Radio 3's Free Thinking 2012

"Women's leadership is more enabling, more participatory and more focused on problem solving". Listen now.

Festival events are broadcast on BBC Radio 3 weeknights through November.

Kevin Whately stars in Simon Armitage’s, new drama about four Olympic torchbearers, to be broadcast live from the BALTIC.

One of Israel's most influential novelists and thinkers discusses the changing situation in the Middle East.

Best known for his film Billy Elliot and his play The Pitmen Painters, Lee Hall discusses his writing, life and ideas.

If we're not alone in the Universe, will this fundamentally affect how humanity understands itself, and should we be prepared for the consequences?

BBC Radio 3 brings together leading thinkers for a weekend of provocative debate, new ideas, music and drama. Including Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, who delivers the keynote Free Thinking Lecture.

Radio 1 hosts inspirational talks for young people at The Free Thinking Festival.

Download in-depth interviews with artists, scientists and public figures.

Tickets for all events are free. To book call The Sage Gateshead on 0191 443 4661 or visit www.thesagegateshead.org/freethinking