Inspiring Talks
Inspiring people from all across the globe converge at Darlington Hippodrome to share their galvanizing stories, life tips, and even sometimes chilling facts. You may well recognise some of the faces from TV, or maybe you've read their books or listened to them on the radio. One thing's for certain, there's nothing quite like seeing the person live on stage.
Take a look at what's coming up...
Mark Steel: The Leopard in my House
Friday 10 October
Join multi award-winning, BAFTA-nominated writer and comedian Mark Steel for his new tour ‘The Leopard in My House’. The topic? His battle with throat cancer. A battle he is winning (thankfully) and which only his rapier wit could fashion a comedy tour show out of. Cancer has done nothing to dull Mark's acute political observations or quash his "frankly bonkers" energy: you will laugh, you will cry, but you'll laugh again, and again, and again. The Leopard in My House is proof that this leftie, working-class, Radio 4 favourite truly deserves his place in the UK comedy pantheon.
An Audience with Stuart Broad presented by Laithwaites
Sunday 12 October
Join one of England’s greatest cricketers, Stuart Broad, one year on after taking his final wicket. He’ll reflect on the highs and lows of his sensational 17-year career as well as the new challenges he faces beyond the boundary rope.
Renowned for his colourful personality both on and off the field, Stuart will take to the stage to discuss unforgettable moments - from Ashes glory and winning the T20 World Cup to joining the elite club of bowlers to take over 600 wickets.
Click here for more information
Michael Portillo - A Life of Two Halves
Monday 16 February
Secretary of State. Traveller. TV superstar. The inimitable Michael Portillo joins us live on stage to share funny, insightful, and poignant stories from his extraordinarily rich and varied life.
The son of a refugee who rose to become one of Britain’s leading politicians and best loved broadcasters, Michael Portillo’s life has been a game of two halves. As a statesman he served under Margaret Thatcher, ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party, and lost his seat in one of the most famous moments in British political history, only to become one of the nation’s favourite broadcasters, sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew O’Neill and enthralling millions of us with his travels on the world’s greatest railways.