Damian Collins & Lucy Hughes-Hallett: Power Games
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Former MP Damian Collins and historian and biographer Lucy Hughes-Hallett come together to discuss the dynamics of power in politics from the perspective of influential figures in history.
Collins’ new book explores the life of Lloyd George, the ‘first modern’ Prime Minister, while Hughes-Hallett charts the meteoric rise and fall of George Villiers, the first Duke of Buckingham.
Join us for an engaging evening as these two esteemed authors delve into themes of political manoeuvring, historical impact and the interplay of power and ambition.
Damian Collins, MP for Folkestone and Hythe from 2010 to 2024, presents his new book, Rivals in the Storm. This insightful biography sheds light on the life and legacy of Lloyd George, examining his political career and enduring influence in British history. From his early days in Wales to his significant impact on social reform and foreign policy, Collins explores the complexities of Lloyd George’s leadership and the resonance of his legacy in contemporary politics.
Lucy Hughes-Hallett, celebrated for her historical and biographical narratives, will bring her expertise to the discussion with her latest work, The Scapegoat: The Brilliant Brief Life of the Duke of Buckingham. This book explores the dramatic rise and fall of George Villiers, the favourite of King James I. Buckingham was one of the most flamboyant and enigmatic figures at the heart of seventeenth-century royal and political life, transforming the influence of his beauty into immense wealth and power, becoming the first minister to two successive kings by the age of 33.
This event is a must for anyone interested in the intersection of history, politics and personal ambition.
Collins and Hughes-Hallett will share insights from their books on historical power plays, engaging in a dialogue about how past and present rivalries shape our world.
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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, ideas, reading and writing in many magical forms. This year's festival has been curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock. Sophie is our new Curator: Books, Ideas and Community.
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This year's festival is for everyone and we want to make it possible for more people than ever before to be able to come together and enjoy a packed festival. To make this possible we have introduced a £5 ticket. This is a no questions asked ticket for those that may be struggling to afford events and performances.
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We thank our Principal Sponsor Le Shuttle, and our Education Partner Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible.
Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Kent County Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.