Popstar Dua Lipa, Stormazy and author Margaret Atwood among line-up for Hay Festival 2023
Pop sensation Dua Lipa, rapper Stormzy and author Margaret Atwood have been announced as part of the line-up for Hay Festival 2023.
The One Kiss singer, who gave the keynote speech at this year's Booker Prize ceremony, will record her podcast, Dua Lipa: At Your Service, at the 36th edition of the literary event in Hay-on-Wye.
Stormzy, the 29-year-old singer and rapper, will celebrate five years since launching his own publishing imprint #Merky Books, a collaboration with Penguin Random House, with a “special event” during the festival.
Lipa has already talked to Olympian Mo Farah, Schitt's Creek's Dan Levy and The Daily Show's Trevor Noah as part of her interview series.
She said: "I have wanted to explore the bookshops of Hay and experience the literary atmosphere of the Hay Festival for such a long time.
"So I'm thrilled that I will be there next year to share stories on stage and off with some of my favourite authors, and to soak up the inspiration alongside my fellow book-lovers."
The 36th edition of the literary event in Hay-on-Wye will take place from May 25 to June 4, with more than 500 in-person events set to take place over 11 days across eight stages in the festival village.
Stormzy said: “It all started with books for me. As a kid in school, I fell in love with literature and it sparked a life-long journey with words and writing, which led into my career as a songwriter and a musician.
“I’m really excited to pass on this passion at Hay Festival, celebrate our incredible #Merky Books writers, and inspire the next generation of storytellers. Can’t wait to see you guys there!”
Lipa and Stomzy will be joined by two-time Booker Prize winner Atwood, who will tell the audience about her short story collection, Old Babes In The Wood during event which will take place from 25 May to 4 June in Hay-on-Wye.
The 83-year-old author's works The Handmaid's Tale and Alias Grace have been turned into critically acclaimed TV series.
Sir Michael Parkinson will share his sports writing in My Sporting Life: Memories, Moments And Declarations.
The 87-year-old broadcaster famously interviewed boxer and world heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali and was friends with George Best, who played for Manchester United.
Philosopher AC Grayling, broadcaster Jon Snow, journalist Misha Glenny and historian David Olusoga are also part of the announced authors.
Hillary Clinton and Benedict Cumberbatch were among the line-up at last year's festival.
Scottish rock duo The Proclaimers, of I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) fame, will give a performance as part of the music, comedy and spoken word events.
Hay Festival chief executive Julie Finch said: "(It) is for everyone and spring's offer of a broad and inclusive line-up, an expanded families offer, and even more free activities in and around the festival village will underscore that further to reach the widest possible audiences.
Tickets are on sale now to Friends of Hay Festival and public booking will open at 12pm on Friday 17 March.