Exclusive: First headliners revealed as Off the Shelf launches early ticket pre-sale!

We are incredibly excited to exclusively announce the biggest ticket pre-sale in our festival’s history! This year, we are doing things a little differently. We are releasing tickets to ten events ahead of our full programme reveal in August. Yes, you read that right: tickets for these select events are on sale now!

It is time to start filling your cultural calendar with world-class writing, gripping memoirs, and sharp political wit.

What’s in Store?

Prepare to be enthralled by a world number-one bestselling author, get the inside track from a legendary Olympian, and take a hilarious behind-the-scenes peek at those calling the shots in our tempestuous political times.

Our early line-up also brings you a much-loved veteran of the stand-up circuit, a fascinating history of Africa’s forgotten queens and warriors, and a powerful memoir detailing a sitting MP’s path to Parliament against seemingly insurmountable odds.

The Big Reveal:

Sir Bradley Wiggins – Five-time Olympic gold medallist.

Lee Child & Andrew Child – International bestselling author and University of Sheffield alumnus, appearing with his brother and co-author.

Marina Hyde – Inimitable Guardian columnist and political commentator.

Lucy Porter – Much-loved stand-up comic and writer.

Naz Shah – Member of Parliament for Bradford West, sharing her powerful personal memoir.

Sophie Raworth – Acclaimed journalist, newsreader, and broadcaster.

Paula Akpan – Journalist, writer, and historian uncovering Africa’s forgotten histories.

Paul Mason – Renowned journalist, writer, and filmmaker.

Colin Grant – Author, historian, and critic.

Dr Elizabeth Goldring – Award-winning art historian.

Don’t Wait – secure your seats today.

Looking for more? Don’t worry. In August, we’ll be unveiling our full festival programme with plenty more exciting announcements to come. Stay tuned!

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