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Leeds International Festival of Ideas returns with huge lineup announcement and brand new venue
"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.”
Headlining the event this year will be the likes of Bimini, Ruby Wax and Steven Bartlett.
Taking over Leeds Playhouse, a brand new venue for 2023, Leeds International Festival of Ideas is bringing together some of the most thought-provoking speakers of our time later this year with a diverse programme and educational discussions.
Giving a glimpse of what we're in store for this year, LIFI has announced the first of its highly-anticipated speakers.
Best-selling author and mental health campaigner Ruby Wax will be bringing her unique brand of humour to the festival as she takes the audience on her journey to address the importance of mental wellness.
Ruby Wax is "thrilled to be a part of the line-up". / Image: Supplied
The author, performer and activist is excited about joining the festival: “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.”
Steven Bartlett, perhaps most notably known as the podcaster Diary of a CEO, co-Founder of Social Chain, and also as an investor on Dragon's Den, amongst other business endeavours, will be taking to the stag to share an insight into 'how he spots the next big thing'.
Steven Bartlett will be telling Leeds how he 'spots the next big thing'. / Image: Supplied
Bringing an insight into representation and inclusivity in the media, reality TV star and LGBTQ+ activist Bimini, will also be a key speaker at the International Festival of Ideas.
And this is just the beginning.
The four day festival promises to 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 from Wednesday 27 September - Saturday 30 September 2023.
Bimini is bringing a wealth of knowledge to LIFI23. / Image: Supplied
And what better venue than the Leeds Playhouse?
The award-winning cultural hub was recently recognised at the UK Theatre Awards as the Most Welcoming Theatre in 2022. With a mission to seek out the best companies and artists to create inspirational theatre in the heart of Yorkshire, Leeds Internationals Festival of Ideas, will be joining the long list of exciting productions, festivals and events that Leeds Playhouse have hosted over the past 50 years.
Martin Dickson, Leeds International Festival of Ideas has commented: “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.
Last year the festival brought conversations about the metaverse, mental health and communities, amongst other exciting discussions. / Image: The Hoot Leeds
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.”
There’s a huge outdoor 80s Classical music festival coming to Leeds this summer
The full lineups and tickets will be available from Tuesday 4 April but in the meantime those wanting to grab tickets are encouraged to visit the Leeds International Festival of Ideas website to sign up for announcements and ticket updates.
Feature Image- Supplied
Feature
Behind the doors of a former church that has been renovated into a beautiful home in North Yorkshire
Nestled in the North Yorkshire countryside, Fell View Chapel dates all the way back to 1846.
Ever wanted to live in an abandoned church? Well, now's your chance.
This former Methodist Church dates all the way back to 1846 and has all the original features to match.
If you can look past the possible ghosts that may be lurking, this one-of-a-kind property can be yours for just £450,000.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
Step through the original church door and you'll be met by a striking open-plan living space with a fully functioning log burner to keep you warm through the winter months, complete with a beautiful contemporary kitchen which has been renovated to the highest spec.
The floating first floor features a glass landing that overlooks the ground floor below, and of course there's stunning stained glass windows throughout the property.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
This architectural conversion has taken five years to complete and there's been no expense spared, the pulpit and pews have even been kept to really keep that churchy vibe.
Here's what the listing says: "Welcome to The Old Methodist Church, originally built in 1846 and beautifully transformed over the past five years into a truly exceptional home.
"This remarkable conversion seamlessly blends contemporary living with the building’s historic charm, creating a residence that is both striking and deeply characterful.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
"Every detail has been tastefully and skilfully executed, carefully preserving original features while introducing modern design and comfort. The stained glass windows, original pulpit and pews remain as stunning focal points — a real marvel and a tribute to the building’s heritage."
Inside the modern Japanese grill coming to Leeds from the team behind Fern Modern Sushi
Clementine Hall
We've been very excited about this one.
If you know anything about the Leeds food scene, then you'll know the absolute legend that is Chef Fern.
Her first restaurant, Fern Modern Sushi, is a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Known for their expertly crafted sushi made with the freshest fish on offer.
And now, she's turning her attention to her second venture - Tori Nori.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Tori Nori is a modern Japanese grill and bar inspired by the bustling izakayas of Tokyo.
Everything is centred around the fiery robata grill where guests can watch the chefs cook everything from grilled fish to delicious yakitori skewers right in front of their very eyes.
All designed to share, this is a place to hang out with friends, enjoy some delicious food and maybe sink a few Japanese-inspired cocktails whilst you're at it.
Images: The Hoot leeds
Located on Vicar Lane, the space has had a whole refurb and it's looking fantastic. Complete with perfectly moody lighting, plush banquette seating and beautiful Japanese-inspired wallpaper.
The menu features an entire yakitori menu, from cheesy chicken thighs and pork belly to grilled king prawn and Japanese A5 wagyu all grilled over charcoal.
There's also Fern's signature sushi on the menu, as well as big plates to share such as teryaki half chickens and miso lamb chops.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
You just know that everything Fern touches turns to gold but don't just take our word for it, get yourself to Tori Nori and try it out for yourselves.
Tori Nori will officially open its doors on Friday 10 April. Find out more and book your table here.
Sophie Smith -
7th March 2023 
