Hip-hop icon Chuck D, broadcaster Myleene Klass and etiquette expert William Hanson have been unveiled as the first speakers for this year’s Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI25).
The trio are among more than 40 speakers set to take to the stage at Leeds Playhouse from 14 – 18 October, as the festival returns with a programme tackling everything from politics and pop culture to motherhood, health and modern manners.
Organisers say this year’s line-up will be the “boldest and broadest” to date, with the full programme due to be announced on 17 June.
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The first three speakers unveiled today offer a taste of the festival’s trademark mix of radical perspectives and cultural punch.
Chuck D, founder of the groundbreaking group Public Enemy, will bring his signature fire to the LIFI stage. Revered not only as a hip-hop trailblazer but as a fierce commentator on race, justice and activism, his appearance promises to be a cultural moment in itself.
Also confirmed is musician, broadcaster and campaigner Myleene Klass MBE. A driving force behind changes in UK miscarriage policy and a vocal advocate for women’s health, Klass will lead a special panel exploring the personal and political.
Adding a touch of wit and wisdom is etiquette aficionado William Hanson. Known for his podcast Help I Sexted My Boss and the Sunday Times bestseller Just Good Manners, Hanson will dissect modern class, manners and the oddities of everyday behaviour.
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Festival Director Martin Dickson said: “We’re delighted to reveal the first three names for LIFI25, each bringing something truly different, challenging and exciting to the festival. Our full programme, which lands on 17 June, is packed with incredible speakers and new voices… This year’s line-up is the boldest and broadest we’ve ever delivered.”
Now in its latest edition, LIFI is presented by LeedsBID and supported by Bruntwood SciTech, SOYO Leeds, Weightmans and, new for 2025, Victoria Leeds.
Tickets go on sale to priority subscribers on 19 June, with general sale opening on 24 June. Audiences can sign up now at leedsintfest.com to gain early access.
Shawab Iqbal, CEO of Leeds Playhouse, added: “The festival’s focus on platforming big conversations and new thinking aligns perfectly with the Playhouse… Hosting speakers like Chuck D, Myleene Klass MBE and William Hanson reflects the festival’s power to bring together culture, challenge and change, right here in Leeds.”
The full festival programme, including discussions on politics, culture wars, music, resilience and more, will be unveiled later this month.
