Festival reception and drinks

A chance for festival attendees to relax, continue the debates informally and enjoy a drink courtesy of Blue Orchid Hotels, with the support of the vice chancellor of the University of Buckingham. There will short speeches to highlight the importance of public discussion and open debate, introduced by Academy of Ideas director Claire Fox.

Festival reception and drinks

Festival reception and drinks

We’re delighted to feature a special performance from The Hooligans, who specialise in traditional Irish music – and have played at leading venues and festivals across the UK, supporting headlines acts including Slade, Heather Small and Toploader. The band’s lightning-fast jigs and reels, and slower vocal ballads and airs, are guaranteed to get your foot-tapping and make you smile.

Festival reception and drinks

Festival reception and drinks

The Hooligans feature Maeve Halligan on fiddle/keyboards and vocals. Classically trained, Maeve now concentrates on traditional music – and plays a fiddle previously owned by her great-grandfather, Martin Halligan, of Swinford in County Mayo. Maeve is joined by the regular Hooligans line-up – Liam Halligan on guitar and Lewis Naughton on cajon.

Festival reception and drinks

Festival reception and drinks

Drinks will be held at 55 Broadway SW1H 0BD – which is above St James’ Park Underground Station, a short walk from Church House. Follow this link for directions.

Festival reception and drinks

Festival reception and drinks

Festival reception and drinks