THE theme of the annual Maldon Festival, inspired by current affairs, has been announced.

This year Maldon Festival will have the theme of coronation to celebrate King Charles III’s ceremony in May.

The event will feature music and artwork used to celebrate past coronations.

Much of the music planned is expected to be heard at King Charles III’s coronation ceremony.

The event usually focuses on classical music and incorporates jazz, soul, folk, world music and more. 

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

The festival’s artistic director, Colin Baldy said: “We look forward to extending the coronation celebrations and programming some of the much-loved coronation music from the past and looking at artwork inspired by King Charles’ accession.”

Festival organisers hope to make the most of the Coronation Big Help Out initiative by inviting locals from in and around Maldon to volunteer to help with this year’s event.

The Big Help Out initiative was launched by Chief Scout Bear Grylls with the aim of encouraging people to get involved in volunteering to support businesses, charities and organisations.

With there being an extra bank holiday on Monday, May 8 as part of the King’s coronation, Bear has proposed the day could be used as a day to volunteer.

Mr Baldy said: “We are looking for volunteers to help organise the festival, co-ordinating performers, setting up venues, welcoming audiences and helping with the marketing and publicity for the festival.

“We have great ambitions to build the 2023 festival up to pre-pandemic levels.

“To this end we are currently awaiting notification as to whether we have been awarded funding from Essex County Council to help build further outreach.

“This will enable us to offer more performance and exhibition opportunities to young people from across Essex.

"This year will be an exciting time to volunteer, with the festival offering the chance to meet new people and get involved in a vibrant music festival.”

The Maldon Festival runs from Friday, June 23, to Sunday, July 9.

To get involved in the festival, contact Bobbi Davy at bdavy@clear-group.co.uk or Colin Baldy at cbaldy55@gmail.com.