With only a week to go before HowTheLightGetsIn – the world’s largest philosophy and music festival – the Carousel team has selected 10 unmissable moments from the 500 events, artists and performances across 12 stages taking place in beautiful Hay-On-Wye 25-28 May.
- The Philosophy Dinner with Yasmin Alibhai-Brown
Dine with 2017’s Columnist of the Year, Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, as she questions why we still need democracy even when we don’t like what it brings.
- James Acaster topping the comedy line-up
James Acaster’s shows have earned him an unprecedented five consecutive nominations for Best Show at Edinburgh Comedy Awards. His regular appearances on Mock The Week, numerous Netflix stand-up specials and his BBC Radio 4 series have earned him widespread admiration.
- The Meaning of Life Debate with Psychologist Steve Taylor, philosopher and author of The Ego Trick Julian Baggini and Absolutely Fabulous star Helen Lederer
In an age without belief and without certainties there is a risk that we all find ourselves a little lost. But Camus claimed “you will never live, if you are looking for the meaning of life”. Should we focus on experience and being in the moment? Or is a life without an overall goal and direction also a life without meaning? And if so, where do we find it?
- Noam Chomsky discussing the 2018 theme of Darkness, Authority and Dreams
Philosopher and activist Noam Chomsky, live from Arizona, joins author of The Once and Future Liberal Mark Lilla, and economist Deirdre McCloskey to confront the darkness authority can bring.
- Ed Miliband and Geoff Lloyd air a live episode of podcast ‘Reasons To Be Cheerful’
Former Labour leader, Ed Miliband and British radio presenter, television host and writer Geoff Lloyd, will appear in a unique festival event recording an episode of their podcast, ‘Reasons to be Cheerful’.
- Camille O’Sullivan taking to the Riverside Hat Stage
Hot footing from Dublin and New York, Olivier award-winner and Irish Tatler Woman of the Year Camille O’Sullivan returns to HowTheLightGetsIn following collaborations with Yoko Ono, Patti Smith and Jools Holland.
- Blanaevon Male Voice Choir making their annual appearance
There’s a time for tradition. Each year the wonderfully magical Blaenavon Male Voice Choir have closed the festival, and there’s never a dry eye – or spare inch – in the house. Founded over a century ago in 1910, the premier Welsh choir is still going strong, and has toured across the world. Prepare to be moved.
- The Riverside Disco presented by Alfresco Disco
Alfresco Disco bring their incredible DJs to HowTheLigthGetsIn this year as resident curators of the Riverside Disco. Expect cool disco daytimes followed by serious late night partying.
- The Banquets
Join a table of fellow festival goers at the infamous Long Table Banquets at the Waterfront on Riverside. Expect a lavish four course meal, excellent company and a Sahrahan Surf soundtrack from Robin Shaw, all set in magical setting right next to the Wye.
- Tricity Vogue Cabaret
Ukulele strumming, Tricity Vogue, has been nominated twice for a London Cabaret Award and cut a swathe through the UK cabaret scene with her hit Edinburgh Fringe shows. Charming, offbeat musical cabaret from a vintage songstress with a repertoire of surprising tunes. It’s a spectacle not to be missed.
