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LIFI25: Leeds International Festival of Ideas

14 – 18 Oct 2025

  • Venue
    Quarry and Courtyard

The Leeds International Festival of Ideas returns to Leeds Playhouse this October!

This year’s festival promises to be its boldest yet, bringing together over 40 influential voices to spark fresh conversations across culture, politics, identity, and innovation.

FIRESIDE CHATS

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LIFI25: Chuck D

14 Oct 2025

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How hip-hop changed the world

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LIFI25: Sally Wainwright & Tamsin Greig

15 Oct 2025

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I predict a riot

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LIFI25: David Baddiel

16 Oct 2025

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Is religion the ultimate culture war?

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LIFI25: William Hanson

17 Oct 2025

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Manners cost nowt

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LIFI25: Vicky McClure’s Our Dementia Choir

18 Oct 2025

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Finding hope in creativity – music is medicine

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PANEL DISCUSSIONS

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LIFI25: Who rules the world?

14 Oct 2025

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Politicians, big tech, media moguls, and hidden influencers all hustle for control behind the scenes – but who really holds the power today?

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LIFI25: Where have all the good men gone?

15 Oct 2025

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Masculinity has never been more hotly debated, with social media and pop culture splitting opinion—from toxic traits to the rise of positive and healthy male role models.

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LIFI25: Who picks up the tab for a hospitable city?

16 Oct 2025

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From boutique bars to international hotel chains, towns and cities worldwide champion hospitality and tourism. But are we truly supporting the sector?

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LIFI25: Why do we need to talk about domestic abuse?

16 Oct 2025

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Domestic abuse is a now a national emergency, with 1 in 5 adults experiencing domestic abuse in their lifetime.

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LIFI25: Can mums have it all?

17 Oct 2025

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We’re told women can have it all, but who’s keeping score?

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LIFI25: How level is the playing field?

18 Oct 2025

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Women’s sport is finally getting the spotlight it deserves—bigger crowds, more funding, and growing visibility on screens and in stadiums. But beneath the progress lies a harsh reality.

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  • MAJOR FUNDERS

    Arts Council

  • Leeds City Council

  • LTB Foundation

  • Founded by UK government

  • Suppoprted by west Yorkshire

  • Principal Partner

    Caddick Group

  • Principal Access Partner

    Irwin Mitchell