Big names heading to city for Festival of Ideas

Comedian David Baddiel, rapper Chuck D and journalist Victoria Derbyshire will be among the big names to appear at this year's Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI), organisers have said.

Also taking part would be writer Sally Wainwright, talking about her new Hebden Bridge-based TV drama, I Predict A Riot, along with Tamsin Greig, one of the show's stars.

The festival, between 14-18 October, was expected to feature talks, discussions and performances tackling some of society's biggest questions, organisers said.

Festival director Martin Dickson said this year's event, also featuring Vicky McClure, Myleene Klass and Caitlin Moran, would be "the most urgent and exciting edition yet".

"In an increasingly polarised world, we need safe spaces to explore difficult topics with empathy, expertise and a sense of hope," he said.

Baddiel, who is also an author and podcaster, was expected to explore faith, division and identity in Is Religion the Ultimate Culture War? which would take place at Leeds Playhouse on 16 October, according to the festival's organisers.

Legendary Public Enemy frontman Chuck D would take part in How Hip-Hop Changed the World, a conversation with broadcaster Nihal Arthanayake at the same venue on 14 October.

Meanwhile, etiquette expert and podcaster William Hanson was expected to present Manners Cost Nowt, an exploration of what counts as good manners, and why they still matter.

Other events would include Our Dementia Choir Live, with Vicky McClure bringing her inspiring project to Leeds with a mix of music and conversation, while Fara Williams MBE, Verity Smith and Emily Campbell would take part in How Level is the Playing Field? - a debate on gender equality in sport.

Mr Dickson said: "This year's line-up reflects the richness of public discourse, from legendary cultural icons to everyday change-makers, all ready to challenge ideas, share truths and spark curiosity.

"Leeds has always been a city of voices. LIFI is where they come together."

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