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 Roger Wells, Hay Festival Head Steward.
What does Hay Festival Global mean to you?
I think it’s remarkable that a small rural town in the Welsh Borders - one I’m proud to call home - has given its name to Hay Festivals around the world, where ideas are explored, stories are told, and voices are heard.
For me though one of the greatest joys of the festival is connecting with old and new friends as each year, new and returning volunteer stewards come together from different backgrounds and parts of the country to form the friendly face and welcoming arms of the festival here in Hay. They’re an amazing team and such a massive part of what makes Hay, Hay.
What’s your favourite Festival memory?
One of my earliest visits was over 20 years ago, when I accompanied my then 10 year old son to hear Michael Rosen. While listening to Michael read one of his stories he laughed so much he fell off his chair.
Have you ever changed your mind on something having been to a Hay Festival event?
My mind is always expanded by what I see and hear at Hay Festival, so in that sense it’s constantly changing!
Who was the best speaker or performer you saw on a Hay Festival stage?
There are so many I could choose from, but one that particularly stands out is David Nott, author of War Doctor. His recounting of performing surgery in active war zones was spellbinding - delivered with such passion but also great humility. When he finished the entire audience rose as one to give him the most spine-tingling standing ovation I’ve ever witnessed.
What advice do you have for a first-timer at the Festival?
Go to at least a couple of completely random events - talks on subjects you know nothing about or by authors and artists you don’t recognise. You will always come away enriched, and these can be some of the most illuminating experiences of the festival.
Keep your eyes and ears open as you wander the site—you may well find yourself walking alongside one of your favourite authors!
And if you can bear to drag yourself away from the festival for a moment, pop into our charming Hay-on-Wye to experience the town that gave birth to the Hay Festival.
Sum up Hay Festival Global in five words or less…
Celebrating stories in full colour