What’s Happening at Berwins Salon North This June in Harrogate?

Ever walked out of an event and felt like your brain had just been given a good shake? That’s pretty much the vibe at Berwins Salon North, and the next one’s coming up on Thursday, June 5 at The Crown Hotel in Harrogate. If your idea of a fun evening is being challenged, surprised, and a bit mind-blown (in the best way), then you’ll want to grab a ticket.

This isn’t a dry lecture or a formal affair. Think more: smart mates, a good bar, and three fascinating talks that’ll have you questioning everything from what depression really is to how we actually listen to each other. It’s all part of the Harrogate International Festivals lineup, with a reputation for bringing bold ideas and brilliant people together.

This isn’t your average night out

Forget dinner and a movie. This is for people who want more than popcorn and explosions. Each Berwins Salon North night brings together three expert speakers who dig into ideas around science, psychology, and art—but in a way that’s totally down-to-earth. Each talk is just 25 minutes (so no zoning out), with breaks in between for a drink, a chat, or even a book signing.

This time around, the big question of the evening is: how does sound and listening shape the way we live? The guest speakers will be unpacking that from three completely different angles.

Jonathan Ainscough: breathing new life into opera and wellbeing

Let’s start with Jonathan Ainscough. He’s not just a director and performer—he’s leading a project with the English National Opera that helps people with Long Covid through singing. Yeah, actual opera as a form of therapy. Sounds a bit odd at first, but it’s proving to be powerful stuff.

Jonathan’s going to talk about how the arts—especially music and performance—can help people heal and feel more connected. If you've ever found a piece of music that just gets you, this one's for you.

Joanna Moncrieff: questioning what we think we know about depression

Then there’s Professor Joanna Moncrieff from University College London, a psychiatrist who’s been shaking things up big time. She led a major study that questioned the whole “low serotonin = depression” idea. You know, the reason so many people end up on antidepressants.

She’s not saying people shouldn’t take medication. But she is asking whether we’ve been told the full story. Her talk is perfect for anyone who’s ever felt unsure about mental health treatments—or just wants to understand what’s really going on when it comes to how we treat sadness and stress.

Dr Haru Yamada: the lost art of listening

The final speaker, Dr Haru Yamada, is a sociolinguist (someone who studies how language works in the real world), and she’s got a powerful story. After an accident left her almost deaf, she became obsessed with how we listen—not just with our ears, but with our attention.

She’s now made it her life’s mission to help people be better listeners. And honestly, who couldn’t use a bit of that? In a world of noise, scrolling, and half-heard conversations, Haru is here to show us why real listening might actually improve our health—and our relationships.

When, where, and how much?

Here’s the nitty-gritty:

• What: Berwins Salon North
• Where: The Crown Hotel, Harrogate
• When: Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 7:30pm
• Tickets: £18 (+ £2.50 booking fee)
• How to book: Visit harrogateinternationalfestivals.com or call the box office on 01423 562 303

What people are saying

Martin Whincup from Berwins Solicitors—the event’s sponsor—said,

“Berwins Salon North always tackles interesting and thought-provoking topics that get people talking and I’m sure this latest trio of guests will do just that.”

And Sharon Canavar, chief exec at Harrogate International Festivals, added:

“This is not your typical night out – expect to leave with your mind buzzing and your interest well and truly piqued!”

Why it’s worth going

Let’s be honest—our brains love a bit of novelty. Most of us spend our time stuck in the same routines. This is a chance to shake that up. You’ll hear new ideas, maybe challenge a few of your own beliefs, and probably come away thinking differently about the world. Also, there’s wine. And books. And very smart people who somehow make complex things feel simple.

So whether you're a curious local, a culture junkie, or just someone who likes good chat and better company—Berwins Salon North is your next go-to night out.