The news brand returns to the role in the festival’s 20th anniversary year as well as its own 40th anniversary
The partnership will see exclusive news and interviews running in The Independent, alongside a series of on-stage discussions at Henley between Independent journalists and some of the UK’s leading authors, broadcasters, politicians and cultural luminaries. Alongside in-depth editorial coverage, readers can expect to see content across The Independent’s social channels throughout the festival, running 2–11 October.
New for this year is The Independent’s weekly political podcast, ‘In The Room’. Hosts Helen MacNamara, former deputy cabinet secretary, and Cleo Watson, former special adviser, will be in conversation with Theresa May.
The Independent’s long-standing relationship with Henley Literary Festival is born out of the publication’s commitment to the values of independent thinking and diversity of thought. It follows previous years’ hugely popular News Review at Hay Festival, Hay-on-Wye and a raft of partnerships with music festivals across the UK and Europe.
Jessie Thompson, culture editor of The Independent, said: “Henley has delivered another fantastic line-up this year, offering serious breadth across literature, the arts, politics, sport, history, science, family events, and so much more. The Independent is thrilled to be taking part in our anniversary year as we celebrate 40 years of free thinking, with a number of speakers who brilliantly embody that spirit.
“From discussions with pioneering writers from Zahra Joya to Michael Morpurgo and Kate Mosse to our live ‘In the Room’ podcast episode with Theresa May, we are proud to partner once more with a festival that offers lively, invigorating conversations at a time they are so richly needed.”
Harriet Reed-Ryan, director, Henley Literary Festival, said: “With 140 events in-person and online featuring speakers from six continents, we are proud to be bringing the world to Henley and showcasing Henley to the world.
“So The Independent is a perfect fit as our news partner, as they mark 40 years and we our 20th festival.”
