Adie named as speaker at festival

Adie named as speaker at festival

20 September 2017

BAFTA-winning Kate Adie is among this year’s Mount Stewart Conversations Festival speakers, alongside previously announced Ian Hislop, Rachel Johnson and Rosie Boycott. 

The group of internationally renowned authors, artists and presenters will each share their experiences, wisdom and advice through a series of talks and panel debates that will take place at the two-day festival on October 14 and 15 at the inspirational grounds of Mount Stewart.

Kate Adie grew up in Sunderland and became a familiar figure through her work as BBC Chief News Correspondent. She was one of the first British women sending despatches from danger zones around the 

world including her assignment in both Gulf Wars and four years of war in the Balkans.  

Kate carried out numerous assignments in Northern Ireland throughout the Troubles as well as reporting on the referendum to ratify the Good Friday Agreement. She is also the long-serving presenter of Radio 4’s From Our Own Correspondent and a presenter and contributor to many other radio and television programmes. She was awarded the OBE in 1993.

Other names to feature in the festival include Jonathan Lynn who co-wrote Yes Minister and Yes Prime Minister, Dan Cruickshank, Natalie Haynes, Edith Hall and Fiona Stafford, as part of a programme of events delivered by BBC Northern Ireland at Mount Stewart Conversations Festival.

The specialist talks will explore a wealth of topics of global, political and social interest, including the 2018 anniversary of Women and Suffrage, Brexit and the Irish Economy, Political Women of Ireland, Journeys through time, Myths and Legends and much more. 

Alongside the main programme of talks and discussions, the festival will also feature a full programme of arts and animation for all the family to enjoy which will include an eclectic mix of participative activities, where visitors can create new art, make music, or leave their mark on an interactive art wall. Or check out the alternative lecture series featuring topics including the History of the Mixed Drink, Use Mind Control like Donald Trump or Abandoned NI.

“This year’s festival is attracting a wonderful line up of speakers who will share, reflect and debate a wealth of contemporary topics”, said Mount Stewart General Manager, Jon Kerr. “In addition to the amazing programme of talks, the programme of arts and animation will create an opportunity for visitors to get involved, be challenged and have fun with all the family.”

For tickets and further details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart. Normal admission applies, and members go free.

Tickets for BBC NI talks will be available on the BBC website. 

Mount Stewart Conversations Festival is supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council.