Shirley Ballas to Participate in Ilkley Literature Festival
- Shirley Ballas, a British ballroom dancer, is set to join the lineup of stars at the Ilkley Literature Festival.
- The festival will feature various big names in its events, including Shirley Ballas.
- Attendees can look forward to the engaging presence of Shirley Ballas at the festival this year.
The Ilkley Literature Festival is gearing up for an exciting lineup this year, featuring notable figures such as Shirley Ballas, Katie Atkinson, and Julian Clary. Organizers have described the event as an "epic celebration of books, reading, and writing," promising a diverse array of discussions and presentations. Shirley Ballas, the head judge of BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, will make her festival debut with her new murder mystery novel, *Dance to the Death*. Additionally, acclaimed author Alan Hollinghurst will be in attendance to promote his first book in over a decade, titled *Our Evenings*. Yorkshire's own Katie Atkinson, known for her detective novels, will also participate, discussing her latest work featuring the beloved character Jackson Brodie. Festival director Erica Morris expressed enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the importance of welcoming "big names and big ideas." This year's theme, "Democracies in Danger," will coincide with the upcoming 2024 election, featuring discussions led by journalists, politicians, and experts on the current state of democracy and politics. Moreover, the festival will delve into the implications of Artificial Intelligence on human creativity, with a series of events focused on the ethical considerations surrounding technology. The Ilkley Literature Festival promises to be a thought-provoking gathering for literature enthusiasts and a platform for critical discussions on contemporary issues.