The best of Hay 2017
A selection of highlights from the 30th anniversary event.
Michael Sheen: Empathy should be our foundation
As part of his Aneurin Bevan lecture, the actor discusses the importance of compassion.
Elif Shafak: There are two ways to write a book
The Turkish author explains how she relies on instinct when writing her novels.
Frank Cotterell Boyce: How culture works
The author explains why it's a mistake for the arts to be judged in purely economic terms.
Bill Bailey: Why I love the collective nouns for birds
From a 'charm of goldfinches' to a 'coil of wigeon'; the comedian's favourite bird terms.
Lemn Sissay: Why foster care kids make great heroes
The poet outlines the importance of orphans and foster children in fiction and literature.
Bernie Sanders: Most Americans don't agree with President Trump
The opening of the US Senator's Eric Hobsbawm Lecture.
Neil Gaiman: Writing Doctor Who script made me feel like a god
The author of American Gods is asked if being a writer is like being a deity.
James Rhodes' dedication to the people of Manchester
The pianist's encore was a rendition of Gluck's Melody from Orfeo ed Euridice.
Nadya Tolokno: What you need to know about Putin
The Pussy Riot punk rocker and activist gives her take on Russia's controversial leader.
Garry Kasparov: Deep Blue was as intelligent as an alarm clock
The grandmaster describes competing against the chess-playing computer developed by IBM.
Tony Robinson: I thought the Blackadder script was rubbish
The actor recalls his first impression of the comedy pilot, and how it changed his life.
Tracey Emin: Art is my life support
The contemporary artist explains why she needs her work in order to function.
Ed Balls: Why I did Strictly Come Dancing
The former MP explains why he swapped politics for the Strictly dancefloor.
Graham Norton: I don't think critics expected my book to be good
The comedian admits he was surprised at the positive reviews his debut novel received.
Lucy Worsley: Did Jane Austen ever have sex?
The Pride and Prejudice author also penned some interesting words on childbirth.
Stephen Fry: Prepare for a technological reformation
The writer and broadcaster on why we must embrace the new technology shaping our future.
Tom Daley: The story behind my tattoo
The moment from the Beijing Olympics that left a lasting impression on the teenage diver.
Helen Fielding: I can say it now, Bridget Jones was me
Author admits she was too embarrassed to say the iconic character was based on her.
