Leeds International Festival of Ideas 2023: BBC Dragon's Den's Steven Bartlett and Ruby Wax announced as Leeds Playhouse speakers

The pair have been announced alongside reality TV star and LGBTQ+ activist Bimini. The festival has a new home for 2023 and will take over Leeds Playhouse between September 27 and 30.

Renowned entrepreneur Steven Bartlett will delve into how he spots the next big thing, meanwhile Ruby Wax OBE will address the importance of mental wellness. Bimini will share their insight into the significance of representation and inclusivity within the media.

Ruby Wax OBE said: “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.”

Martin Dickson of Leeds International Festival of Ideas said: “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.

“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 four inspirational days across 11 events and shining an outspoken light on Leeds, projecting the city once again as a bold, innovative thought-leading city.”

Last year’s line-up featured the likes of comedian Aisling Bea, businessman Simon Jordan and chef Yotam Ottolenghi. James Brining, CEO and artistic director of Leeds Playhouse, said: “We look forward to welcoming a variety of artists and speakers to the Playhouse for Leeds International Festival 2023. Ruby Wax, Steven Barlett and Bimini are three individuals at the top of their game and using their platforms to amplify the voices of others and we are very excited about them being here in Leeds with us.

The full line-up will be announced on April 4, and further details and full tickets will also be made available on this date. More information can be found on the festival’s official website.