Saturday, May 6, 2023

King for a Day - and a Lifetime!

Today was the long-awaited Coronation for King Charles III.

Since today's event was the first British Coronation in 70 years, it was a unique event. All types of music were part of the service, and British composer Andrew Lloyd Webber (famous for CATS, PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, and EVITA) wrote an anthem specifically for the service.

Following the Coronation service at Westminster Abbey, highlights of the Coronation weekend include a star-studded concert at Windsor Castle, a nationwide series of street parties nicknamed "The Coronation Big Lunch," and a national volunteering campaign scheduled for Monday branded as "The Big Help Out."

According to the New York Times, "On Monday, when many Britons will take advantage of a one-off May 8 holiday, Buckingham Palace hopes that some will undertake volunteer work, Charles, as Prince of Wales, emphasized volunteer service through his charities and views that as a major legacy of his Coronation."

King Charles's face will appear on more than coins and stamps. There were souvenirs galore created for the Coronation featuring the likenesses of both King Charles and Queen Camilla...everything from a stuffed teddy bear wearing a crown and other royal attire from British retailer John Lewis to plates, mugs, tea tins, flags, and more.

With all the pomp and pageantry, is the monarchy something the regular Brit cares about? Only time will tell, based in large part on what King Charles III actually accomplishes during his lifetime as King.


Image Credit: Debbie Laskey.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Thank you for your comment!