If Books Be the Food of Love, Then Read On. The Hay Festival 2016

If books be the food of love, then read on. When daffodils begin to peer, The Hay Festival is here; a literature and arts festival held in Hay-on-Wye, near Powys in Wales.

Starting in 1988, and through vaulted ambition, it grew and grew. First utilising the town's many bookshops and local school to become - what it is now - an internationally renowned event. In 2005, it moved to a new location just outside the town to accommodate the quarter of million visitors it now commands.

All the world‘s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances, and the festival is no different. Each year, writers, musicians , poets, lyricists, novelists, environmentalists  and scientists take to the stage to discuss new books and the issues of the day, and night. It is in this priceless transaction, that organisers hope, personal, political and educational revelations are made. It is a festival of inspiration; an invitation for dreams to become corporeal.

Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon 'em and this year's festival meets each category squarely with former Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis in attendance; singer Tom Jones; national treasure, Brian Blessed ; director Sam Mendes; comedian Marcus Brigstocke  and novelist Rose Tremain.

Along with celebrating Shakespeare's 400th anniversary, this year will continue to be a true feast of language - and discussion. With the upcoming EU Referendum  and US Election approaching, these topics will ensure there's enough meat and drink to go around.

The Hay Festival runs from the 26th May until the 5thJune and tickets are available at The Hay Festival website .

Image courtesy of the Hay Festival website: Marsha Arnold