr Charlotte Armitage, Georgie Barrat, BEKA, Grace Beverley, Jazz Boatswain, Marverine Cole, Doddz, Stacey Dooley MBE, Daniella Draper, Kate Garraway MBE, Paterson Joseph, Emily Kenway, Dr Amir Khan, Taylor Little, Christine McGuinness, Paul McNamee, Ellie Middleton, Lizzy Oma, Clifford Price (AKA Goldie), Claire Rimmer, Nile Rodgers, Rylan, Dr Nisha Sharma, Dr Alice Siberry, Chris Sylvester, Tumi Sotire, Tim Spector OBE, Pandora Sykes, Rebecca Lucy Taylor (AKA Self Esteem), Nigel Toon, Carol Vorderman MBE, Dr Adrienne Williams, Matt Willis, Prof Tim Wilson and Lauren Windle.

LIFI24 Event Timetable