Hay Festival Global presents

Hay Festival - After Hours

23 Jul 2026

Hay Festival - After Hours

Venue: Old Rep

Duration: 3 hours *

Price: From £10.00

Experience Hay Festival – "the Woodstock of the mind" – live in Birmingham

Hay Festival After hours returns to the Old Rep for an evening of books, music and spoken word exploring the stories that shape who we are.

An evening of books, music and spoken word exploring the stories that shape who we are.
Step inside a life through the stories that shaped it. Every reader has books that they carry with them and in My Life in Books, Birmingham born Natalie Haynes will reveal the titles that have left the deepest impression on her reading life – the formative finds, cultural touchstones, guilty pleasures, and rediscoveries! Expect wit, wisdom and plenty of recommendations as one of the UK's most acclaimed authors and broadcasters takes us on a personal journey through her literary life.
What can George Michael’s life tell us about modern Britain? Award winning journalist and author Sathnam Sanghera explores the life, music and enduring legacy of one of Britain’s most beloved pop icons.

Drawing on personal reflection and cultural insight, Sanghera examines the themes that shaped George Michael’s story – fame, identity, sexuality, immigration and belonging – and reveals why his life and work continue to resonate. With humour, heart and fresh perspective, this conversation illuminates both the man behind the music and the Britain that shaped him. A must for fans, music lovers and anyone captivated by culture, identity and storytelling.

Slam winning Birmingham poet and performer Vignesh Venkataramaiah, aka Vig Poetry brings his distinctive spoken word to the evening, blending rhythm, storytelling and lyrical wordplay to explore identity, belonging and life between cultures.

This event is supported by The Unwin Charitable Trust 

Tickets can be purchased here

Show Dates and Times

DateTimeOn Sale
Thu, 23rd Jul7:30pm

*Please note running times are approximate