Berwins Salon North returns to Harrogate in September with inspiring talks on AI, adventure, and life sciences

The highly anticipated Berwins Salon North series is set to return to Harrogate’s Crown Hotel this September, bringing with it a stimulating line-up of speakers who will delve into topics ranging from artificial intelligence to extraordinary sea voyages.

This TED-style event, which has been ranked among the top 100 things to do globally by GQ magazine, will feature three distinguished guests: business leader and author Suzanne Heywood, renowned science writer Philip Ball, and acclaimed children’s author Andy Stanton.

Suzanne Heywood: a life shaped by the high seas and high achievement

One of the evening's highlights will be Suzanne Heywood, a remarkable figure whose early life was defined by an extraordinary adventure at sea. Setting sail at the age of seven with her family, Suzanne spent nearly a decade navigating treacherous waters and experiencing the isolation of life on the ocean. These formative years shaped her resilience and determination, eventually leading her to an impressive career in business and civil service.

Now serving as the Chief Operating Officer of Exor, one of Europe’s largest holding companies, and recently honoured with a CBE for her contributions to business leadership, Suzanne will share insights from her incredible journey and discuss how these experiences influenced her professional path.

Philip Ball: unlocking the mysteries of life through science

Philip Ball, a respected science communicator and author, will take the audience on a fascinating journey into the world of genome biology with his latest book, How Life Works. With over two decades of experience as an editor for the prestigious science journal Nature and as a presenter on BBC Radio 4's Science Stories, Philip is known for his ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging.

His talk promises to reshape our understanding of life, delving deep into the mechanics that govern living organisms and exploring the latest advancements in the life sciences.

Andy Stanton: the intersection of storytelling and technology

Best known for his bestselling children’s books, Andy Stanton brings a unique perspective to the evening with his talk on modern communication and artificial intelligence, including reflections on ChatGPT.

Stanton’s work, including Benny the Blue Whale: A Descent into Story Language and the Madness of ChatGPT, showcases his trademark wit and creativity, offering an entertaining and thought-provoking commentary on how technology is transforming the way we tell stories and interact with the world.

An evening of big ideas in a relaxed setting

Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, emphasized the event's ability to spark meaningful conversations in a casual and enjoyable environment.

"Berwins Salon North always gets us talking and thinking about the world around us in a fun, relaxed, and engaging manner. This month’s subjects range from adventure and AI communication to quite literally how life works – all of which should make for another wonderful evening."

Martin Whincup, Associate Director of Berwins Solicitors, added, "Every Salon North event is a special occasion, and once again it has come up trumps with this latest trio of fantastic special guests. The Salon series is one of the highlights on Harrogate’s cultural calendar, and we are delighted to support these inspiring, thought-provoking evenings."

Event details

• Location: The Crown Hotel, Harrogate
• Date: Thursday, September 12
• Time: 7:30 PM
• Tickets: £18 (Note: a £2.50 booking fee applies)

Tickets are available through the Harrogate International Festivals website or by calling the Box Office at 01423 562 303.

About Harrogate International Festivals

Harrogate International Festivals (HIF) is a leading charitable organisation dedicated to delivering a diverse year-long program of live events that provide immersive and culturally enriching experiences. Since its inception in 1966, HIF has grown into a cultural powerhouse in the North of England, hosting over 300 performances annually. The Festival celebrates a wide array of disciplines, including music, literature, science, philosophy, and psychology, while also championing new talent. HIF’s ongoing education outreach, HIF+, engages the local community through workshops, talks, and projects, ensuring that everyone can experience the transformative power of the arts.