Our monthly 'Meet the Haymaker' series shares stories of the change-makers at the heart of Hay Festival and the impact it has had on their lives. This month, get to know Ilze Barobs, a longtime supporter of Hay Festival Segovia, which celebrates its 20th edition this month.
What does Hay Festival Global mean to you?
Hay Festival Global means having the world brought to your doorstep. All you have to do is take the first step in. I have had the pleasure of participating in all twenty editions of Hay Festival Segovia, the three editions of Hay Forum Sevilla, Hay Alhambra as Artists Manager. I have also taken Spanish guests to Hay Festival in Wales on five occasions. I believe I have Hay Festival running in my veins – all the culture, networking, knowledge, connections, wisdom, along with the effort and dedication of so many to make it happen.
What’s your favourite Festival memory?
It is very difficult to choose from the multitude of memories and experiences, so I will say the first that pops into my head. I really enjoyed David Venerables’ AHEC performance where a wooden replica of Segovia’s Aqueduct was taken apart block by block and transported via a human chain made up of local Segovians, tourists, Hay Festival guests, passers-by, etc. to the Art School further up the main street. It was such a heartwarming, festive event to see people of all ages working together in such a fun way.
Have you ever changed your mind on something having been to a Hay Festival event?
More than changing my mind, I would say opening my mind to architecture. I used to limit my opinion about architecture to beautiful or interesting buildings you will find in a city. However, after attending Yvonne Farrell and Martha Thorne’s event in Seville, they made me realize that SO much thought about the environment, the local people, the use, the textures, and a million other details are considered before any bricks are laid. I appreciate buildings in a whole different way now.
Who was the best speaker or performer you saw on a Hay Festival stage?
Again, I can only say the first who pops up in my mind but has left a big impression on me. I will say Doris Lessing at the first edition of Hay Festival Segovia in 2006. To tell you the truth, I only remember bits and pieces of her event, but what I can still physically feel to this day, is her embrace as we said goodbye. I think she may have been the one to plant the Hay seed in me. She won the Nobel prize for literature the following year.
What advice do you have for a first-timer at the Festival?
Bring a notebook. You will want to jot down books, or other references, life changing sentences, people that leave an impression on you, etc. And don’t shy away from uncharted waters. Go to all kinds of events. You will not be disappointed.
Sum up Hay Festival Global in five words or less…
Eye opening and soul enriching.