Fairy tales, fantastical turns and flights of fancy: stories are often unbound by reality. From portentous dragonflies and forest jinns to a society created by children where adults are almost invisible, set your imagination free with three writers whose playfulness and pleasure in the unreal make for thrilling storytelling.

Featuring Rawi Hage, David Carlin, Shokoofeh Azar, Leza Lowitz, Han Yujoo.

The best criticism can be a compass to guide us through rugged cultural terrain, deepening our understanding of books, films, art and more. What does it take to become an effective critic? And how does one write criticism while producing one’s own art? Cast your eye across a range of artforms with these writers and hear how engaging with the works of others has enriched their own creativity.

Featuring Veronica Stigger, Abdul Aziz Rasjid, Steph Harmon, Kate Holden.

350 years ago when nutmeg was worth more than gold, the tiny island of Run played a dramatic role in Indonesia’s colonial history when it was ‘swapped’ by the British for Manhattan. Rich in precious spices, Run and the Banda Islands were the battleground of the legendary spice trade. 350 years on, these writers share their connections to the fabled Spice Islands.

Featuring Step Vaessen, Jan Russell, Ian Burnet.

“The walking of which I speak has nothing in it akin to taking exercise […] but is itself the enterprise and adventure of the day,” wrote Henry David Thoreau. Fall into step with three walkers and writers to examine the cogitation and creativity that come from a good constitutional.

Featuring Simon Armitage, Sergio Chejfec, Sophie Cunningham and Paula Constant.

You get one chance to make a first impression, and these authors did so with a splash! They’ll take us on the journey from unpublished hopeful to bestseller lists, film deals and award ceremonies, and dare to take a look ahead at meeting the expectations that come with a dazzling debut.

Featuring Taufiqurrahman, Leanne Ellul, Paul McVeigh and Ahmad Fuadi.

It’s often remarked that Balinese women are among the hardest working in the world. A patriarchal society and a seemingly endless cycle of temple rituals and communal obligations have imposed both heavy burdens and expectations on Balinese women. Join these leading Balinese authors and a literary researcher as they discuss the roles Balinese women writers play in empowering their sisters.

Featuring Ketut Yuliarsa, I Nyoman Darma Putra, Cokorda Sawitri and Oka Rusmini.

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In an archipelago of 17,000 islands, artistic expression takes a breathtaking array of forms. Join us for a taste of some of the most exciting dance, literature and visual art being created in Indonesia today, and a snapshot of artistic life for contemporary Indonesian creators.

Featuring Sarah Kanowski, Intan Paramadita, Eko Supriyanto and Kun Adnyana.

Sophal Ear escaped the Khmer Rouge due to his mother’s unflinching determination and moved to the US at the age of ten. He has overcome both genocide and poverty to become a world-renowned expert on war, peace, and development. From his own incredible journey to the big picture, he offers a unique perspective on rebuilding after war.

Featuring Sophal Ear and Drew Ambrose.

Anaesthesia is a modern miracle. But how much do we really know about what happens to us on the operating table? Is pain still pain if we are not awake to feel it? Writer and journalist Kate Cole-Adams melds science and philosophy with personal experiences to explore the gift of oblivion and the mystery of unconsciousness.

Featuring Kate Cole-Adams, Sophie McDonald.

Did that Minion just say terima kasih? French-Indonesian animated film director and voice actor Pierre Coffin is the man behind the little yellow characters from the Despicable Me franchise, emblazoned on everything from children’s clothing to public minibuses across the country. Join Pierre for behind-the-scenes stories from a fascinating career in film.

You can also listen to our podcasts on Spotify and Apple Music!